Multivitamin and Multimineral Supplements Review
Find the Best
Multivitamin Supplement for Adults, Seniors, Men, Women, Children and Pets.
Tests and Reviews of Multivitamin Supplements and CL's Top Picks.
Medically reviewed and
edited by Tod Cooperman, M.D. 
Last Updated
: 12/08/2021 | Initially Posted:
04/25/2020Latest Update: Prenatal Top Pick Changed
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Table of Contents
Summary
What did CL find? Twelve out of 27 (44.4%) of the
multivitamin/multimineral supplements selected by ConsumerLab.com for
testing failed to get our approval. These are marked as "Not Approved" in the results table.
The problems? Some had lower levels of nutrients
than the label claimed, some had higher amounts, and two
took longer than permitted to disintegrate ("break
apart") in solution. All product deficiencies were confirmed in tests in a
second independent laboratory (see What CL Found).
Avoid toxicity: Of particular concern is that several products
provided more than or close to the Upper Tolerable Intake Levels (ULs), above which
there is increasing risk of toxicity with regular use. For example, two gummy
vitamins listing 400 mg of folic acid were each discovered to contained more
than 200% of these amounts, i.e., over 800 mg of folic acid. Not only is this
far above the daily requirement (240 mg of folic acid, or 400 mcg DFE), but it
puts one close to exceeding the UL of 1,000 mcg of folic acid and potentially
over it if consuming folic acid from other sources, like fortified breakfast
cereals.
Our Top Picks: Among products that were
"Approved", including products tested through CL's voluntary Quality Certification Program, Top
Picks were selected for the following 10 categories based on best
product quality, appropriateness of dosage, formulation, and value:
·
Women
·
Prenatal
·
Men
·
Men 50+
·
Children
·
Diabetes
·
Pet
COVID-19 and Multivitamins: Each Top
Pick can help assure adequate intakes of vitamin D, vitamin C, and
zinc, which are important for proper functioning of the immune system without
risking excessive intakes that can cause negative effects. (See more
information about supplements and COVID-19,
the disease caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2.)
What to look for in a multivitamin? When selecting a multi, the
most important thing is to be sure it lists the right amount of each essential
vitamin and mineral. Check your own requirements using our RDA table or
the detailed information for each nutrient in
the Review.
What They Are:
Multivitamins/multiminerals (or "multis") are the most
popular supplements among the general population in America. There's no
standard formula for multis, so ingredients will vary dramatically from one
brand to another. It would be impossible to make a one-size-fits-all multi
anyway because nutritional needs depend on age, gender, health status, and
several other factors.
What They Do:
In 2014, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force reported that
there is inadequate evidence regarding a benefit or risk of harm with
multivitamins in healthy adults without nutritional deficiencies (excluding
women who are or may become pregnant) (USPSTF 2014, based on
studies reviewed in Fortmann, Ann Int Med 2013).
There is some evidence that taking multivitamins is associated with a
reduced incidence of some types of cancers in
certain populations. For example, a major study of male physicians 50 years of
age or older found an 8% lower incidence of cancers among those taking a
relatively modest-dose daily multivitamin compared to men taking placebo --
although there was no reduction in the mortality rate during the study period
of approximately 11 years (Gaziano, JAMA 2012). The
greatest reductions in cancer were among men with a prior diagnosis of cancer
(27% fewer new cancers) and men with no family history of cancer (14% fewer
cancers). There was no significant reduction in prostate cancer -- the most
common type of cancer in the study, however, there was a 12% reduction in all
other cancers combined. The supplement used in the study was Centrum
Silver, although the formula in the study dated from 1997 and contained 400
IU of vitamin D3 , 5,000 IU of vitamin A with 50% beta-carotene . In the
opinion of ConsumerLab.com staff, the recent changes to the formula would seem
unlikely to have negatively affected outcomes and the new formula may be
beneficial.
This same study of Centrum Silver found no
significant effect on the risk of cardiovascular disease, including
no significant reductions in heart attack, stroke, or death from cardiovascular
disease, among men taking the multivitamin versus placebo (Sesso, JAMA 2012).
Researchers found that taking the multivitamin was not associated with any
gastrointestinal side effects, fatigue, drowsiness, skin discoloration, or
migraine, but there was a 7% increased risk of skin rashes. This study was among
18 multivitamin studies included in a broader analysis that concluded that
multivitamin/multimineral supplementation "... does not improve
cardiovascular outcomes in the general population." However, most of the
studies included in the analysis did not characterize the multivitamins used,
making it impossible to generalize this conclusion to all formulas nor to
populations with specific conditions or deficiencies (Kim, Circulation 2018).
Additional analyses of the long-term study using Centrum
Silver among male physicians found no benefits on cognition or
verbal memory, although the researchers noted that the population studied
may have been too well-nourished to benefit from a multivitamin (Grodstein, Ann Int Med 2013). A 9% decrease in
the risk of cataract was found among those taking Centrum
Silver in this study, compared to those taking placebo, although there
was no decrease in the risk of developing visually significant age-related
macular degeneration (AMD) (Christen, Am Acad Opthal 2013). However, among
participants who were randomized to also take a separate, daily, high-dose
vitamin C supplement (500 mg synthetic ascorbic acid -- about 6 times the RDA),
there was no reduction in cataract risk, while the risk of
cataract decreased by 18% among those taking Centrum Silver (which
contains 60 mg of vitamin C) without the additional vitamin C
supplement.
A study in adults who previously suffered heart attacks found
that giving them high-dose vitamins and minerals did not result in a
statistically significant reduction in further cardiovascular events compared
to those receiving placebo (Lamas, Ann Int Med 2013). The supplement
consisted of 28 vitamins and minerals given as 6 large caplets daily and was
designed by complementary and alternative medicine practitioners. It included
amounts of vitamins A, C, and E and most B vitamins at several times the Daily
Value, and up to three times the Daily Value for folate, selenium, chromium,
and molybdenum. Patients took the supplement regimen for one to five years
(median was 31 months) and were followed for two to five years (median was 55
months). Many people dropped out of the study due to the complexity of the
regimen, although there was no evidence of harm.
There is little evidence from clinical trials showing that a specific multi can
reduce the risk of dying from cardiovascular disease, cancer,
or any other cause (Park, Am J Epidem 2011).
However, a U.S. study found that people who had used multivitamin/multimineral
supplements for at least 3 years were 35% less likely to have died of
cardiovascular disease over the following 20 or so years, compared to those who
had not taken a multi. This positive finding was largely driven by results for
women in the study, who were 44% less likely to have had a
cardiovascular-related death. None of the subjects had cardiovascular disease
at the start of the study and the results were adjusted to avoid potentially
confounding variables including race, education, aspirin use and blood
pressure. Interestingly, the apparent benefit did not occur for people who had
used multivitamins which lacked minerals, nor among people who had taken multis
for less than 3 years at the beginning of the study (Bailey, J Nutr 2015). In
addition, a study of women aged 50 to 79 years with invasive breast
cancer found that those who used multivitamins were 30% less likely to
have died from the disease, compared to non-users, over an average period of 7
years (Wassertheil-Smoller, Breast Canc
Res Treat 2013). Adjusting for factors such as age, race, and the
use of other supplements did not substantially change this estimate.
Unfortunately, the study did not evaluate the specific multivitamin formulas
used, so it is impossible to say which formula, if any, was associated with the
lowest mortality.
Taking a multivitamin does not seem to prevent respiratory
illnesses in older people, but it may shorten the duration and
severity of sick days. A study in 42 people 55-75 years old found that
taking two tablets of the multivitamin Redoxon Vita Immune (Bayer
AG) once daily for 12 weeks did not reduce the percentage of people who
reported respiratory illnesses, but those given the multivitamin reported fewer
sick days compared to those given placebo (2.29 days vs 6.43 days), and
symptoms tended to be more mild. A daily dose of two tablets provided a large
amount of vitamin C (1,000 mg — about 10 times the daily requirement) but more
moderate amounts of vitamin A (700 mcg), vitamin D (400 IU), vitamin E (45 mg),
vitamin B6 (6.6 mg), folic acid (400 mcg), vitamin B12 (9.6 mcg), iron (5 mg),
copper (0.9 mg), zinc (10 mg), and selenium (110 mcg). Supplementation did not
significantly affect measures of immune function such as white blood cell
(neutrophil) activity or cytokine levels, although, interestingly, patient
blood samples with higher levels of vitamin C showed reduced ability
to kill bacteria than those with lower levels. On the other hand, increased
zinc levels were modestly associated with a decrease in days ill and severity —
suggesting that zinc may have been responsible for some of the benefits (Fantacone, Nutrients 2020).
Quality Concerns and
Tests Performed:
Multivitamins can differ greatly in terms of
quality. The large number of ingredients in these products opens the
possibility for more things to go wrong than with single-ingredient
supplements. One potential problem is that the ingredients and/or amounts of
ingredients in the bottle may not match those listed on the label. And, as with
many mineral and herbal products, there's also a risk that a multi could be
contaminated with lead or other toxins. In addition, if tablets are too dense
or improperly coated, they may not properly disintegrate in the body. In our
last tests of multivitamins in 2017, 46% of the multivitamins selected for
testing failed to meet quality specifications. Most gummy formulations did not
contain the listed amounts of nutrients — having far less or far more. Several
tablets did not break apart quickly enough. No U.S. agency routinely
tests multis or other dietary supplements for their contents or quality. That's
where we come in. As part of our mission to independently evaluate products
that affect health and nutrition, ConsumerLab.com purchased leading
multivitamin/multimineral products sold in the U.S. and Canada (including
multis intended for pets) and put them to the test in the laboratory. We
couldn't test every ingredient in every product, so we chose to focus on
several standard nutrients including folate (folic acid), calcium, and vitamin
A (retinol and beta-carotene). We made some substitutions as needed. If a
product didn't contain folate, for example, we tested for vitamin C instead. If
it didn't contain significant calcium, we checked the levels of iron or zinc.
The amount of iodine was also checked in every prenatal vitamin claiming to
contain it. We also tested tablets for disintegration (how long it takes to
break apart in liquid); if tablets can't break apart fast enough, less
ingredient may be available for absorption by the body. In any product claiming
to contain whole herbs or more than 250 mg of minerals per daily serving or any
dicalcium phosphate, we also tested for potential contamination with arsenic,
cadmium, and lead. Any product claiming to be gluten-free that was tested
through our voluntary Quality Certification Program was
tested to be sure it met this claim.
