Do we really need supplements such as vitamins, antioxidants, minerals, and important nutrients? If you live a healthy lifestyle you may not need supplements; if you don't you likely need supplements. You can overdo supplements and megavitamins have their downsides. Toxic exposures are a good reason to consider supplementation. The best sources of antioxidants, essential nutrients, etc. are from foods. When we are ill, our need for supplements goes up and we often don't eat well...nutrition is especially important from supplements.