What Is The Best Multivitamin Supplement – Which One Should You Take

I try to get all my nutrients from whole foods instead of a supplement form, but I’ve realized that isn’t always such an easy task. Sometimes, when you have an extremely busy week and don’t have time to get all the important nutrients in your body, a multivitamin is a great solution and not time-consuming. I started researching what the best multivitamin supplement and came up with a  winner!

Even when I’m on top of my game with whole foods and cooking, it can still be tough to get all the right nutrients.

You definitely don’t want to overdo it and depend on them or use multivitamins as a meal replacement.

So that you don’t get confused about Vitamin D on my list. I think this is one of the most important Vitamins you need to take, but I actually take it separately from my regular Multivitamin.

Vitamin D is best taken along with Calcium, so I make sure I consume it that way.

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Calcium interferes with absorbing many other ingredients and is on my list of things you shouldn’t have in a multivitamin. This is the reason I take Vitamin D and Calcium separately.

Although some of you may have been going through your life and are unaware, you are very low on certain nutrients. This could be a reason why you are always tired or maybe getting sick too often.

In my opinion, most multivitamins on the market are actually pretty useless.

This is partly because they are missing some key ingredients. Although even when they have those ingredients included, they are mixed with other ingredients that completely cancel out the benefits.

The reality is most of us have no clue what we should or shouldn’t be taking in a multivitamin.

Marketing or a really good sale is usually the reason people purchase.

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VITAMIN D IS VERY IMPORTANT BUT I TAKE IT SEPARATE

Yes, I take it separately, but I didn’t want to leave it out since many companies have it in their multivitamins.

Although most multivitamins don’t include enough  D and Calcium, which are best taken together,  D has powerful effects on your body and is an essential vitamin.

I would say this is the most common vitamin people are deficient (not having enough) in.

According to reviews published by the Journal of The American Osteopathic Association, almost 1 billion people are deficient in Vitamin D.

This is because of sunscreen and low levels of Vitamin D from diet sources. You may be wondering what sunscreen has to do with it.

The other main way to get  D besides a supplement is by exposing your skin to the sunlight. When you expose your skin to the sunlight, this is the most natural way, but you don’t have to burn or tan.

I usually stay in the sun for about half the time it takes my skin to burn, which is enough.

The foods you eat are where your body gets most of its vitamins and minerals, but only a few foods naturally contain Vitamin D.

These foods that contain  D do not have high levels, which makes it almost impossible to get the right amount your body needs from food sources. Examples would be fatty fish and Egg Yolks.

This is why I think  D is the most important ingredient found in a multivitamin. If you want to buy it separately, I highly recommend this one I take……

 

If you are worried about exposing your skin to the sun, this is your best option by far and the healthy way. You can take  D by itself if you are having trouble absorbing it in your body; there are some options.

If the sun option is not something you want to risk, you can take it under your tongue instead of swallowing it.

I recommend getting tested at some point to see what your Vitamin D levels are.

You should do this every 3-6 months to see if your levels are changing and if you need to increase or decrease.

This could be life-changing if you have always had deficient levels and are unaware.

Personally, that is well worth it for me to pay for a test knowing It could change my overall health. Most people can take this Vitamin, but there are a few cases where you shouldn’t. This is another reason why I think it’s great to get tested because your Doctor can recommend if you’re someone that shouldn’t.

There are two types of  D supplements.

They are vitamin D2(ergocalciferol) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). Both types are good for bone health.

Vitamin D helps your body absorb Calcium which is very important for bone health. This is why both of them should be taken together.

If you are low and deficient, you may have some back pain or bone pain. There are many other signs you may be deficient in fatigue/tiredness, bone loss, depression, muscle pain, or even hair loss.

Fortunately, this is very easy to fix by blood tests and then carving out a few seconds of your day to take a few pills to increase your levels.

Iron

This should be in your multivitamin, but not everyone needs the same amount.

Iron is great for healthy red blood cells, which transport oxygen to the body’s tissues and remove carbon dioxide from your body.

If you are a vegan or a vegetarian, you may want to make sure your multivitamin has Iron because eating red meat is typically the way to get enough in your body.

When I first started looking into iron, I found there are two forms of Iron.

There is Heme-Iron(from animal and meat products) and non-Heme Iron( Vegetables and Supplements).

Knowing that you want Iron in a Non-Heme Iron form, it actually has three different forms. The three forms of Non-Heme are Ferric Iron, Ferrous Iron, and Carbonyl Iron. It would help if you were looking for the Ferrous form in your supplement.