Products had to pass testing for all of these criteria, as well as meet FDA
labeling requirements, to earn our "Approved" rating in the table
below (see Testing Methods and Passing Score).
What CL Found:
Twelve out of 27 (44.4%) of the multivitamins selected by
ConsumerLab.com for testing failed to get our approval. These are marked as
"Not
Approved"
in the results table below. Some had lower levels of nutrients than the label
claimed, some had higher amounts, and two took longer than permitted to
disintegrate ("break apart") in solution. All product deficiencies
were confirmed in tests in a second independent laboratory.
The other 15 products selected for testing were Approved, as were an additional
12 products tested through our voluntary Quality Certification Program (several
of which were also tested for gluten and found to meet gluten-free claims).
Gummy vitamins were the most likely form to
contain much more of an ingredient than listed. For example, CVS
Health Men's Daily Gummies contained double its listed amount of folic
acid — we found 817 mcg per daily serving of two gummies rather than the listed
400 mcg, moving it close to the upper tolerable intake level (UL) of 1,000 mcg
and, should one also get folic acid from fortified foods, like a breakfast
cereal, this could inadvertently could put you over the upper limit. Potential risks associated with getting high amounts of folate from
a synthetic form like folic acid include masking signs of B-12 deficiency,
kidney toxicity, peripheral neuropathy, promotion of cancer, and autism in
offspring. Similarly, Vitafusion MultiVites contained twice
its listed amounts folic acid and vitamin A (in 2017, we found that VitaFusion
Platinum 50+ contained 270% of its listed folic acid).
Gummies are notoriously difficult to manufacture because it is hard to measure
in the correct amounts of vitamins and minerals (some are simply sprayed on a
candy base) and the ingredients in a gummy are more likely to degrade, so
manufacturers sometimes intentionally put in more than the listed amount.
Nevertheless, some manufacturers seem to have figured out how to do it right.
For example, Smarty Pants Multi and Omega 3s was "Approved" as were
two gummy products tested through our voluntary Quality Certification Program -- Puritan's
Pride Women's Gummy Multivitamin and Walgreens Multivitamin
Gummies Women's.
If you are prone to iron deficiency, also be aware
that gummy vitamins typically do not contain iron, likely due to iron's
metallic taste. Another problem was that some
of the large tablets would not disintegrate within the 30-minute limit established
for multivitamin tablets in United States Pharmacopoeia (USP), which applies to
tablets and caplets that are not enteric-coated or timed release. This test is
conducted in an apparatus in which the tablets are continuously moved up and
down in warm water (at body temperature). Two tablets that failed were New
Chapter Perfect Prenatal Multivitamin, which took 80 minutes to fully
disintegrate (although this is better than what we found in 2017 with New
Chapter Every Woman Multivitamin which took 180 minutes. MegaFood
Men's One Daily took 15 minutes more than the allowed 30 minutes to
disintegrate, which is exactly what happened in 2017 when we tested MegaFood
Multi For Women 55+. All other tablets and caplets fully disintegrated in
less than 30 minutes. A concern with slower disintegration is that the
ingredients may not be fully available for absorption in the gut.
We also found that several products (including some for children) exceeded
or were just at upper tolerable intake levels (ULs) established by the
Institute of Medicine for nutrients such niacin, vitamin A, and folate. This is
noted in the results table below. Exceeding these levels puts you at increased
risk for various side effects or toxicities, although this may be appropriate
for people under a physician's care for certain medical conditions. For
example, large doses of niacin are often prescribed to people with high
cholesterol, but this can also cause skin flushing and tingling (unless the
niacinamide form of niacin is used). Excess pre-formed vitamin A may lead to
liver abnormalities, bone weakening, and problems with the nervous system. See
the ConsumerTips™ sections
for each vitamin and mineral for more information about the ULs.
One reason why multivitamins exceed recommended levels is that they are
designed to meet outdated standards established by the FDA in 1968 as the Daily
Value (DV). Updated DV's were established by the FDA in July 2016 and
many are much lower than the old DVs, while some are higher. For example, the
old DV for vitamin A was 5,000 IU for everyone, but the new DV ranges from just
1,000 IU for young children to 3,000 IU for adults. For a list of current DVs,
RDAs and upper limits for vitamins and minerals, see our RDAs table.
Below is a summary of our findings for each type of multivitamin, with special
focus on our Top Picks in each category, i.e., those that were Approved and
provide useful amounts of nutrients without raising a risk of toxicity, and are
favorably priced. More expensive products often include ingredients that you
may not need and, in some cases, are just "window dressing" if not at
an appropriate dose. If you want an ingredient that's not a vitamin or mineral,
such as lutein, CoQ10 or fish oil, you
can likely get them for lower cost and at the proper dose from a separate
supplement.
Top Picks:
General Adult:
This category covers multivitamins for adults that are not specific to one
gender or age range. Essentially, there are two types: general daily multis and
high-potency multis (providing more than the daily requirements). Unless you
are known to be deficient in a nutrient, a general daily is probably your best,
and least expensive, option.
Our Top Pick: Kirkland Signature (Costco) Daily Multi is our
top choice, providing at least 100% of the recommended daily intake of most
vitamins and minerals without exceeding any upper tolerable intake levels (ULs)
and costs just 3 cents per day (1 tablet) -- far less than most other
multivitamins, except for 21st Century Sentry, which is also 3 cents per tablet. 21st Century Sentry is very similar
to Kirkland, with the differences being that Kirkland provides
more magnesium (100 mg vs 50 mg) and vitamin C (90 mg vs. 60 mg) -- which may
be beneficial for people who don't get enough of these nutrients, and a bit
more of folic acid, which probably doesn't matter as both products provide more
than the RDA for adults. One minor issue with both products is that they each
provide only 400 IU of vitamin D, a bit less than the daily requirement of 600
IU for adults up to age 70 or 800 IU for adults 70 and above. Kirkland also
includes very small amounts of lutein and lycopene, which are essentially "window
dressing" since higher amounts are generally used.
If you have trouble swallowing large pills, consider a chewable vitamin, but
not a gummy, as gummies generally don't provide minerals such as iron, magnesium,
and zinc.
Adult 50+:
Our Top Pick: Equate [Walmart] Complete Multivitamin 50+ (3
cents per day). This is identical in vitamin and mineral levels to Up
& Up [Target] Adults 50+ Multivitamin (4 cents per tablet) as well
as to Centrum Silver tablets (which we tested and Approved in
2017 but cost more (8 cents per tablet).
These products provide the RDAs for most of the required nutrients, except they
provide no iron (the requirement for people over 50 is only 8 mg per day and is
not difficult to get from the diet), a little less than the RDA for vitamin C
(60 mg vs. the RDA of 75 mg for women and 90 mg for men), and just 30 mcg of
vitamin K, which is about one-third of the Adequate Intake (AI). It should not
be difficult, however, to get these from foods.
Since 2017, the amount of vitamin D in these products doubled from 500 IU to
1,000 IU, so they now provide more than the RDA for vitamin D (600 IU and, for
those 71+, 800 IU). Like other multis, they do not provide large amounts of
calcium, magnesium, or potassium, which you should get from foods. Each also
includes very small amounts -- less than one milligram of lutein and lycopene.
Interestingly, Centrum Silver Chewables, which was tested and
Approved, does not provide the same amounts of nutrients as Centrum
Silver tablets. Most notably, the chewables provide only 400 IU of
vitamin D versus 1,000 IU in the tablets. The chewables are also much more
expensive (27 cents per chewable tablet).
Women's:
Our Top Pick: Bayer One A Day Women's Formula, which costs 11
cents per daily tablet. Each tablet provides 1,000 IU of vitamin D -- a bit
more than you may need, but still a safe level. Each tablet also provides 380
mg of calcium per tablet, which is a substantial amount but, fortunately, less
than the 500 mg it used to contain — which was a bit more than one should
ideally take in one dose. Another advantage of taking a multi with a lower
amount of calcium is less chance of calcium interfering with the absorption of
iron in the multivitamin — an issue of concern for women who tend to be
iron-deficient. This product provides the full 18 mg RDA of iron for
non-pregnant women up to age 50. The one key nutrient missing from One-A-Day
Women's and similar tablets is magnesium, although none of the
Approved women's products provided more than 50 mg of magnesium per day.
Although Bayer One A Day Women's Formula is not a particularly
expensive product at 11 cents per tablet, Up & Up (Target) Women's
Daily Multivitamin, which was Approved in our tests in 2017, is essentially
identical in formulation and costs only 3 cents per tablet — less than
one-third the price of Bayer.
Women's 50+:
Our Top Pick: Bayer One A Day Women's 50+, which costs 14 cents
per daily tablet. Like regular One A Day Women's, each tablet
provides 1,000 IU of vitamin D and little less calcium (300 mg, which is fine),
but it does provide some magnesium (50 mg), although this is still less than
16% of the 320 mg RDA for older women. The Vitamin Shoppe Ultimate
Woman 50+ provided more magnesium (150 mg), but it also provided an
unusually high amount of folic acid (800 mcg), which is not necessary, and it
failed testing for not providing its promised amount of vitamin A as
beta-carotene.
Prenatal:
Our Top Pick: Deva Prenatal One Daily, which costs 12 cents per
daily tablet. Even if the other two prenatals had passed our tests, Deva would
still be our Top Pick. (Compared to their listed amounts,
both New Chapter Perfect Prenatal and Rainbow Light
Prenatal One had too little vitamin A and too much iodine, and New
Chapter also had too much iron and took longer than expected to break
apart).
[UPDATE (12/8/21): A reformulated version of Deva Prenatal
One Daily is now being sold. We have not yet tested it, but, in our
opinion, the changes are positive and it remains our Top Pick. Most
significantly, it now provides more iodine (225 mcg up from 150 mcg) and
fulfills the required amount during pregnancy of 220 mcg. It also provides
twice as much vitamin D (20 mcg [800 IU] vs. 10 mcg [400 IU]), somewhat higher
amounts of vitamin E and K, and a little less niacin and chromium. It also has
a little more folate (1,000 vs. 935 mcg DFE) but this amount is safe.]
