Multivitamins

Do You Really Need a Multivitamin? Here’s How to Know - About Health | Blog

If you’ve ever stood in the supplement aisle wondering whether a multivitamin could make a real difference, you’re not alone. For many Kiwis living busy, active lives the idea of a little “nutritional insurance” sounds appealing. But do you really need one - or is a balanced diet enough?

The short answer is: it depends. Of course, a healthy balanced diet is always the best way to get your basic nutrients, yet there are times when a multivitamin can provide extra support for energy levels, immune support, and overall wellbeing. Let’s look at how you can tell if a multivitamin might be right for you.

First Things First: Lifestyle Comes Before Supplements

It’s easy to think of a multivitamin as a shortcut, but the truth is, there is no supplement that can undo a poor diet, lack of sleep, or chronic stress. If you’re feeling run-down, the first place to look is the basics:

Are you getting enough good quality sleep?
Is your diet varied and colourful with mostly unprocessed foods?
Are you drinking enough water?
Are you moving your body regularly?
Are you giving yourself time to rest and relax?

Supplements are just that: supplementary. You still need to do the basic work of a healthy diet and lifestyle most of the time. A multivitamin can help cover small nutritional gaps, and give you extra support in times of need, but it won’t replace the power of whole foods, rest, and movement.

Elder couple bike riding

Why New Zealanders Might Consider a Multivitamin

Now that we’ve reinforced that diet and lifestyle need to make up your foundation of health, let’s look at some reasons you might find a multivitamin helpful, even if you’re generally healthy:

Our soils are naturally low in certain minerals.

1. New Zealand soils are known to be low in selenium, iodine, and chromium. These are important minerals for supporting normal immune function, metabolism, and overall balance. Even with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, our local produce may not always deliver enough of these nutrients.

You feel your energy levels could use some support.

2. Most of us are often busy with work, family, sport, or other commitments, which whilst fulfilling, can leave you feeling tired. A multivitamin containing active B-group vitamins can support the body’s normal energy pathways.

You want consistency for immune support.

3. Seasonal changes, busy routines, and less than ideal diets can sometimes leave your immune system stretched. A daily multivitamin can help provide steady nutrient support for your natural defences.

Your diet isn’t always as varied as you’d like.

4. Let’s be honest — some days end up heavier on toast and coffee than fresh fruits and vegetables. A multivitamin helps give peace of mind that you’re covering the bases on those days.

What to Look for in a Multivitamin

Like all supplements, not all multivitamins are created equal. Here are a few things worth checking before you choose:

Designed for New Zealand adults – You want something designed to meet your needs. Formulations for Kiwis should account for the minerals our soils are lacking.
Contains active forms of vitamins – Active B-group vitamins are more readily usable by the body.
Includes Vitamin K2 (MK-7) – This form of vitamin K is important for the maintenance of normal bone health.
Quality assurance – Look for products manufactured under GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) standards, to ensure consistency and safety.

A Closer Look: Multiva Advanced

Multiva Advanced is a multivitamin designed specifically for New Zealand adults , here’s what sets it apart:

Locally designed and manufactured – Made here in New Zealand, under strict GMP standards.
Tailored to meet New Zealand adults needs – Includes selenium, iodine, and chromium, reflecting the nutrients our soils are often low in.
Active B-group vitamins – Supporting normal energy metabolism.
Vitamin K2 (MK-7) – A valuable addition to support bone health.
Balanced blend of all essential vitamins and minerals – to help you feel your best and keep living the life you love.

Multivitamin supplement NZ

Do You Really Need One?

Here’s the honest answer: not everyone needs a multivitamin. If you feel great, eat a wide variety of fresh, whole foods every day, get quality sleep, manage stress well, and live an active lifestyle, your nutrient intake may already cover you needs.

But life is rarely that straight forward. Work pressures, family demands, seasonal bugs, and the composition of our locally grown food can all impact your nutritional reserves. In many cases, a well-chosen multivitamin may give you reassurance and support so you can keep showing up for the activities you love.

The Takeaway

A multivitamin isn’t a magic bullet. But for New Zealand adults living active, busy lives, it can be a valuable way to support consistent nutrient intake. Think of it as an insurance policy — one that works best when paired with good food, regular rest, exercise, and time for yourself.

If you’re considering adding a multivitamin to your routine, look for one that’s designed for New Zealand conditions, manufactured to high standards, and contains the right balance of essential vitamins and minerals. And remember, your health journey is personal — if you’re unsure, talking to a health professional can help guide your choices.

September 3, 2025 Categories: Multivitamins By: Admin