Let's be real: Swallowing big, chalky pills is never ideal... which is why we're pretty thankful for the advent of gummy vitamins (especially since they're often so tasty).
But while there are definitely tons of gummy vitamins to choose from, registered dietitian Brittany Linn, RD, CDN says it's very important to choose your products with caution: "Gummy vitamins are not regulated by the FDA, so it's important to make sure you are getting most (if not all) of your nutrients through the foods you eat," she explains. So while vitamins are a great form of insurance, she points out that you can't count on them to supply your body with everything it needs to run properly.
We spoke more to Linn (and other dietitians) about all the gummy product recommendations worth investing in, should you need the vitamin boost. So, from helpful product picks, to a few surprising disadvantages, below are nine things you'll definitely want to keep in mind re: gummy vitamins.
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Look for Biotin-Infused Gummy Vitamins
"Vitafusion Gorgeous Hair, Skin & Nails are a great-tasting multivitamin supplement with added beauty benefits," says Dr. Nicole Avena, assistant professor of neuroscience at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, and visiting professor of Health Psychology at Princeton University. "It contains 12 key nutrients including biotin and vitamin C, which supports healthy hair, strong nails, and gorgeous skin."
Take Vitamins That Are Verified By USP
"I recommend vitamins that are verified by USP, an agency that independently reviews the contents of vitamins, to ensure they're produced safely, contain the amounts of vitamins claimed on the bottle, and more," says registered dietitian Diana Gariglio-Clelland, RD. "The only gummy multivitamin verified by USP at this time are the Nature Made Multi + Omega-3 Adult Gummies, which contain plenty of vitamin D," she adds.
Look For Vitamins That Are Consumer Lab-Approved
"In regards to a top pick, Nature's Way Alive! Women's Gummy Multi Vitamins comes to mind, simply because Consumer Lab approved of this option using their Quality Certification Program," says registered dietitian Rachel Fine MS, RD, CSSD, CDN.
Select Comprehensive Multivitamin Products
"I recommend a comprehensive multivitamin product like Gummyy," says registered dietitian Staci Gulbin, MS, MEd, RD, LDN. "This vegetarian-based premium multivitamin (scheduled to launch later this fall) is a unique formulation of not only all of the essential vitamins and minerals you need, but also important compounds like omega-3, collagen, and CoQ10."
Image via @shopgummyy