Deva contained 150 mcg of iodine, which is the daily requirement
for adults but somewhat below the 220 mcg requirement during pregnancy (see
the Iodine section
below for additional information). It also contains some choline (50 mg),
which, since June of 2017, is recommended in prenatal vitamins by
the American Medical Association. The other prenatals did not
contain any choline. Choline may reduce the risk of birth defects, but most
women obtain too little choline from their diets. Getting about 200 to 400 mg
of choline daily would fill the gap for most women, although even more (up to
600 mg) during the 3rd trimester may be
beneficial (see Choline Review).
All of the prenatals provided adequate folate: The U.S. CDC recommends 400 mcg of folic acid to help
prevent neural tube (spinal cord) defects. None provided too much
folate, i.e., over 800 mcg from synthetic forms such as methylfolate and folic
acid (which has been associated with an increased risk of high blood
pressure during pregnancy, and approaches the daily upper limit for
folic acid of 1,000, which is associated an increased risk of adverse effects
in offspring).
Note that Deva contains amounts of additional B vitamins
significantly above the daily requirements. This includes 45 mg of niacin, an
amount that is slightly above the 40 mg level at which niacin may cause skin
flushing -- although the form in Deva is niacinamide, which is
less likely to cause flushing.
Deva also provides about 9 times the daily
requirement for riboflavin (vitamin B2), which can turn urine a bright yellow
color, although this is not dangerous. The yellow coating of Deva's tablets
may, potentially, also contribute to a yellow color in the urine. [(Update:
11/8/2021): Be aware that the light color of Deva's coating
may allow darker colors from ingredients in the tablets, such as iron, to show
through the coating as dark "spots" if oxidation occurs after the
bottle has been opened and not properly stored in a cool, dry place. This can
occur with light- colored multivitamin/multimineral tablets or clear capsules,
but is less apparent with pills that are speckled, dark, or opaque. This
appears to have been misconstrued as dark "mold" spots in some online
reviews of Deva, as shared with us by a CL member. It is not mold
and not a safety issue but does indicate oxidation of ingredients which could
possibly affect potency and efficacy, so it is best to discard such products.
We did not see any spots in the Deva samples we tested or on
tablets in a bottle we had retained, unopened and properly stored, for more
than one year past its expiration date.]
Deva also contains 21 mg of iron per tablet and 400 IU of vitamin
D, providing most of the 27 mg of iron and 600 IU of vitamin D needed daily by
pregnant women. (For information about the prenatal use of vitamin D, see
the Pregnancy section of the Vitamin D Supplements
Review.) Deva provides ample vitamin E (20 mg; 15 mg is the
RDA) and a small amount (40 mg) of magnesium — although pregnant women need to
get more -- 350 to 400 mg per day, which can be obtained from foods.
Deva seems to address many of the nutritional concerns for pregnant
women that have been noted in the past. Due to supplements, 33.4% of pregnant
women in the U.S. were estimated to exceed the upper level for folic acid based
on 2001-2014 reported intakes and 27.9% exceed the upper level for iron.
However, the same study showed that, even with supplements, 36.2% of pregnant
women still got too little iron, and even high percentages got too little
magnesium (47.5%), vitamin D (46.4%), and vitamin E (42.3%) (Bailey, JAMA Open 2019).
Men's:
Our Top Pick: Nature Made Men's Multi (15 cents per daily
softgel) provides just about all vitamins and minerals required by men,
although a little less than the RDA for vitamin C (60 mg vs. RDA of 90 mg) —
but you should easily be able to get the balance from your diet. It also
provides a substantial, yet safe, amount of vitamin D (1,000 IU). It includes
relatively small amounts of calcium (100 mg) and magnesium (40 mg), but,
remember, multis are not really meant to provide all of your vitamins and
minerals, but help assure that you get enough.
Men's 50+:
Our Top Pick: Member's Mark [Sam's Club] Men 50+ Multivitamin (3
cents per daily tablet) also provides just about all the vitamins and minerals
needed by older men and even more vitamin C (120 mg vs. RDA of 90 mg) and
vitamin D (1,000 IU vs. RDA of 600-800 IU). It also has plenty of vitamin B12
(100 mcg vs. RDA of 2.4 mcg), which may help some older men since B12 can be
harder to extract from food with age. It includes 210 mg of calcium and 75 mg
of magnesium, which provide good starts toward reaching the RDA through the
rest one's diet. [Update (9/3/21): This product appears to have been
discontinued. A good substitute, however, is our overall Top Pick for
adults 50+, Equate [Walmart] Complete Multivitamin 50+,
which also provides more than the RDA of B12 (25 mcg).]
Diabetes (Adult):
Our Top Pick: Multi-betic Diabetes Multi-Vitamin (41 cents
per two caplets daily) also provides substantial amounts of most vitamins
(although only 400 IU of vitamin D) and most minerals, including 200 mg of
magnesium — more than just about any multivitamin, and a good dose of chromium (200
mcg), which may be particular to helpful in diabetes if one does not enough from
their diet because chromium plays a role in glucose metabolism. Be aware,
however, that Multi-betic includes a large amount of niacin
(40 mg from niacinamide), which slightly exceeds the upper tolerable intake
levels for niacin of 35 mg.
Multi-betic includes alpha lipoic acid, which may help improve
symptoms of peripheral neuropathy and improve insulin sensitivity and blood
sugar control, but typically at a dose of 200 mg or more 3 times a day, not 100
mg once a day as provided by Multi-betic. If you want alpha lipoic
acid, it may be better -- and certainly less expensive (as little as a few
cents a day) -- to get it from a separate supplement (see the Alpha Lipoic Acid Review).
Bariatric Surgery:
This category is for people who have had gastric bypass surgery or other
stomach surgery to lose weight, which, depending on the portion of the
stomach/intestine affected, can reduce absorption of nutrients. Nutrient concerns are
generally with iron, calcium, zinc, vitamin D, and B vitamins (B12, folic,
acid, and thiamin). We did not test any products in this category this year,
but we did test one in 2017 that was Approved: ProCare Health Bariatric
Multivitamins (39 cent per day for 1 capsule). It provided significant
amounts of a broad range of vitamins and minerals, with particularly high
amounts of iron (45 mg), B12 (1,000 mcg), vitamin D (3,000 IU), niacin (40 mg),
and folate (1,360 mcg DFE) -- with the latter two exceeding the daily tolerable
intake levels, although this may be necessary in this population.
In 2015, we tested Bariatric Advantage Chewable Multi Formula,
which was also Approved. It is relatively expensive (61 cents for a two tablet
daily serving) and includes a higher dose than most other multis of the
nutrients commonly affected by bariatric surgery, particularly B-12 and folic
acid, although it does not contain iron and has a relatively modest amount of
calcium. If you have had bariatric surgery, check with your doctor regarding
your particular nutritional needs.
Children's:
Our Top Pick: Flintstones Complete (chewable tablets) (12
cents per chewable tablet; ½ to 1 per day, based on age). Each tablet provides
600 IU of vitamin D (the RDA for kids ages 1 and older), 18 mg of iron (the RDA
for kids ages 4 and older). It provides more vitamin A, vitamin C, and folate
(from folic acid) than the RDAs but does not exceed upper limits. Flintstones has
just 100 mg of calcium and no magnesium, so it's important that those be
obtained through the diet or, if necessary, as a separate supplement.
Chewable tablets like Flintstones are, in our opinion, the
best multivitamin formulation for kids because they are tasty but, unlike
gummies, can include iron and other minerals like zinc, and copper. You won't
find these in gummies, which is a real drawback since kids need more iron than
adults.
Be aware that many
children's multivitamins don't provide the right amounts of vitamins and
minerals. A review of 288 multivitamin/multimineral supplements for
children (ages 1 to <4 years) conducted by the U.S. government's Office of
Dietary Supplements found tolerable upper limits for young children were
exceeded for folic acid in 49%, for vitamin A in 17%, and for zinc in 14% of
products reviewed. Forty-four percent provided 50% or less than the DV for
vitamin D for children age 1 to <4. Nearly all reviewed products that
contained calcium and/or potassium provided 25% or less than the DV for these
nutrients — although supplements should not be expected to provide much more
for these macronutrients, which should largely be obtained from the diet (Dwyer, J Acad Nutr Diet 2021).
Keep in mind that the needs of teens generally fall between those of
adults and children, although teenage girls need much more iron than
younger girls, and teenage boys need a bit more iron than men and children. So,
for teenage boys, an appropriate multi could be one of the Approved General
(Adult) multis that are not high-dose but include iron, such as Kirkland
Signature (Costco) Daily Multi. For teenage girls, one of the multis listed
above under "Women's" would be fine, such as Bayer One A Day
Women's Formula as these not only contain a significant amount of
iron, but more calcium per day than you'll get from Flintstones —
at a time when many young girls don't get enough calcium.
Pet:
Our Top Pick: For dogs, Pet-Tabs (27
cents per chewable tablet, ½ to 1 tablet per day). In fact, Pet-Tabs was
the only pet supplement that passed our tests and was Approved. This has been a
problem with pet supplements in the past. The other multivitamin for
dogs, Sparkle Dog Multivitamin Daily Soft Chew, fell way short on
its claimed amounts of vitamin A and folate and contained much more zinc than
listed.
Neither of the multivitamins for cats passed testing: ActiPet Feline
Formula Multi-Vitamin contained hardly any of its listed vitamin A
(just 0.1%) and VetriScience Nu Cat Multivitamin contained
nearly double the amount of iron that it listed.
Test Results by Product:
The
table below provides information about 39 supplements that ConsumerLab.com
tested for this report. Twenty-seven were selected by ConsumerLab and twelve
are included for having passed testing through CL's Quality Certification Program. Products listed as Approved
met all quality criteria (see Tests Performed).
However, this does not necessarily mean that these products are right for you.
You need to check their ingredients against your particular needs. Use the
extensive information in the ConsumerTips™ section
as a guide.
In the table you'll also see what problems ConsumerLab uncovered it its tests
that caused a product to be Not Approved. You can also easily compare the
nutritional contents of products, scrolling to the right across the columns.
Price comparisons are shown in the 4th column. Some of the notable features of each product and
their complete lists of ingredients are found in the last three columns.
Results of
ConsumerLab.com Testing of multivitamin/multiminerals supplements
(Click arrows or swipe left or right to see all columns)
Approval Statusⓘ
Product Name
Suggested Servings
Contained Claimed Amounts of Nutrients Testedⓘ
Heavy Metalsⓘ
Disintegrated Properly
Gluten-Freeⓘ
Cost Per Serving
Price Paid
Size of Pillⓘ
Vitamin Eⓘ
Natural (N) or Synthetic (S)
Vitamin Kⓘ
Notable Features
Supplement Facts Per Suggested Serving
Ingredients / Other Ingredients
General (Adult) Products:
APPROVED
21st Century® Sentry
Mfd. by 21st Century HealthCare, Inc.
