While it is true that exercise increases the rate of metabolic reactions which are oxidative in nature, it is also true that our body adapts by increasing the amount of enzymes needed to support the reactions. We shouldn’t need to take any additional vitamins, provided we are eating an adequate and balanced diet. You can visit www.mypyramid.gov to obtain a diet plan tailored to your gender, age and physical activity level. A daily multivitamin is nice “insurance” and may help fill those occasional gaps in your diet. If you feel well, are otherwise healthy, and don’t feel excessively tired and lethargic, chances are you are meeting your dietary needs. Remember that you need adequate rest and fluids between bouts of intense exercise to help your body recover adequately.

-Aurora Buffington, MS, RD