Vitamin and mineral supplements.

Some vitamin and mineral supplements have proved to be clinically useful in preventing various diseases and health problems. Many widely used supplements, however, have shown no benefit when carefully studied. There are also several disease states and medications that should prompt the physician to recommend certain preventive supplements. This article gives an evidence-based look at the latest information in this area. Primary care physicians should be familiar with the latest research so they can be proactive in advising patients about proper use of vitamins and minerals.