Adults take one (1) tablet daily with any meal or as directed by a
healthcare provider.
REFORMULATEDⓘ
✔
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: ✔
Gluten-free: ✔
$0.03/tablet
$4.39/130 tablets
Large tablet
1,050 mcg RAE
(3,500 IU)
(29% as beta-carotene)
2 mg
6 mcg
60 mg
10 mcg (D3)
(400 IU)
13.5 mg (S)
(14.9 IU)
25 mcg (K1)
667 mcg DFE
(400 mcg folic acid)
20 mg NE (20 mg)
(niacinamide)
Thiamin 1.5 mg, riboflavin 1.7 mg, biotin 30 mcg, pantothenic acid
10 mg
200 mg
(dicalcium phosphate, calcium carbonate)
18 mg
(ferrous fumarate)
50 mg
(magnesium oxide)
80 mg
(potassium chloride)
11 mg
(zinc oxide)
0.5 mg
(copper sulfate)
Phosphorus 20 mg, iodine 150 mcg, selenium 55 mcg, manganese 2.3
mg, chromium 35 mcg, molybdenum 45 mcg, chloride 72 mg, boron 75 mcg, tin 10
mcg, nickel 5 mcg, vanadium 10 mcg
No added Yeast or Artificial Flavors. Gluten
Free.
1 tablet
Vitamin A (as Acetate and 29% as Beta-Carotene) 1,050 mcg, Vitamin C (as
Ascorbic Acid) 60 mg, Vitamin D3 (as Cholecalciferol) 10 mcg (400 IU), Vitamin
E (as dl-Alpha Tocopherol Acetate) 13.5 mg, Vitamin K (as Phytonadione) 25 mcg,
Thiamin (as Thiamin Mononitrate, B-1) 1.5 mg, more...
Other Ingredients: Cellulose, Starch, Stearic.
Contains 2% of: Artificial Color (FD&C Yellow #6), Ascorbyl Palmitate, BHA,
BHT, Croscarmellose Sodium, dl-Alpha Tocopherol, Ethylcellulose, Gelatin, Gum
Arabic, Magnesium Stearate, Maltodextrin, Mannitol, Mono/ Diglycerides, more...
APPROVED
Integrative Therapeutics® Clinical Nutrients™ HP
Dist. by Integrative Therapeutics, LLC
Adults take 2 capsules daily, preferably with food.
✔
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: NA
Gluten-free: Not claimed
$0.90/2 capsules
$27.00/60 capsules
Large capsule
1,500 mcg RAE
(5,000 IU)
(75% as beta-carotene)
25 mg
500 mcg
250 mg
50 mcg (D3)
(2,000 IU)
87 mg (N)
129.6 mg
120 mcg (K1)
764 mcg DFE
(800 mcg Quatrefolic® brand (6S)-5-methyl-
tertahydro-
folate glucosamine salt))
50 mg NE (50 mg>UL)
(niacinamide)
Thiamin 75 mg, riboflavin 50 mg, biotin 300 mcg, pantothenic acid
50 mg, inositol 30 mg
NA
NA
84 mg
(magnesium lysinate)
NA
30
(zinc citrate)
NA
Iodine 225 mcg, selenium 200 mcg, manganese 1 mg, molybdenum 100
mcg, boron 3 mg
2 capsules
Theracurmin® 100 mg
Precaution: Contains soy.
2 capsules
Vitamin A (as 75% beta carotene and 25% retinyl acetate) 1,500 mcg, Vitamin C
(as ascorbic acid and potassium ascorbate) 250 mg, Vitamin D (as
cholecalciferol) 50 mcg, Vitamin E (as mixed tocopherols and d-alpha tocopheryl
succinate) 87 mg, Vitamin K1 (as phytonadione) 60 mcg, more...
Other Ingredients: Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose
(vegetable capsule), maltose, gum ghatti, dextrin, silicon dioxide, cellulose,
citric acid.
APPROVED
Top Pick
for General (Adults)
Kirkland Signature [Costco] Daily Multi
Dist. by Costco Wholesale Corporation
Take one (1) tablet daily, preferably with a meal.
✔
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: ✔
Gluten-free: Not claimed
$0.03/tablet
$13.99/500 tablets
Medium/large tablet
1,050 mcg RAE
(3,500 IU)
(29% as beta-carotene)
2 mg
6 mcg
90 mg
10 mcg (D3)
(400 IU)
13.5 mg (S)
(14.9 IU)
25 mcg (K1)
833 mcg DFE
(500 mcg folic acid)
20 mg NE (20 mg)
(niacinamide)
Thiamin 1.5 mg, riboflavin 1.7 mg, biotin 30 mcg, pantothenic acid
10 mg
200 mg
(dicalcium phosphate, calcium carbonate)
18 mg
(ferrous fumarate)
100 mg
(magnesium oxide)
80 mg
(potassium chloride)
11 mg
(zinc oxide)
0.9
(cupric sulfate)
Phosphorus 109 mg, iodine 150 mcg, selenium 55 mcg, manganese 2.3
mg, chromium 35 mcg, molybdenum 45 mcg, chloride 72 mg, silicon 2 mg, boron 150
mcg, vanadium 10 mcg
1 tablet
Lycopene 300 mcg, lutein 250 mcg
No Artificial Colors or Flavors. No Gluten. No Lactose. USP® Dietary
Supplement Verified seal.
1 tablet
Vitamin A (29% as Beta-Carotene) 1,050 mcg, Vitamin C 90 mg, Vitamin D3 10 mcg
(400 IU), Vitamin E 13.5 mg, Vitamin K 25 mcg, Thiamin (Vitamin B-1) 1.5 mg,
Riboflavin (Vitamin B-2) 1.7 mg, Niacin 20 mg, Vitamin B6 2 mg, Folate 833 mcg
DFE (500 mcg folic acid), Vitamin B12 6 mcg, Biotin 30 mcg, Pantothenic Acid 10
mg, more...
Ingredients: Dicalcium Phosphate, Magnesium
Oxide, Potassium Chloride, Calcium Carbonate, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Ascorbic
Acid, Ferrous Fumarate, Gelatin. Contains 2% or less of beta-carotene, biotin,
calcium silicate, carnauba wax, cholecalciferol, chromium picolinate,
croscarmellose sodium, more...
NOT APPROVED
Nutrilite® Daily
Dist. by Amway Corp.
Take 1 tablet daily, preferably with a meal.
Found 169.7% of listed folate
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: ✔
Gluten-free: Claimed
$0.23/tablet
$42.00/180 tablets
Medium/large tablet
1,500 mcg RAE
(5,000 IU)
(20% as beta-carotene)
2 mg
9 mcg
90 mg
10 mcg (D3)
(400 IU)
20 mg (N)
(29.8 IU)
40 mcg (K1)
670 mcg DFE
(400 mcg folic acid)
Found
1,136.7 mcg>UL DFE
(668.6 mcg folic acid) (169.7% of listed folate)
20 mg NE (20 mg)
(niacinamide)
Thiamin 2.3 mg, riboflavin 2.6 mg, biotin 300 mcg, pantothenic
acid 10 mg
200 mg
(calcium carbonate)
6 mg
(ferrous fumarate, electrolytic iron)
100 mg
(magnesium oxide)
NA
15 mg
(zinc oxide)
2 mg
(copper gluconate)
Phosphorus 45 mg, iodine 150 mcg, selenium 70 mcg, manganese 2 mg,
chromium 120 mcg, molybdenum 75 mcg
1 tablet
Nutrilite® concentrate 75 mg
No Artificial Colors, Flavors, Or Preservatives Added. Independently Tested
Gluten-Free. Kosher.
Precaution: Contains Soy and Fish (Whitefish).
1 tablet
Vitamin A (as Vitamin A acetate and 20% as beta carotene) 1,500 mcg, Vitamin C
(as ascorbic acid) 90 mg, Vitamin D (as Vitamin D3) 10 mcg, Vitamin E (as
d-alpha tocopheryl acid succinate) 20 mg, Vitamin K (as phytonadione) 40 mcg, more...
Other Ingredients: Microcrystalline Cellulose,
Dicalcium Phosphate Acacia, Sodium Carboxymethyl-
cellulose, Corn Starch, Sucrose, Magnesium Stearate, Dextrose Monohydrate,
Maltodextrin, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Gelatin, Carnauba Wax.
APPROVED
Platinum Naturals® Easymulti
Dist. by Platinum Naturals
Take one (1) softgel daily, with a meal, or as directed by your health
care practitioner.
✔
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: NA
Gluten-free: Not claimed
$0.33/softgel
$39.95/120 softgels
Very large softgel
2,256 mcg RAE
(5,000 IU)
(66.5% as beta-carotene)
25 mg
25 mcg
150 mg
25 mcg (D3)
(1,000 IU)
67 mg (N)
(100 IU)
NA
1,360 mcg DFE
(800 mcg folic acid)
25 mg NE (25 mg)
(niacinamide)
Thiamin 25 mg, riboflavin 25 mg, pantothenic acid 25 mg, biotin 25
mcg, inositol 8 mg
125 mg
(calcium carbonate)
8 mg
(iron bisglycinate)
50 mg
(magnesium oxide)
15 mg
(potassium sulfate)
7.5 mg
(zinc sulfate)
1 mg
(cupric sulfate)
Manganese 5 mg, iodine 75 mcg, chromium 12.5 mcg, selenium 12.5
mcg, molybdenum 12.5 mcg
1 softgel
Choline 8 mg, rutin 10 mg, flax oil 430 mg
1 softgel
Vitamin A (Palmitate) 756 mcg / 2,500 IU, Vitamin A (Beta-Carotene) 1,500 mcg /
2,500 IU, Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) 25 mcg / 1,000 IU, Vitamin E (d-alpha
tocopherol) 67 mg / 100 IU, Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) 150 mg, Vitamin B1
(Thiamine HCl) 25 mg, Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) 25 mg, more...
Non-Medicinal Ingredients: Flax (Linseed) Oil
(430 mg), beeswax, sunflower lecithin. Softgel Ingredients: Gelatin, glycerin,
purified water, chlorophyll.
