We all know we need a healthy mix of foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals to ensure our bodies work well and stay fit. But, what we know and what we do are often two different things. Considering this, many turn to multi-vitamins to provide them with the nutrients they need on a daily basis. And while this is a good idea, vitamins are not meant to replace food, they're meant to supplement it. The best way to take these supplements is to remember what they are.

Choosing to take a multi-vitamin or other supplement can be a very good idea under a whole host of circumstances, however. In this fast-paced world, it's very difficult for every person to get every vitamin and mineral necessary every day. Inasmuch, supplemental vitamins can serve a very good purpose when included in a smart diet. In the right doses, supplements can be a good idea even for those who strive to get their vitamins and minerals through their foods on a daily basis.

And while anyone can benefit from vitamins, certain people truly need them on a regular basis. People who are on very strict diets, for example, often cannot get everything they need from food. Pregnant women, the elderly and children, too, often find it very difficult to consume what's needed from food alone. So, here's where taking vitamins can really help.

Knowing you need to take a vitamin to supplement the foods you eat and actually doing it are two different things. The smart vitamin taker remembers they are "supplements" and not replacements and tries on a more or less regular basis to eat what's needed as well. This means a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy and so on. It's a simple fact natural sources are the better route to go, but supplements can make that process a lot easier.

Setting out a diet plan that includes vitamin and mineral rich foods is smart. But even with the best laid plans, it's often hard to get everything a person needs on a daily basis, so here are some things to consider when taking supplements:

* Be certain to read the label. If you know you only need a supplement for a specific vitamin or mineral, take that. If multi-vitamins are needed, find one that offers a good balance of vitamins and minerals as well. Read the instructions carefully.

* Stay away from mega-doses. You want to take 100 percent of the daily recommended dose, not 5,000 times it. Vitamins are needed by the body to function correctly, but if the necessary amount is exceeded by too much, they can in fact be dangerous in some cases.

* Make sure the USP symbol is on the label. This means the supplement has met certain standards for strength, purity and so on.

* Read expiration dates. Vitamins lose their potency over time. Don't buy products that are past their prime dates.

* Read and follow instructions for storage. Improper storage can lessen the vitamin's ability to work correctly.

Vitamin and mineral supplements are almost always a good idea for anyone who does not get a balanced diet on a regular, daily basis. And even then they can help the body function as it is supposed to.