ABSTRACT
Current research indicates that health benefits which go beyond the repletion of potential deficiency states can be derived from vitamins and minerals. In most instances, these benefits may be conveyed by intakes either at or above recommended daily allowances. For some of these health benefits the scientific evidence base is convincing, while for others, support for potential benefits is just emerging. In many cases the association between a particular vitamin or mineral and its beneficial effect is derived from nutritional epidemiological studies. Intervention studies are needed in many promising areas in order to demonstrate a conclusive nutrient-benefit link. Additionally, in the case of multivitamin supplementation, further investigation is needed in order to determine and characterize the nutrient or nutrient interactions which produce a particular beneficial effect. What follows describes the emerging benefits of vitamins and minerals, and the scientific support for each.
