Nutrition experts agree that the smartest way to get the vitamins and minerals you need is to eat smart.

Supplements are no substitute for a balanced diet.

But as we age our ability to absorb some nutrients changes, and under certain conditions, taking a supplement IS recommended.

If you decide to take a vitamin and mineral supplement, here are some smart tips:

• Look for the DIN (Drug Identification Number) or GP (General Product) number. This designates that the product was approved by Health Canada.
  
• Make sure the expiry date has not passed.
  
• The price of the supplement is not necessarily indicative of how effective it is. Your body cannot tell the difference between "natural" vitamins and synthetic (man-made) vitamins, so there is no need to spend more on “natural” vitamins. There is one exception - vitamin E: your body absorbs the natural form better than the synthetic version.
  
• More is not better. Fat-soluble vitamins such as A and D can be toxic in high doses. Consume no more than the recommended daily dose.
  
• Tell your doctor about the supplements you are taking – some can interfere with certain medications.