Large-scale dietary intake surveys from North America have shown that many vitamins and essential minerals are underconsumed by the general population relative to recommended levels. People with certain medical conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and inflammatory bowel disease are at increased risk for these and other micronutrient shortfalls. Older adults, persons in socioeconomically disadvantaged populations, and persons taking certain medications have increased or otherwise unique nutritional needs that require clinical consideration. Lifestyle choices and behaviors such as alcohol abuse and adherence to certain diets (eg, vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free) also can increase the risk for dietary gaps. Dietary supplementation might be necessary for some patients to ensure adequate intake of vitamins and minerals. A daily multivitamin along with dietary, counseling is a practical and effective strategy to address dietary gaps in at-risk populations.
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