APPROVED
Pure Encapsulations® GlutenAssure Multivitamin
Mfd. by Pure Encapsulations
Take 1 capsule with each meal [3 capsules per day].
✔
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: NA
Gluten-free: ✔
$0.45/capsule
$40.90/90 capsules
Large capsule
1,500 mcg RAE
(5,000 IU)
(20% as beta-carotene)
24.9 mg
999 mcg
99
25 mcg (D3)
(999 IU)
19.8 mg (N)
(29.5 IU)
120 mcg (K1 and K2 MK-7)
999 mcg DFE
(600 mcg L-5-methylterta-
hydrofolate)
19.8 mg NE (19.8 mg)
(niacin, niacinamide)
Thiamin 9.9 mg, riboflavin 3.9 mg, biotin 99 mcg, pantothenic acid
6 mg, inositol 30 mg
150 mg
(di-calcium malate (DimaCal®))
NA
150 mg
(di-magnesium malate (Albion®))
NA
15 mg
(zinc picolinate)
0.9 mg
(copper bis-glycinate)
Iodine 150 mcg, selenium 69 mcg, manganese 2.4 mg, chromium 99 mcg
1 capsule
FloraGLO lutein 666 mcg, 5-LOXIN® Boswellia serreta extract 33
mg, Tolerase® G 29,000 PPI
Gluten-free, Non-GMO & Hypoallergenic.
1 capsule
Vitamin A (as vitamin A acetate and as 20% beta carotene) 500 mcg, Vitamin C
(as ascorbic acid) 33 mg, Vitamin D (as cholecalciferol) (D3) 8.3 mcg (333 IU),
Vitamin E (as d-alpha tocopherol succinate) 6.6 mg, Vitamin K (as vitamin K1)
30 mcg, Thiamin (as thiamin HCl) (B1) 3.3 mg, more...
Other Ingredients: Vegetarian capsule
(cellulose, water), hypoallergenic plant fiber (cellulose).
APPROVED
USANA® CellSentials™ Core Minerals
Mfd. by USANA Health Sciences, Inc.
Adults take two (2) tablets twice daily, preferably with food.
Sold with USANA® CellSentials™ Vita-Antioxidant
✔
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: ✔
Gluten-free: Not claimed
$0.48/2 tablets
$53.95/one bottle of Core Minerals of 112 tablets and one bottle of
Vita-Antioxidant of 112 tablets (224 tablets total)
Large tablet
Sold with USANA® CellSentials™ Vita-Antioxidant
NA
NA
NA
600 mg
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
None.
226 mg
(calcium citrate, calcium ascorbate)
NA
226 mg
(magnesium citrate, magnesium ascorbate)
NA
20 mg
(zinc citrate)
2 mg
(copper gluconate)
Iodine 500 mcg, selenium 200 mcg, manganese 2 mg, chromium 300
mcg, molybdenum 50 mcg, boron 3 mg, silicon 4 mg, vanadium 40 mcg, ultra trace
minerals 3 mg
2 tablets
N-acetyl L-cysteine 80 mg
Kosher.
2 tablets
Vitamin C (as Magnesium Ascorbate and Calcium Ascorbate) 300 mg, Calcium (as
Calcium Citrate and Calcium Ascorbate) 113 mg, Iodine (as Potassium Iodide) 250
mcg, Magnesium (as Magnesium Citrate and Magnesium Ascorbate) 113 mg, Zinc (as
Zinc Citrate) 10 mg, Selenium (as L-selenomethionine and Sodium Selenite) 100
mcg, more...
Other Ingredients: Microcrystalline Cellulose,
Modified Cellulose, Croscarmellose Sodium, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Organic
Maltodextrin, Pregelatinized Starch, Silicon Dioxide, Vanilla Extract, Organic
Sunflower Lecithin, Organic Palm Olein, Organic Guar Gum.
APPROVED
USANA® CellSentials™ Vita-Antioxidant
Mfd. by USANA Health Sciences, Inc.
Adults take two (2) tablets twice daily, preferably with food.
Sold with USANA® CellSentials™ Core Minerals
✔
Heavy metals: NA
Disintegration: ✔
Gluten-free: Not claimed
$0.48/2 tablets
$53.95/one bottle of Core Minerals of 112 tablets and one bottle of
Vita-Antioxidant of 112 tablets (224 tablets total)
Large tablet
Sold with USANA® CellSentials™ Core Minerals
3,608 mcg RAE
(12,026.7 IU)
(75% as beta-carotene)
32 mg
200 mcg
400 mg
50 mcg (D3)
(2,000 IU)
134 mg (N)
(200 IU)
540 mcg (K1 and K2 MK-7)
1,000 mcg DFE
(600 mcg folic acid)
40 mg NE (40 mg>UL)
(niacinamide, niacin)
Thiamin 30 mg, riboflavin 30 mg, biotin 300 mcg, pantothenic acid
90 mg, inositol 128 mg
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
None.
2 tablets
Choline 51 mg, mixed tocopherols 40 mg, alpha lipoic acid 50 mg, Meriva®
bioavailable curcumin complex 36 mg, green tea extract 35 mg, quercetin
dihydrate 30 mg, rutin 20 mg, hesperidin 20 mg, resveratrol 20 mg, Olivol® 15
m], coenzyme Q10 6 mg, lutein 300 mcg, lycopene 500 mcg
Kosher.
2 tablets
Vitamin A (as 25% (516 mcg) Retinyl Acetate and 75% (2,700 mcg) as Beta
Carotene, Mixed Carotenoids) 1,804 mcg RAE, Vitamin C (as Poly C® blend:
Potassium, Calcium, Magnesium, and Zinc Ascorbates) 200 mg, Vitamin D3 (as
Cholecalciferol) 25 mcg, Vitamin E (as d-alpha-Tocopheryl Succinate) 67 mg,
Vitamin K (as K1 [Phytonadione] 240 mcg, more...
Other Ingredients: Microcrystalline Cellulose,
Modified Starch, Vegetable Fatty Acid, Croscarmellose, Sodium, Silicon Dioxide,
Organic Maltodextrin, Vanilla Extract, Organic Sunflower Lecithin, Organic Palm
Olein, Organic Guar Gum.
NOT APPROVED
Vitafusion™ MultiVites - Natural Berry, Peach
& Orange Flavors
Dist. by Church & Dwight Co., Inc.
Adults take two (2) gummy vitamins per day.
(See recall of lots manufactured Oct - Nov 2020)
Found 204.7% of listed vitamin A and 205.2% of listed folate
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: NA
Gluten-free: Not claimed
$0.14/2 gummies
$9.47/two bottles of 70 gummies (140 gummies total)
Medium/large circular gummy
450 mcg RAE
(1,500 IU)
(as retinyl palmitate)
Found 921
mcg RAE (3,070 IU) (204.7% of listed vitamin A)
1.7 mg
4.8 mcg
36 mg
25 mcg (D3)
(1,000 IU)
16.5 mg (S)
(15 IU)
NA
400 mcg DFE
(240 mcg folic acid)
Found 837.1
mcg DFE (492.4 mcg folic acid) (205.2% of listed folate)
8 mg NE (8.8 mg)
(inositol niacinate)
Biotin 30 mcg, pantothenic acid 3 mg, inositol 1.5 mg
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Chromium 35 mcg, molybdenum 11 mcg, sodium 10 mg, boron 150 mcg
No Artificial Flavors or Sweeteners. No Gluten.
No High Fructose Corn Syrup. No Dairy. No Synthetic FD&C Dyes.
Precaution: Contains: tree nuts (coconut). Processed in a facility
with products that contain egg, fish, shellfish, soy and tree nuts.
2 gummies
Calories 15, Total Carbohydrate 4 g, Total Sugars [Includes 3 g Added Sugars] 3
g, Vitamin A (as retinyl palmitate) 450 mcg RAE, Vitamin C (as ascorbic acid
and sodium ascorbate) 36 mg, Vitamin D (as cholecalciferol) 25 mcg (1,000 IU),
Vitamin E (as dl-alpha-tocopheryl acetate) 15 mg, more...
Other Ingredients: Glucose syrup, sugar, water,
gelatin; less than 2% of: blend of oils (coconut and/or palm) with beeswax
and/or carnauba wax, citric acid, colors (annatto extract, blueberry and carrot
concentrate), lactic acid, natural flavors, and pectin.
Adult 50+ Products - General:
APPROVED
Centrum® Silver® Chewables - Adults 50+ - Citrus
Berry
Dist. by Pfizer
Adults - Chew one (1) tablet daily with food.
DISCONTINUEDⓘ
✔
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: NA
Gluten-free: Not claimed
$0.27/chewable tablet
$32.37/two bottles of 60 chewable tablets (120 chewable tablets total)
Large circular chewable tablet
1,200 mcg RAE
(4,000 IU)
(50% as beta-carotene)
7 mg
25 mcg
75 mg
10 mcg (D3)
(400 IU)
63 mg (S)
(70 IU)
NA
680 mcg DFE
(400 mcg folic acid)
12 mg NE (12 mg)
(niacinamide)
Thiamin 2.2 mg, riboflavin 2.7 mg, biotin 45 mcg, pantothenic acid
10 mg
200 mg
(dibasic calcium phosphate, calcium carbonate)
NA
50 mg
(magnesium oxide)
NA
15 mg
(zinc oxide)
2 mg
(cupric oxide)
Phosphorus 125 mg, iodine 100 mcg, selenium 22.5 mcg, manganese
4.5 mg, chromium 100 mcg, molybdenum 25 mcg, nickel 5 mcg, tin 10 mcg, silicon
4 mg, vanadium 10 mcg
1 chewable tablet
Lutein 250 mcg
Precaution: Contains: Wheat.
1 chewable tablet
Calories 5, Total Carbohydrate 2 g, Sugar Alcohols 2 g, Vitamin A (50% as
Beta-Carotene) 4,000 IU, Vitamin C 75 mg, Vitamin D 400 IU, Vitamin E 70 IU,
Thiamin 2.2 mg, Riboflavin 2.7 mg, Niacin 12 mg, Vitamin B6 7 mg, Folic Acid
400 mcg, Vitamin B12 25 mcg, Biotin 45 mcg, Pantothenic Acid 10 mg, more...
