Just 14% of Britons are taking a 7p supplement that could boost their immunity and help them fight off infection, a survey suggests.
The poll of 1,500 people for Saga Health Insurance found 73% took daily supplements and 65% did so to support their immune system.
However, only 14% took vitamin A, which can aid vision, growth, immunity and healthy skin.
Foods that contain vitamin A include cheese, eggs, oily fish, fortified low-fat seed spreads and milk and yoghurt.
Liver products such as pâté are also a rich source, although the NHS advises that eating it more than once a week may lead to consuming too much vitamin A.
London GP Dr Hana Patel said: “Most of us should get all the nutrients we need from having a balanced diet, although sometimes we may need to take extra supplements depending on our lifestyle.
“Different types of vitamins and minerals support different bodily functions and health. These can range from helping to fight off illness and infections to regulating hormones and aiding circulation and digestive health.
“If there is a specific health concern you want to focus on, through some personal research or consultation with your doctor, you can find the most suitable individual supplement to help.”
The survey also found that 28% of people took supplements to support their mental wellbeing and manage everyday stress.
Some 44% took a multivitamin each day, making this the most popular supplement choice among the nation.
Dr Patel added: “The main reason for taking supplements is to support and reduce any nutritional gaps in our diet or lifestyle.
“If you want to start taking supplements to maintain overall health and provide your body with additional nutrition, multivitamins might be the better option.
“However, individual vitamins may help you combat specific deficiencies, providing you with the optimal nutrients.”
