Taking daily vitamin and mineral supplements is a common practice among Canadians, however healthy eating and eating a balanced diet is more important than taking antioxidants, vitamins & minerals in pill or powder form. Healthy foods offer much more than supplements ever could. Some of the benefits you get by including healthy foods in your diet include...

VARIETY - you need over 50 nutrients daily for good health and eating a balanced diet will ensure that you get these nutrients.
FIBRE, carbohydrates, essential fatty acids & proteins are found in healthy foods and are not found in supplements
RESEARCH has shown that eating 5-10 servings of Fruits and Vegetables daily offers many health benefits (i.e., cancer protection, heart healthy)
ENJOYMENT - food tastes good!

There are times however when supplements are necessary. Lifestyles, life stages and health conditions can all affect a person's nutrient requirement. Supplements MAY be needed for the following conditions:

• Serious digestive disorders (i.e., Crohn's Disease)
• Poor appetites
• Women planning a pregnancy; pregnant women
• Osteoporosis
• Some vegans
• Restrictive diets (i.e, due to allergies)

If any of those apply to you it's best for you to talk with your doctor or dietitian for advice.