Ingredients: Sorbitol, Dibasic Calcium
Phosphate, Mannitol (Wheat), Microcrystalline Cellulose, Maltodextrin, Calcium
Carbonate, Ascorbic Acid (Vit. C) Magnesium Oxide, dl-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate
(Vit. E), Pregelatinized Corn Starch, Mono- and Di-glycerides, more...
APPROVED
Top Pick
for Adult 50+
Equate™ Complete Multivitamin - Adults 50+
Dist. by Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.
Adults - One tablet daily with food as a dietary supplement.
✔
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: ✔
Gluten-free: Claimed
$0.03/tablet
$7.88/two bottles of 125 tablets (245 tablets total)
Medium/large tablet
750 mcg RAE
(2,500 IU)
(40% as beta-carotene)
3 mg
25 mcg
60 mg
25 mcg (D3)
(1,000 IU)
45 mg (S)
(50 IU)
30 mcg (K1)
680 mcg DFE
(400 mcg folic acid)
20 mg NE (20 mg)
(nicotinamide)
Thiamin 1.5 mg, biotin 30 mcg, pantothenic acid 10 mg
220 mg
(calcium carbonate, dicalcium phosphate)
NA
50 mg
(magnesium oxide)
80 mg
(potassium chloride)
11 mg
(zinc oxide)
0.5 mg
(cupric sulfate)
Phosphorus 20 mg, iodine 150 mcg, selenium 19 mcg, manganese 2.3
mg, chromium 50 mcg, molybdenum 45 mcg, chloride 72 mg, nickel 5 mcg, silicon 2
mg, vanadium 10 mcg
1 tablet
Lutein 250 mcg, lycopene 300 mcg
Gluten-Free. No Artificial Flavors. No Lactose.
Precaution: May contain: Ascorbyl Palmitate, Carnauba Wax,
Cellulose Gum, Povidone, Sodium Selenate.
1 tablet
Vitamin A (40% as beta-carotene) 2,500 IU, Vitamin C 60 mg, Vitamin D3 1,000
IU, Vitamin E 50 IU, Vitamin K 30 mcg, Thiamine 1.5 mg, Riboflavin 1.7 mg,
Niacin 20 mg, Vitamin B6 3 mg, Folic Acid 400 mcg, Vitamin B12 25 mcg, Biotin
30 mcg, Pantothenic Acid 10 mg, Calcium 220 mg, Phosphorus 20 mg, Iodine 150
mcg, more...
Ingredients: Calcium Carbonate, Potassium
Chloride, Dicalcium Phosphate, Magnesium Oxide, Maltodextrin, Ascorbic Acid,
Microcrystalline Cellulose, dl-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate, Gelatin. Contains 2%
or less of: Beta-Carotene, BHT, Biotin, Carboxymethyl-
cellulose Sodium, Cholecalciferol, more...
APPROVED
Up & Up [Target] Adults' 50+ Multivitamin
Dist. by Target Corporation
Adults, take one tablet daily with food as a dietary supplement.
✔
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: ✔
Gluten-free: Not claimed
$0.04/tablet
$7.89/220 tablets
Medium/large tablet
750 mcg RAE
(2,500 IU)
(40% as beta-carotene)
3 mg
25 mcg
60 mg
25 mcg (D3)
(1,000 IU)
45 mg (S)
(50 IU)
30 mcg (K1)
680 mcg DFE
(400 mcg folic acid)
20 mg NE (20 mg)
(niacinamide)
Thiamin 1.5 mg, riboflavin 1.7 mg, biotin 30 mcg, pantothenic acid
10 mg
220 mg
(calcium carbonate, dicalcium phosphate)
NA
50 mg
(magnesium oxide)
80 mg
(potassium chloride)
11 mg
(zinc oxide)
0.5 mg
(cupric sulfate)
Phosphorus 20 mg, iodine 150 mcg, selenium 19 mcg, manganese 2.3
mg, chromium 50 mcg, molybdenum 45 mcg, chloride 72 mg, nickel 5 mcg, silicon 2
mg, vanadium 10 mcg
1 tablet
Lutein 250 mcg, lycopene 300 mcg
No Artificial Flavors. No Gluten. No Lactose.
1 tablet
Vitamin A (40% as beta-carotene) 2,500 IU, Vitamin C 60 mg, Vitamin D3 1,000
IU, Vitamin E 50 IU, Vitamin K 30 mcg, Thiamin 1.5 mg, Riboflavin 1.7 mg,
Niacin 20 mg, Vitamin B6 3 mg, Folic Acid 400 mcg, Vitamin B12 25 mcg, Biotin
30 mcg, Pantothenic Acid 10 mg, Calcium 220 mg, more...
Ingredients: Calcium Carbonate, Potassium
Chloride, Dicalcium Phosphate, Magnesium Oxide, Ascorbic Acid (Vit. C),
dl-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate (Vit. E), Gelatin, Microcrystalline Cellulose,
Acacia, Croscarmellose Sodium, Stearic Acid, Niacinamide, Calcium Silicate, more...
Women's Products:
APPROVED
Top Pick
for Women's
Bayer One A Day® Women's
Dist. by Bayer HealthCare LLC
Adults: One tablet daily, with food.
✔
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: ✔
Gluten-free: Claimed
$0.11/tablet
$11.43/100 tablets
Large tablet
700 mcg RAE
(2,333.3 IU)
(10% as beta-carotene)
1.7 mg
6 mcg
75 mg
25 mcg (D3)
(1,000 IU)
7.5 mg (S)
(8.3 IU)
25 mcg (K1)
666 mcg DFE
(400 mcg folic acid)
16 mg NE (16 mg)
(niacinamide)
Thiamin 1.2 mg, riboflavin 1.3, biotin 1,000 mcg, pantothenic acid
5 mg
380 mg
(calcium carbonate, dicalcium phosphate)
18 mg
(ferrous fumarate)
NA
NA
8 mg
(zinc oxide)
0.9 mg
(cupric oxide)
Iodine 150 mcg, selenium 27.5 mcg, manganese 1.8 mg, chromium 25
mcg
Free Of: Artificial Sweeteners, Artificial
Flavors, Fish/Shellfish Allergens, Gluten, High Fructose Corn Syrup.
1 tablet
Vitamin A (10% as beta-carotene) 700 mcg, Vitamin C 75 mg, Vitamin D (as
Vitamin D3) 25 mcg (1,000 IU), Vitamin E 7.5 mg, Vitamin K 25 mcg, Thiamin (B1)
1.2 mg, Riboflavin (B2) 1.3 mg, Niacin 16 mg, Vitamin B6 1.7 mg, Folate 666 mcg
DFE (400 mcg folic acid), Vitamin B12 6 mcg, Biotin 1,000 mcg, more...
Ingredients: Calcium Carbonate, Microcrystalline
Cellulose, Dicalcium Phosphate, Ascorbic Acid, Ferrous Fumarate, Maltodextrin;
Less than 2% of: Beta-Carotene, Biotin, Cholecalciferol, Chromium Chloride,
Croscarmellose Sodium, Cupric Oxide, Cyanocobalamin, D-Calcium Pantothenate, more...
APPROVED
Garden of Life® mykind Organics Women's Multi
Dist. by Garden of Life LLC
Adults take 2 tablets daily with food.
✔
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: ✔
Gluten-free: ✔
$1.39/2 vegan tablets
$41.59/60 vegan tablets
Large vegan tablet
1,875 mcg RAE
(6,250 IU)
(as beta-carotene)
13 mg
30 mcg
75 mg
25 mcg (D3)
(1,000 IU)
25.5 mg (N)
(38 IU)
80 mcg (K2 MK-7)
500 mcg DFE
(500 mcg from organic food blend)
25 mg NE (25 mg)
(from organic food blend)
Thiamin 2 mg, riboflavin 2 mg, biotin 375 mcg, pantothenic acid 13
mg
7
(from organic food blend)
10
(from organic food blend)
3
(from organic food blend)
NA
7
(from organic food blend)
NA
Iodine 150 mcg, selenium 90 mcg, manganese 1.5 mg, chromium 150
mcg
2 vegan tablets
Certified organic food blend 1 g
USDA Organic seal. Non GMO Project Verified seal. Certified Vegan Vegan.org
seal. Gluten-Free.
2 vegan tablets
Vitamin A (as Beta Carotene from Organic Food Blend) 6,250 IU, Vitamin C (from
Organic Food Blend) 75 mg, Vitamin D (D3 from Lichen) 1,000 IU, Vitamin E (from
Organic Food Blend) 38 IU, Vitamin K (K Complex with K2 MK-7) 80 mcg, Thiamin
(Vitamin B1 from Organic Food Blend) 2 mg, more...
Other Ingredients: Clean Tablet Technology™
Blend (patent pending): Organic Tapioca Dextrose, Organic Gum Arabic, Organic
Brown Rice (Concentrate & Extract), Organic Potato Starch, Organic Coating
(Organic Tapioca Maltodextrin, Organic Sunflower Lecithin, Organic Palm Oil,
Organic Guar Gum).
APPROVED
GNC Women's Ultra Mega®
Dist. by General Nutrition Corporation
Take two caplets daily with food.
✔
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: NA
Gluten-free: ✔
$0.44/2 caplets
$19.99/90 caplets
Large caplet
1,500 mcg RAE
(5,000 IU)
(50% as beta-carotene)
50 mg
50 mcg
200 mg
40 mcg (D3)
(1,600 IU)
20.1 mg (N)
(30 IU)
80 mcg (K1)
680 mcg DFE
(400 mcg folic acid)
50 mg NE (50 mg>UL)
(niacin, niacinamide)
Thiamin 50 mg, riboflavin 50 mg, biotin 300 mcg, pantothenic acid
50 mg, inositol 10 mg
500 mg
(calcium carbonate, calcium ascorbate)
18 mg
(ferrous fumarate)
50 mg
(magnesium oxide)
NA
15 mg
(zinc oxide)
2 mg
(copper sulfate)
Iodine 150 mcg, selenium 200 mcg, manganese 2 mg, chromium 120
mcg, molybdenum 75 mcg, silica 4 mg, boron 2 mg, vanadium 10 mcg
2 caplets
Alpha-lipoic acid 25 mg, Lutemax® 2020 lutein 2 mg, lycopene 1 mg, turmeric
root extract 500 mcg, zeaxanthin 400 mcg, astaxanthin 50 mcg, beta-cryptoxanthin
10 mcg, fruit & vegetable blend 15 mg, green tea leaf extract 14 mg,
hyaluronic Acid 1 mg, more...
