What You Need to Know About Multivitamins

Multipill Packs

What they are: Individual daily packets that hold several pills designed to work together.

Benefits: You can get higher doses of vitamin D, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are often not present in basic multivitamins. Try GNC Wellbeing be-Wholesome Health & Beauty Vitapak ($60 for 30 packs, gnc.com).

Keep in mind: Some have megadoses, which in the case of vitamins A, D, and E can be toxic, says Davis Liu, a family physician in Roseville, California. Check the website of the Institute of Medicine (iom.edu/dri) for the maximum levels of vitamins and minerals that can be safely consumed.