Vitamins are essential nutrients our bodies need for a wide array of health functions. If you eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, you’re on the right path to getting the vitamins you need for optimal health—that’s because plant-based foods tend to be great natural sources of vitamins. For example, spinach is a great way to get in vitamin A, and many whole grains are good sources of B vitamins such as folate. And let’s not forget oranges and other citrus fruits, which are a rich in vitamin C.

The term “supplements” refers to vitamins and mineral supplements, as well as amino acids such as L-carnitine, antioxidants such as coenzyme CoQ10, and also herbals like echinacea. You may also find supplement formulas called multivitamins which contain both vitamins and other nutrients necessary for wellness.

Taking vitamins and supplements is a good “insurance policy” to fill in any dietary gaps. Even if your diet chock full of superfoods that are brimming with nutrition, it’s likely that you’re missing out on some important nutrients. For example, unless you eat fatty fish regularly, you will need to supplement with omega-3 to get the heart and brain health benefits of fish oil. Beyond that, you can also supplement as part of your pursuit of a specific health goal