Can I take vitamin supplements instead of eating healthy at college?

Daphne Oz

Health Education

Be warned that vitamins cannot take the place of food. Just because you take a multivitamin, or five, daily, does not mean you can shovel foods devoid of nutrition into your body and expect to stay healthy. Supplements are called that because they fill in for deficiencies in your day-to-day diet. They are in no way meant to replace a healthy eating regimen.

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The Dorm Room Diet: The 10-Step Program for Creating a Healthy Lifestyle Plan That Really Works

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Joan Salge Blake, MS, RD on behalf of Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

Nutrition & Dietetics

Unfortunately, a supplement isn't going to correct an unhealthy diet, nor provide energy for your body. While you may get some of the nutrients you need, a supplement doesn't contain calories so will not fuel your mind and body.

A well-balanced diet should be able to give you all the vitamins that you need plus provide you with delicious energy to help you ace your studies.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.