It’s no wonder we’re pretty confused when it comes to purchasing vitamins. For example, we have been told that a good vitamin supplement would increase our energy levels. In fact, we’re told this all the time: in magazine articles, television media, the plethora of vitamin-boosting infomercials, websites, and pop-up ads on the Internet.

So when you arrive at the vitamin store, you’ve already completely lost (and you may have completely forgotten) why you’re even there, ending like many of us, just not taking any vitamins at all because it all is … so confusing!

Vitamin World, Vitamin Gallery, The Vitamin Patch, Vitamins for Vegetarians – the huge range of stores, online or near you, all beckon, promising and renewed. If you have a health problem or complaint known to man, you will find a good vitamin supplement (or 12 to 15 of them) to relieve your suffering right away.

The good thing about vitamins (just one of many) is that they are actually mostly ‘natural’, with very few harmful or otherwise irritating toxic chemicals in them.

Vitamins, to put it plainly, are good for us because they are largely extracted from natural plants and minerals. That is the basic fact. And the benefits are countless; it’s hard to take the “wrong” vitamin, and it certainly can’t hurt you, so why not give it a try? But remember: take everything in moderation.

Beta-carotene, for example, is thought to protect against cancer and heart disease. It can dramatically boost the immune system and is a powerful antioxidant, controlling the “free radicals” we’ve all heard of and preventing damage to cells that lead to premature disease and aging.

Biotin metabolizes proteins, fats and carbohydrates. It also aids in energy production, and there is some evidence that it can help people with diabetes by keeping glucose levels low. Other benefits include healthy hair, skin, and nails, and the reduction of fatigue, heartburn, and some allergies.

Folic acid is famous among women trying to conceive and women who are already pregnant. Other benefits include keeping your heart strong, giving you more energy, and helping to prevent Alzheimer’s disease.

Vitamins and minerals are now seriously recognized and play a role in the health and vitality of every organ in the body, from skin and bones to the nervous and immune systems, right down to the brain. Vitamins can lower cholesterol, help wounds heal better, increase sperm count and make you more resistant to cold and flu, asthma, cataracts and even gum disease.

Again, you really can’t go wrong with vitamins. Look beyond the chic marketing and packaging. The key is to focus on your specific condition and go straight to the natural remedy. Don’t get distracted by all the by all the hype; all you really need to do is keep it clear and simple.