Finding the Right Balance A large number of multivitamin formulas actually upset the balance of vitamins and minerals, rather than improving it. Key features to look for in any multi-nutrient formula include: Avoiding high doses of retinol (vitamin A), the inclusion of natural beta carotene which contains both the trans and cis-beta-carotene, a complete vitamin E complex with all eight fractions of the molecule and a balanced ratio of zinc and copper- a ratio of about 10:1 is best