A to Z of Health: An Evidence-Based Narrative Review of Multivitamin-Multimineral and Nutraceutical Supplementation.

Multivitamin and mineral (MVM) supplements are dietary products that contain a combination of essential vitamins and minerals, and sometimes additional bioactive compounds. They are used to meet daily nutrient requirements, support physiological functions, and address increased nutritional needs, including in special populations. This narrative review summarizes the physiological roles, dietary sources, and deficiency symptoms of essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, recommended dietary allowances (RDAs) and tolerable upper intake levels (ULs) of vitamins and minerals according to the Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN) are included. The review included details from various clinical studies, including randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, and cohort studies on MVM supplementation, with special emphasis on cardiovascular, endocrine (especially diabetic mellitus), cancer, cognitive, skeletal, immune, and ocular health outcomes. It also highlights evidence in special populations such as pregnant and lactating women, infants, children, adolescents, older adults, and athletes. Furthermore, evidence related to nutraceuticals such as omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, curcumin, ginseng, brahmi, ashwagandha, and coenzyme Q10 is included. The review covers the safety and toxicity aspects of MVM supplements; however, limited evidence is available on drug-nutrient interactions. Overall, MVM supplements, along with nutraceuticals, may play a valuable role in targeted health optimization, especially in populations at risk of deficiencies. Standardized formulations, long-term safety evaluation, and integration of personalized nutrition approaches are critical to enhancing their clinical and public health impact.