Which group is NOT listed as a candidate for vitamin or mineral supplementation?

• A. Coronary artery disease
• B. Elderly
• C. Diets over 3000 kcal/day
• D. Pregnant women

Answer: (C)

Supplements are used to address gaps in micronutrient intake that come from increased needs, restricted or poor-quality diets, or impaired absorption. The elderly often face reduced absorption or intake of nutrients like vitamin B12, calcium, and vitamin D, so supplementation is commonly recommended. Pregnant women require extra folic acid and iron to support fetal development and maternal health. A diet rich in calories by itself does not indicate a need for vitamins or minerals—calorie quantity doesn’t reliably reflect micronutrient adequacy, and someone can have ample calories yet be deficient in certain nutrients if their diet is not varied. So, consuming more than 3000 kcal daily isn’t a standard trigger for supplementation, unlike the other groups mentioned.