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Ferrous is the most soluble(able to dissolve) of the three.

If you look at the multivitamins ingredients label, it will be called ferrous sulfate, ferrous gluconate, or ferrous fumarate.

Most of the multivitamins I see have at least 18mg of iron. This is the amount I look for because it’s 100% of your (DV) or Daily Value. The DV was developed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to help compare the nutrients a product has with how much you should have in your diet.

You can get a blood test to determine your levels which I recommend because you also don’t want too high Iron levels. Iron is one of the most important nutrients for aerobic performance basically because it carries oxygen to muscles.

When you have low iron levels, you will have low oxygen levels in the muscles which leads to low performance.

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FOLATE ALSO KNOWN AS FOLIC ACID

Folate is naturally present in many foods like dark leafy vegetables, avocados, Lentils, Beans, and Egg yolks. It would help if you had it to make Red and White blood cells in your bone marrow. Folate also converts carbohydrates into energy and produces DNA and RNA.

You may have never heard of folate, but it’s mostly known for helping during pregnancy and preventing congenital disabilities.

Although it’s good to take Folate at all ages and your recommended amount will increase as you get older. In one of my other articles, I mentioned homocysteine which is linked to heart disease. These homocysteine levels have been known to decrease with Folate.

Folic acid is an important nutrient found in multivitamins. It is crucial for pregnant women to take a multivitamin that contains folic acid, as it helps reduce the risk of birth defects in the brain and spine. Folic acid helps your body build healthy cells and turn food into energy. So, if you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant, be sure to include a multivitamin that contains folic acid in your daily routine.

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When searching for a multivitamin with Folate, you should ensure there are less than 1000 mcg’s(micrograms) on the ingredient label.

I look for at least 400 mcg but generally somewhere around 6 or 7 hundred total mcg. For those who might be a little depressed, I recommend making sure you have enough Folate.

Folate is not suggested for taking as a depression treatment, but some studies suggest low folate levels lead to depression.

When you have low levels and are on antidepressant treatment, the response can be pretty low.

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VITAMIN B-12

B vitamins are a vitamin you have heard of at some point.

Vitamin B-12 helps keep the nerve and blood cells healthy and is very crucial to the normal function of the brain and nervous system.

Your body needs B-12 but cannot produce it on its own.

I wrote a separate article on B12. If you would like to read it, you can just click  Benefits of B12

This is one of the reasons I have it on my list. You can get B-12 naturally from animal products, but just like some other vitamins, it can be tough to get your recommended amount of b vitamins  just from food sources. I like to take it because it’s been known to boost your energy levels and improve your memory.

A B-12 deficiency has been connected with memory loss, especially at an older age.

Losing Neurons in the brain is why you may have memory loss, and B-12 can help prevent that.

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As I mentioned in the last paragraph, one of the reasons I take it is the energy boost which B-12 has been known for a while as the go-to product for an energy burst. B-12 doesn’t necessarily provide energy to your body but plays a vital role in your energy production.

If you are extremely deficient in B-12 and take the supplement, your energy levels will most likely increase. If you cannot absorb B-12, there is an option and something I have seen a few friends do.

You can get an injection from your doctor and see how that feels.

There are two sources when it comes to B-12 cyanocobalamin and methylcobalamin.

When looking at the ingredient label, this isn’t extremely important if it’s one or the other since they are nearly identical. I have found through researching some studies that cyanocobalamin absorbs better, but methylcobalamin may retain or stay in your system better.

This is why I wouldn’t decide on a multivitamin based on one or the other. There isn’t a ton of research that compares the two sources.

VITAMIN C

Vitamin C is one of the most important nutrients in a multivitamin because it helps form and maintains bones, skin, and blood vessels. It is also an antioxidant, which means it helps protect our cells from damage. Vitamin C is essential for our overall health, so it’s important that we make sure to get enough of it in our diet.

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WHAT YOU SHOULDN’T SEE IN THE BEST  MULTIVITAMIN SUPPLEMENT 

These you should STILL be taking but just not while they are in the multivitamin. This is because these ingredients can interfere with absorption and how the other ingredients are utilized in the body.

I take these separately from my regular multivitamin.

I take a ZMA, a top-rated supplement at a different time with zinc and Magnesium. These two are both very important.

