Nutritionists: These 7 foods can help replace multivitamins

People don't always need to turn to dietary supplements to get the vitamins and minerals their bodies need every day, nutrition experts cited by health.com say. Many important micronutrients can be obtained through a varied and balanced diet by choosing foods that also provide protein, fiber and healthy fats.

Food works together with other compounds

Experts emphasize that food is not simply a "delivery system" for vitamins and minerals. The nutrients found in food interact with other natural substances that help the body absorb and use them more effectively. For this reason, a varied diet can in many cases be more valuable than relying on a single multivitamin tablet per day.

Multivitamins still matter for some

This doesn't mean supplements are unnecessary for everyone. At certain life stages or in specific situations — such as during pregnancy, when following a highly restrictive diet, or when a nutrient deficiency has been diagnosed — multivitamins and other supplements can play an important role in maintaining health.

Everyday food can cover part of the need

For most people outside these special circumstances, however, everyday foods can help cover a significant share of the body's nutrient needs, reducing reliance on additional pills. Experts recommend evaluating the variety of one's diet before buying multivitamins, since the necessary nutrients are often already available through everyday food.