WINCHESTER, VA - People tend to think they can get their vitamins by simply eating natural foods, but dietitians say that's not the right way to think. In fact, your health may be more at risk if you don't take your daily dose of vitamins.

The effects of vitamins have been questioned before. Many say they turn to natural foods.

However, a registered dietitian at the Winchester Medical Group, Susan Lessar, says it can only improve your health depending on your age and gender.

"Women's multivitamin would have additional iron in it versus men's multivitamin would have possibly additional Lutein to help with prostate health. It's just dependent on your age and gender," says Lessar.

Although eating natural vitamins can help, Lessar says the average American doesn't have a balanced diet and that's why she says vitamins are important.

"The best strategy is really the academy of nutrition and dietetics recommend that you eat a wide variety of foods to cover your basics so then you wouldn't need a supplement. On the other hand, I am a registered dietitian and I know that I don't eat the way I'm supposed to every single day so therefore, I do take a daily multivitamin," adds Lessar.

Margaret Sine takes one multivitamin per day, and she says it has greatly helped her.

"I'm sure you get better nutrients from your natural foods, but sometimes, like in my case, you need that extra boost," says Sine.

While vitamins are not proved to prevent major diseases, dietitians say they can benefit you in many ways.

To find out what supplement suits your body best, talk to your local doctor or pharmacist.