Magnesium: Magnesium is a mineral found in animals, humans, plants, the sea, and the earth. Pumpkin Seeds and spinach are very high in Magnesium. Believe it or not, Magnesium is involved in over 600 reactions in the body. Some of the more important roles are boosting exercise performance and fighting depression.

Your blood pressure can also be lowered with this mineral. Listing many benefits, and nearly half the population gets less than the daily recommended amount.

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A Great Video below from the creator of the Multivitamin I use explaining why they are left out.

Zinc: This interferes with Iron which I look for in my multivitamin, and for this reason, I take it separately.

Zinc is essential for the immune system; without it, you can get sick easier.

Have you heard of the top-rated zinc-based cold medicine Zicam?

Zinc is very popular for the common cold if you take it immediately when symptoms are felt.

Suppose you are a man. You may find this fact important. Several studies have linked low zinc amounts with low sperm quality. I know someone who had good luck with their acne by taking zinc, known to treat acne.

Calcium: Interferes with zinc. Most everyone has heard of this before, and when they hear the word, they think of bones.

Your body needs calcium to build and maintain strong bones.

If you are not getting enough calcium as an adult, you may get osteoporosis from the low bone mass. It would be best to take Calcium along with Vitamin D, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, because it enables your body to absorb it better.

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ARE FAT-SOLUBLE VITAMINS BETTER THAN WATER SOLUBLE

This is a difficult question because it depends on various factors, including individual health and dietary needs. However, there are some general things to consider when answering this question.

First, water-soluble vitamins are quickly absorbed, and any excess is released, whereas fat-soluble vitamins are slower to dissolve, and the excess is stored in the liver. This means that excessive amounts of fat-soluble vitamin supplements can cause problems such as vitamin toxicity.

However, water-soluble vitamins are not always enough on their own, and people who don’t eat a varied and balanced diet may need to take supplements containing fat-soluble vitamins. Overall, it is important to speak to a healthcare professional before starting any new vitamin supplement regime to determine which vitamins are best for you.

ARE MULTIVITAMINS GLUTEN-FREE

Multivitamin products are not all gluten-free, but some gluten-free options are available. Some people believe that gluten-free multivitamins are better because they don’t contain gluten, which can cause problems for people with wheat allergies or celiac disease. However, there is no evidence that gluten-free multivitamins are actually better than other multivitamin products.

Multivitamins are dietary supplements that can come in many different forms. There are traditional tablets, capsules, liquids, and powders. Some multivitamins are gluten-free, and some are not. It is important to check the multivitamin label to see if it is gluten-free.

Some of the best gluten-free multivitamins on the market today include Garden of Life, Nature Made, and many other companies that offer gluten-free multivitamins. These brands offer high-quality supplements that are free from gluten. They also contain a variety of other vitamins and minerals that are essential for good health.

If you are looking for a quality gluten-free multivitamin, consider Garden of Life or Nature Made. These brands offer safe products for people with gluten sensitivities or Celiac disease. These are some of the best multivitamins on the market.

 

DO MULTIVITAMINS CONTAIN ALL B VITAMINS

Multivitamin-mineral supplements contain all of the B-complex vitamins, which are essential for maintaining overall health. These vitamins work together to support a variety of bodily functions, including energy production, nerve function, and red blood cell formation.

A deficiency in any one of the B vitamins can lead to several health problems, so it’s important to make sure you’re getting all of them from your diet or through a multivitamin-mineral supplement.

Multivitamins are dietary supplements that contain about 100% of the Daily Value (DV) of most vitamins and nutritionally essential minerals. While there is some debate over whether or not multivitamins are necessary, they can be beneficial for filling in any nutritional gaps in your diet. If you don’t eat a lot of fruits and vegetables, for example, then taking a multivitamin may help ensure that you’re getting the nutrients your body needs.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO TAKE A MULTIVITAMIN

Multivitamins are a great way to ensure you get all the nutrients your body needs daily. But when’s the best time to take them?

Experts generally agree that in the morning or midday. The best time to take a multivitamin is with food so that any fat can help with absorption. That means if you’re taking your multivitamin with breakfast, you should include some healthy fats like avocado, eggs, or nuts.

That said, there is no wrong time to take a multivitamin supplement as long as you’re getting it in every day.

If you’re taking your multivitamin later in the day, try to have it with a meal that includes some protein and healthy carbs, like whole grain toast or quinoa. This will help your body absorb all the nutrients in the supplement.