2 caplets
Vitamin A (50% as beta-Carotene & 50% Retinyl Acetate) 5,000 IU, Vitamin C
(as Ascorbic Acid & Calcium Ascorbate) 200 mg, Vitamin D (as
Cholecalciferol D-3) 1,600 IU, Vitamin E (as Natural d-alpha Tocopheryl
Acetate) 30 IU, Vitamin K (as Phytonadione) 80 mcg, more...
Other Ingredients: Cellulose, Stearic Acid
Vegetable Source, Magnesium Stearate Vegetable Source, Titanium Dioxide
(Natural Mineral Whitener), Talc, Natural Vanilla Mint Flavor, Chlorophyll,
Stevia Leaf Extract.
APPROVED
Puritan's Pride Women's Gummy Multivitamin -
Assorted Natural Fruit Flavors
Mfd. by Puritan's Pride, Inc.
For adults, chew two (2) gummies daily, preferably with a meal.
✔
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: NA
Gluten-free: Not claimed
$0.74/2 gummies
$25.98/70 gummies
Large fruit-shaped gummy
750 mcg RAE
(2,500 IU)
(as retinyl palmitate)
2 mg
9 mcg
30 mg
20 mcg (D3)
(800 IU)
27.3 mg (S)
(30 IU)
NA
680 mcg DFE
(400 mcg folic acid)
NA
Biotin 150 mcg
100 mg
(dicalcium phosphate)
NA
NA
NA
2.5 mg
(zinc citrate)
NA
Iodine 40 mcg
No Artificial Flavor, No Milk, No Lactose, No
Gluten, No Wheat, No Yeast, No Fish, Sodium Free.
2 gummies
Calories 7.5, Total Carbohydrate 1.5 g, Sugars 1 g, Vitamin A (as Retinyl
Palmitate) 2,500 IU, Vitamin C (as Ascorbic Acid) 30 mg, Vitamin D (as D3
Cholecalciferol) 800 IU, Vitamin E (as dl-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate) 30 IU,
Vitamin B-6 (as Pyridoxine Hydrochloride) 2 mg, Folic Acid 400 mcg, more...
Other Ingredients: Sugar, Corn Syrup, Gelatin.
Contains <2% of: Citric Acid, Fractionated Coconut Oil (Contains Carnauba
Wax), Maltodextrin, Mannitol, Natural Flavors, Pectin, Silica, Vegetable Juice
(Color).
NOT APPROVED
Vimerson Health® Women's Multivitamin
Dist. by Vimerson Health®
Take two (2) capsules in the morning with a meal, or as directed
by healthcare professional. For those with a more sensitive constitution, we
recommend taking one (1) capsule per day in the morning with a meal.
Contained half the listed amount of vitamin A, which was mainly from
retinol instead of beta-carotene.
Found only 40.6% of listed folate
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: NA
Gluten-free: Not claimed
$0.60/2 natural capsules
$17.97/60 natural capsules
Large natural capsule
600 mcg RAE - 1,200 mcg RAE
(2,000 IU - 4,000 IU)
(as beta-carotene)
Contained
half the listed amount of vitamin A, which was mainly from retinol instead of
beta-carotene. Contained only 3.5 mcg RAE - 6.9 mcg RAE (5.8 IU - 11.5 IU) from
beta-carotene (0.58% of listed vitamin A). As retinol, found 989.9 mcg RAE -
1,979.7 mcg RAE (297 IU - 593.9 IU).
3.8 mg - 7.5 mg
13.5 mcg - 27 mcg
75 mg - 150 mg
5 mcg - 10 mcg (D3)
(200 IU - 400 IU)
15 mg - 30 mg (S)
(16.7 IU - 33.3 IU)
NA
567 mcg DFE - 1,133.9 mcg DFE
(333.5 mcg - 667 mcg folic acid)
Found only
230.4 mcg DFE - 460.9 mcg DFE (135.6 mcg - 271.1 mcg folic acid) (40.6% of
listed folate)
15 mg NE - 30 mg NE
(15 mg - 30 mg)
(niacinamide)
Thiamin 3.5 mg - 7 mg, riboflavin 3.8 mg - 7.5 mg, biotin 150 mcg
- 300 mcg, pantothenic acid 5 mg - 10 mg
25 mg - 50 mg
(calcium carbonate)
NA
25 mg - 50 mg
(magnesium oxide)
NA
7.5 mg - 15 mg
(zinc oxide)
1 mg - 2 mg
(copper gluconate)
Selenium 15 mcg - 30 mcg, manganese 1 mg - 2 mg, chromium 60 mcg-
120 mcg, molybdenum 37.5 mcg - 75 mcg
2 natural capsules
Female support 192 mcg, antioxidant fruit & energy blend 187 mg, immune
Blend 115 mg
Zero Hormones, Antibiotics, Preservatives, Binders, Cholesterol, Yeast,
Sugar, Artificial Flavors.
2 natural capsules
Vitamin A (as Beta-Carotene) 1,200 mcg, Vitamin C (as Ascorbic Acid) 150 mg,
Vitamin D (as Cholecalciferol) 10 mcg, Vitamin E (as Dl-Alpha Tocopheryl
Acetate) 30 mg, Thiamin (as Thiamine Mononitrate) 7 mg, Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)
7.5 mg, Niacin (as Niacinamide) 30 mg, Vitamin D6 (as Pyridoxine HCl) 7.5 mg,
Folate (as Folic Acid) 667 mcg, more...
Other Ingredients: Vegetable Cellulose (Veggie Capsule).
APPROVED
Walgreens Multivitamin Gummies Women's
Dist. by Walgreen Co.
Chew two (2) gummies daily with the meal of your choice.
✔
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: NA
Gluten-free: Not claimed
$0.19/2 gummies
$14.49/150 gummies
Large gummy
750 mcg RAE
(2,500 IU)
(as retinyl palmitate)
2 mg
9 mcg
30 mg
20 mcg (D3)
(800 IU)
13.5 mg (S)
(14.9 IU)
NA
666 mcg DFE
(400 mcg folic acid)
NA
Biotin 150 mcg
100 mg
(dicalcium phosphate)
NA
NA
NA
2.5 mg
(zinc citrate)
NA
Iodine 40 mcg
No Yeast, No Wheat, No Gluten, No Milk Or Milk
Derivatives, No Lactose, No Artificial Flavor, No Sodium.
2 gummies
Calories 15, Total Carbohydrate 3 g, Total Sugars [Includes 2 g Added Sugars] 2
g, Vitamin A (as Retinyl Palmitate) 750 mcg, Vitamin C (as Ascorbic Acid) 30
mg, Vitamin D (as D3 Cholecalciferol) 20 mcg (800 IU), Vitamin E (as dl-Alpha
Tocopheryl Acetate) 13.5 mcg, more...
Other Ingredients: Sugar, Corn Syrup, Gelatin.
Contains <2% of: Citric Acid, Fractionated Coconut Oil (Contains Carnauba
Wax), Maltodextrin, Mannitol, Natural Flavors, Pectin, Silica, Vegetable Juice
(Color).
Women 50+ Products:
APPROVED
Top Pick
for Women 50+
Bayer One A Day® Women's 50+
Dist. by Bayer HealthCare LLC
Adults: One tablet daily, with food.
✔
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: ✔
Gluten-free: Not claimed
$0.14/tablet
$9.37/65 tablets
Large tablet
1,050 mcg RAE
(3,500 IU)
(20% as beta-carotene)
6 mg
25 mcg
120 mg
25 mcg (D3)
(1,000 IU)
27 mg (S)
(30 IU)
NA
680 mcg DFE
(400 mcg folic acid)
20 mg NE (20 mg)
(niacinamide)
Thiamin 4.5 mg, riboflavin 3.4 mg, biotin 30 mcg, pantothenic acid
15 mg
300 mg
(calcium carbonate)
NA
50 mg
(magnesium oxide)
NA
24 mg
(zinc oxide)
2.2 mg
(cupric oxide)
Iodine 150 mcg, selenium 27 mcg, manganese 4.2 mg, chromium 180
mcg, molybdenum 90 mcg
None.
1 tablet
Vitamin A (20% as beta-carotene) 3,500 IU, Vitamin C 120 mg, Vitamin D (as
Vitamin D3) 1,000 IU, Vitamin E 30 IU, Vitamin K 20 mcg, Thiamin (B1) 4.5 mg,
Riboflavin (B2) 3.4 mg, Niacin 20 mg, Vitamin B6 mg, Folic Acid 400 mcg,
Vitamin B12 25 mcg, Biotin 30 mcg, Pantothenic Acid 15 mg, Calcium (elemental)
300 mg, Iron 0 mg, more...
Ingredients: Calcium Carbonate, Microcrystalline
Cellulose, Ascorbic Acid, Magnesium Oxide, Maltodextrin, Zinc Oxide, dl-Alpha-Tocopheryl
Acetate, Croscarmellose Sodium; Less than 2% of: Artificial Flavors,
Beta-Carotene, Biotin, Cholecalciferol, Chromium Chloride, Cupric Oxide,
Cyanocobalamin, D-Calcium Pantothenate, more...
APPROVED
GNC Women's Ultra Mega® 50 Plus One Daily
Dist. by General Nutrition Corporation
Take one caplet daily with food.
✔
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: ✔
Gluten-free: Not claimed
$0.17/caplet
$9.99/60 caplets
Large caplet
1,050 mcg RAE
(3,500 IU)
(as retinyl acetate)
6.6 mg
110 mcg
150 mg
30 mcg (D3)
(1,200 IU)
23.5 mg (N)
(35 IU)
60 mcg (K1)
1,020 mcg DFE
(600 mcg folic acid)
22 mg NE (22 mg)
(niacinamide)
Thiamin 4.95 mg, riboflavin 3.74 mg, biotin 300 mcg, pantothenic
acid 16.5 mg, inositol 2.5 mg
500 mg
(calcium carbonate, dicalcium phosphate)
8 mg
(ferrous fumarate)
50 mg
(magnesium oxide)
80 mg
(potassium chloride)
30 mg
(zinc oxide)
2 mg
(cupric oxide)
Phosphorus 15 mg, iodine 150 mcg, selenium 70 mcg, manganese 2 mg,
chromium 200 mcg, molybdenum 75 mcg, chloride 72 mg, boron 150 mcg, tin 10 mcg,
vanadium 10 mcg, nickel 5 mcg, silica 2 mg
1 caplet
Ginkgo biloba leaf extract 10 mg, phosphatidylserine 2.5 mg, choline 2.5 mg,
Lutemax® 2020 lutein 1 mg, cranberry fruit concentrate 10 mg, collagen
hydrolysate 5 mg, zeaxanthin 200 mcg
1 caplet
Vitamin A (as Retinyl Acetate) 3,500 IU, Vitamin C (as Ascorbic Acid) 150 mg,
Vitamin D (as Cholecalciferol D-3) 1,200 IU, Vitamin E (as Natural d-Tocopheryl
Succinate) 35 IU, Vitamin K (as Phytonadione) 60 mcg, Thiamin (Vitamin B-1) (as
Thiamin Mononitrate) 4.95 mg, more...
