Millions of Americans take vitamin and mineral supplements every day. Most experts agree, however, that if one eats a healthy diet, there is probably no need to take daily supplements. Mineral and vitamin supplements cannot, completely make up for an unhealthy diet, such as one high in fat or low in fiber. Certain groups of people with special needs may benefit from taking supplements, however. These groups include pregnant women, frequent aspirin takers, heavy drinkers, and smokers.

Persons with special nutritional needs are advised to include in their dietary supplements the following vitamins and minerals: vitamin A (promotes good vision, healthy skin and mucous membranes and acts as an antioxidant), vitamin C (promotes healthy gums and teeth, aids in iron absorption, maintains normal connective tissue), vitamin E (aids the formation of red blood cells, acts as an antioxidant), folic acid (reduces the...