No matter when you take your multivitamin, make sure to drink plenty of water too. Staying hydrated helps your body absorb all the good stuff in your supplement!

BEST MULTIVITAMIN FOR DOGS

When it comes to choosing the very best multivitamins for dogs, there are a few things to take into consideration. The first is your dog’s age, as different vitamins and minerals are recommended at different life stages. Secondly, you’ll want to ensure that the multivitamin you choose is specifically tailored to dogs – as they have different nutritional needs than humans.

Multivitamin supplements are important for dogs of all ages. They provide essential vitamins and minerals that can help keep your dog healthy and active. There are several great multivitamin supplements on the market, but I have a few with great reputations for you here.

1. Zesty Paws 11-in-1 Bites is a great option for dogs who love treats. These bites are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, as well as probiotics, to support gut health. They provide several essential nutrients, including vitamins A, C, D, and E, and minerals like iron and copper. They’re also fortified with probiotics to support your dog’s digestive health.
2. PetHonesty 10-For-1 Multivitamin is another great choice. This supplement contains ten essential vitamins and minerals, as well as omega-3 fatty acids to support skin and coat health. Provides key nutrients like vitamins A, C, and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. It’s also free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
3. NaturVet VitaPet Puppy Daily Vitamins are perfect for puppies. They provide essential vitamins and minerals for healthy growth and development, plus antioxidants to support immune system health. Provides essential vitamins and minerals like vitamins A, D, and E, as well as calcium and phosphorus. It’s also GMO-free and made with all-natural ingredients.
4. Natural Dog Company Daily is a good choice for adult dogs. It contains key vitamins and minerals to support overall health, plus omega-3 fatty acids to promote a healthy coat and skin.  It’s made with human-grade ingredients and is free from artificial flavors, colors, sweeteners, and preservatives. It provides several essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, D3, E, B12, biotin, and zinc.

When it comes to our furry friends, you want to make sure they’re getting the best possible care. This means ensuring they’re getting the nutrients they need to stay healthy. Multivitamin supplements can be a great way to do this, and there are several great options on the market. I would say Zesty Paws is one of the very best multivitamins on the market.

BEST MULTIVITAMINS FOR CHILDREN

As a parent, you want the best for your children. This includes providing the proper nutrients to help them grow and thrive. A good multivitamin can be a great way to ensure your child is getting the vitamins and minerals they need each day. When it comes to finding the best multivitamins for children, there are a few things to look for. The vitamins should be organic, have no artificial colors or flavors, and include iron.

Many multivitamins are on the market specifically designed for children, so it can be tough to decide which one is right for your little one. Here are four of the best multivitamins for children:

1. SmartyPants Kids Formula Daily Gummy Multivitamin: This multivitamin is perfect for kids who are picky eaters. The gummy vitamins are delicious and packed with essential nutrients.

2. Zarbee’s Naturals Complete Toddler Multivitamin: This vitamin is perfect for toddlers who are starting to develop their own eating habits. The chewable tablets are easy to swallow and provide a balanced amount of nutrients.

3. Centrum Kids’ Organic Multigummies: These gummy vitamins are made with organic ingredients and provide a broad spectrum of essential nutrients. They are perfect for kids who want a healthy snack that also provides nutritional benefits.

4. Renzo’s Vitamins for Kids Picky Eater Multi with Iron: This multivitamin is perfect for kids who have trouble swallowing pills or who don’t eat a lot of fruits and vegetables. The chewable tablets are packed with essential nutrients, including iron, which is often lacking in kids’ diets.

These multivitamins are all organic and include essential nutrients that kids need for healthy growth and development. They also have no artificial colors or flavors, so you can feel confident that your child is getting the best possible nutrition. And finally, each of these multivitamins includes iron, which is important for kids who may not get enough from their diet.

 

SHOULD YOU BE TAKING A MULTIVITAMIN

I always recommend a good, nutrient-dense, plant-rich diet of whole foods over a vitamin or a supplement. Real nutrient-rich natural foods give you much more than just vitamins and minerals.

Although a good multivitamin can provide things, whole foods can’t.

I think everyone should try a multivitamin and see how their body reacts. I highly recommend getting some blood work first to see where you are lacking.

If you do decide to take a multivitamin, make sure you take it with food. I made this mistake many years ago and took one on an empty stomach. This made me extremely nauseous, and I had an upset stomach.

“Making excuses burns zero calories per hour. A 1-hour workout is just 4% of your day.”

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