Ensuring you get all the nutrients you need can sometimes take a lot of effort, which is why many people supplement their diet with vitamins. According to recent numbers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 60% of American adults and 35% of American children take vitamin supplements daily.
Today, various supplement options are available, including pills, chewables, powders, liquids and gummies — with gummies being the most popular by far. But do gummy vitamins work?
Do Gummy Vitamins Work?
Gummy vitamins often look like candies, with different colors, shapes and flavors. They come in several types, including multivitamins, specialty vitamins (such as prenatal) and single-nutrient vitamins (like vitamin D). Multivitamins usually contain essential nutrients like vitamins A, B-complex, C, D and E, along with minerals like calcium, iron and zinc.
Vitamin supplements can provide the proper amounts of nutrients necessary for good health. They can be particularly helpful for people who must follow a restricted diet or have trouble absorbing some nutrients. Pregnant women should also take prenatal vitamins.
Benefits of Gummy Vitamins
Gummy vitamins are often preferred by many because they:
- Come in a variety of options: With a variety of formulations, it's simple to find what you need.
- Easy to take: Gummy vitamins are a solution for people who have trouble swallowing pills. They're also more convenient because you don't need water to take them.
- Have an appealing taste: Gummies are sweet and don't have a bad taste or odor like some vitamin pills or tablets.
- Kid-friendly: Because gummy vitamins look like candy, taste good and don't require swallowing a pill, they're a favorite among children.
Drawbacks of Gummy Vitamins
If you're considering whether gummy vitamins really work and if they'd be a good option for you, consider the following potential drawbacks as well:
- Artificial ingredients: Gummy vitamins can sometimes include artificial flavors and colors, along with fillers like gelatin and cornstarch for texture.
- Inconsistent nutrient levels: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration doesn't regulate supplements. That means, in some instances, what's listed on the product label might not be entirely accurate and you may get too much or not enough of some nutrients in a dose.
- Natural sugar substitutes: Some manufacturers use citric acid instead of sugar, but this can be just as harmful in wearing down the enamel on your teeth. Additionally, sugar alcohols from fruits and berries may cause nausea, bloating and diarrhea.
- Risk of overdose: Because gummies look and taste like candy, it can be easy for children to take too many at one time. Doing so can lead to serious health problems.
- Shortened shelf life: Compared to traditional vitamin supplements, gummy vitamins degrade faster and lose strength over time.
- Sugar content: Most gummy vitamins contain added sugars or sugar substitutes, amounting to three to eight grams per serving. Consuming too much sugar can be bad for your health and teeth.
Are Gummy Vitamins Right for You?
If you eat a balanced diet with a variety of nutritious foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins, you may not need a daily vitamin. But if you're concerned about a potential vitamin deficiency, talk to your doctor. They can order a blood test to measure your body's nutrient levels.
Research shows that if you need to take a vitamin supplement, your body absorbs nutrients in gummies just as easily as traditional vitamin pills and capsules.
Ask your doctor for recommendations of brands and dosage. If you opt for gummies, choose ones made by reputable manufacturers and that include a certification stamp, which indicates they were tested by an independent third party.
Keep in mind that vitamins should not replace a healthy diet. Nutritious foods are important to maintaining good health. While vitamins can be a beneficial health booster, it's always best to get your nutrients from foods rather than supplements.
Making an Informed Decision
At AdventHealth, your whole health is our highest priority — body, mind and spirit. Your doctor will work with you and our lab team to ensure you get the necessary nutrients. Take the first step today and learn more about our lab services.
