Do you really need multivitamins daily? Kidney doctor calls it ‘expensive pee’ and clears the air

Most people begin with multivitamins thinking they may not be getting enough from their food. This especially holds true for those on a diet who believe taking supplements would prevent nutritional deficiencies.

But Dr Arjun Sabharwal, UK & India-trained kidney doctor, rubbished the same in his new video on Instagram.

Are multivitamins useful?

“Most people in India take a multivitamin ‘just in case.’ But the best research globally says something very different,” he said, clarifying, “Healthy adults don’t need daily multivitamins, but a diversified diet which has all the nutrients.” This is exactly what he tells his patients all the time.

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A post shared by Dr Arjun Sabharwal - MBBS MRCP(UK) Nephrology (@drarjunsabharwal)

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He shared that multivitamins don’t do anything extra for the body. “No extra immunity. No cancer protection. No heart protection. Just expensive pee.” And he added that it’s not just his opinion but facts mentioned in the world’s top medical journals.

What research says about multivitamins?

“JAMA (2022) reviewed all the evidence and found that multivitamins don’t prevent heart disease or cancer, and most healthy adults simply don’t benefit. NEJM (2025) also concluded that micronutrients should come from food, not tablets — except in people who actually have a deficiency,” he stated.

When is it useful to have multivitamins?

Talking about deficiencies, Dr Sabharwal acknowledged that Vitamin D, B12, and folate deficiencies are common in India. This is due to a plant-based diet, bioavailability, and low sun exposure.

Supplements make sense if you’re in a high-risk group:

• Pregnancy
• Elderly
• Strict vegetarians
• Poor appetite
• Proven deficiency

And for others, he suggested it is better to have a diversified diet as compared to multivitamins. He also recommended having targeted supplements that are need-based along with an improved diet, concluding his video by saying: “Fix the diet. Don’t fix fear.”

This shows that supplements, whose demand has risen over the years, can never replace a healthy and balanced diet. To efficiently meet your body’s requirement for vitamins and minerals, consume leafy green vegetables, fruits, grains, nuts, dairy, and fish. It’s also best to avoid ultra-processed foods to stay healthy in the long run.

FAQs on Health Benefits of Multivitamins

1. Are multivitamins necessary for everyone?

Healthy adults generally don't need daily multivitamins if they have a diversified diet. A varied diet can provide all necessary nutrients.

2. Do multivitamins boost immunity?

No, multivitamins do not provide extra immunity. They are not a substitute for a balanced diet.

3. Can multivitamins prevent cancer or heart disease?

Research shows that multivitamins do not prevent cancer or heart disease. A healthy lifestyle and diet are more beneficial.

4. When should one consider taking multivitamins?

Multivitamins are useful for those with specific deficiencies or in high-risk groups like pregnant women, the elderly, strict vegetarians, or those with poor appetite.

5. What is the best way to meet vitamin and mineral needs?

The best way to meet nutritional needs is through a diet rich in leafy greens, fruits, grains, nuts, dairy, and fish, while avoiding ultra-processed foods.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.