Other Ingredients: Microcrystalline Cellulose,
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, Croscarmellose Sodium, Stearic Acid Vegetable
Source, Hydroxypropyl-
cellulose, Titanium Dioxide (Mineral Whitener), Polydextrose, Magnesium
Stearate Vegetable Source, Natural Vanilla Mint Flavor, more...
NOT APPROVED
The Vitamin Shoppe® Ultimate Woman® 50+
Dist. by Vitamin Shoppe, Inc.
Take three (3) tablets daily, preferably with meals.
Contained only 52.6% of the listed amount of vitamin A due to a lack
of claimed beta-carotene.
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: ✔
Gluten-free: Not claimed
$0.43/3 tablets
$25.99/180 tablets
Medium/large tablet
1,500 mcg RAE
(5,000 IU)
(50% as beta-carotene)
Contained
only 52.6% of the listed amount of vitamin A due to a lack of claimed
beta-carotene.
Found 21.8 mcg RAE (72.8 IU) from beta carotene and 767.7 mcg RAE (2,558.9 IU)
from retinol.
25 mg
25 mcg
100 mg
25 mcg (D3)
(1,000 IU)
25 mg (N)
(30 IU)
45 mcg (K2)
1,333 mcg DFE
(800 mcg folic acid)
20 mg NE (20 mg)
(niacinamide)
Thiamin 10 mg, riboflavin 10 mg, biotin 600 mcg, pantothenic acid
10 mg, inositol 25 mg
300 mg
(calcium carbonate, Active C®, dicalcium phosphate)
NA
150 mg
(magnesium oxide, Active C®)
NA
15 mg
(zinc citrate, Active C®)
2 mg
(copper glycinate chelate)
Iodine 150 mcg, selenium 55 mcg, manganese 2 mg, chromium 120 mcg,
molybdenum 75 mcg, silica 25 mg, boron 3mg, vanadium 10 mcg
3 tablets
Choline 20 mg, ginkgo biloba extract 120 mg, cranberry concentrate 100 mg,
alpha lipoic acid 50 mg, coenzyme Q-10 50 mg, lutein 5 mg
Gluten free. Soy free. Dairy free. Nut free. Does not contain: Gluten, Salt,
Preservatives, Artificial Colors or Flavors.
3 tablets
Vitamin A (as 50% beta carotene and 50% retinyl palmitate) 1,500 mcg RAE (5,000
IU), Vitamin C (as Active C® (as Tri-Scorb™ Proprietary Blend (as calcium
ascorbate, magnesium ascorbate and zinc ascorbate))) 100 mg, Vitamin D3 (as
cholecalciferol) 25 mcg, more...
Other Ingredients: Microcrystalline cellulose,
stearic acid, croscarmellose sodium, magnesium stearate, aqueous coating,
vanilla flavor.
Prenatal Products:
APPROVED
Top Pick
for Prenatal
Deva® Prenatal One Daily
Dist. by Deva Nutrition LLC
For adults, take one (1) tablet daily with food or as directed by
a doctor.
✔
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: ✔
Gluten-free: Not claimed
$0.12/coated tablet
$10.35/90 coated tablets
Medium/large coated tablet
1,125 mcg RAE
(3,750 IU)
(as beta-carotene)
12.5 mg
100 mcg
120 mg
10 mcg (D2)
(400 IU)
20.1 mg (N)
(30 IU)
20 mcg (K1)
935 mcg DFE
(550 mcg folic acid)
45 mg NE (45 mg>UL)
(niacinamide)
Thiamin 12.5 mg, riboflavin 12.5, biotin 150 mcg, pantothenic acid
25 mg, inositol 10 mg
120 mg
(calcium carbonate, dicalcium phosphate)
21 mg
(amino acid chelate)
40 mg
(magnesium oxide)
NA
15 mg
(zinc oxide)
2 mg
(copper gluconate)
Iodine 150 mcg, selenium 70 mcg, manganese 2 mg, chromium 120 mcg,
molybdenum 75 mcg, boron 1 mg
1 coated tablet
Choline 50 mg, lutein 50 mcg, cinnamon 10 mg, citrus bioflavonoid complex 10
mg, apple pectin 10 mg, betaine HCl 10 mg, alfalfa 5 mg, chamomile 5 mg, rose
hips 5 mg, acerola extract 500 mcg
This product does NOT contain animal products, derivatives or byproducts.
100% Vegetarian, Vegan.
1 coated tablet
Vitamin A (as beta carotene) 3,750 IU, Vitamin C (as ascorbic acid) 120 mg,
Vitamin D2 (as ergocalciferol) 400 IU, Vitamin E (as d-alpha tocopheryl) 30 IU,
Vitamin K (as phytonadione) 20 mcg, Vitamin B1 (as thiamine mononitrate) 12.5
mg, Vitamin B2 (as riboflavin) 12.5 mg, Vitamin B3 (as niacinamide) 45 mg, more...
Other Ingredients: Cellulose, croscarmellose
sodium, vegetable stearic acid, vegetable magnesium stearate, silica, vitamin
B2 (riboflavin) coating.
NOT APPROVED
New Chapter® Perfect Prenatal™ Multivitamin
Dist. by New Chapter, Inc.
Three tablets.
Failed for many reasons: Did not disintegrate on time, too little
vitamin A and too much iron and iodine.
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: Required 80 minutes to fully disintegrate
Gluten-free: Claimed
$1.37/3 vegetarian tablets
$21.99/48 vegetarian tablets
Large vegetarian tablet
1,300 mcg RAE
(4,333.3 IU)
(as beta-carotene)
Found 215.5
mcg RAE (718.4 IU) (16.6% of listed vitamin A)
5 mg
3 mcg
75 mg
25 mcg (D3)
(1,000 IU)
20.9 mg (S)
(31.2 IU)
90 mcg (K1 and K2 MK-7)
540 mcg DFE
(105 mcg folic acid and 361.5 mcg methylfolate)
18 mg NE (18 mg)
(niacinamide)
Thiamin 1.4 mg, riboflavin 1.6 mg, biotin 35 mcg, pantothenic acid
7 mg
75 mg
(from algae Lithothamnion calcareum)
27
(ferrous fumarate)
Found 37.3
mg (138% of listed amount)
15 mg
(magnesium oxide)
NA
6.5 mg
(zinc oxide)
0.7 mg
(copper sulfate anhydrous)
Iodine 150 mcg, selenium 70 mcg, copper 0.65 mg, manganese 2.6 mg,
chromium 45 mcg, molybdenum 20 mcg
Found 287.7
mcg iodine (191.8% of listed amount)
3 vegetarian tablets
Prenatal herbal blend 225 mg, cruciferous sprouts blend 100 mg, ginger extract
62 mg, organic turmeric 38.25 mg
Non GMO Project Verified seal. NSF Certified Gluten-Free seal. 100%
vegetarian, more...
3 vegetarian tablets
Vitamin A (100% as beta-carotene from ferment media) 1,300 mcg, Vitamin C (as
ascorbic acid from ferment media) 75 mg, Vitamin D3 (as cholecalciferol from
ferment media) 25 mcg, Vitamin E (as d-alpha-tocopheryl acetate from ferment
media) 20.9 mg, more...
Other Ingredients: Ferment media (organic soy
flour, organic gum acacia, organic Saccharomyces cerevisiae, organic
maltodextrin, organic orange peel powder, organic molasses, organic carrot
powder, papain (deactivated), more...
NOT APPROVED
Rainbow Light® Prenatal One
Mfd. by Nature's Products, Inc.
Take one tablet per day, with or between meals, while trying to
conceive, pregnant or nursing.
Found only 17.4% of listed vitamin A and 188% of listed iodine
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: ✔
Gluten-free: Claimed
$0.36/tablet
$32.04/90 tablets
Large tablet
1,305 mcg RAE
(4,350 IU)
(as beta-carotene)
Found only
277.2 mcg RAE (923.9 IU) vitamin A (17.4% of listed amount)
10 mg
9 mcg
65 mg
15 mcg (D2)
(600 IU)
9.5 mg (N)
(14.2 IU)
90 mcg (K1)
612 mcg DFE
(360 mcg folic acid)
18 mg NE (18 mg)
(niacinamide)
Thiamin 8 mg, riboflavin 8 mg, biotin 35 mcg, pantothenic 10 mg,
inositol 10 mg
50 mg
(calcium citrate)
27 mg
(iron amino acid chelate)
50 mg
(marine magnesium extract from sea water)
NA
13 mg
(zinc citrate)
1.3 mg
(copper amino acid chelate)
Iodine 290 mcg, selenium 70 mcg, manganese 2 mg, molybdenum 50
mcg, boron 1 mg
Found 545.2
mcg iodine (188% of listed amount)
1 tablet
Organic rainbow vibrant foods blend 125 mg, digestive support blend 32 mg,
citrus bioflavonoids 25 mg, organic chlorella 25 mg
Vegetarian. Gluten-Free. Made with purity-tested ingredients and No
artificial preservatives, colors, more...
1 tablet
Vitamin A (as beta-carotene) 1,305 mcg, Vitamin C (as ascorbic acid) 65 mg,
Vitamin D (as ergocalciferol) 15 mcg, Vitamin E (as d-alpha tocopheryl
succinate) 9.5 mg, Vitamin K (as phytonadione) 90 mcg, Thiamin (as thiamin
mononitrate) 8 mg, Riboflavin (vitamin B2) 8 mg, more...
Other Ingredients: Microcrystalline cellulose,
croscarmellose sodium, magnesium stearate, coating (hydroxypropyl cellulose,
hypromellose), silica, stearic acid.
Men's Products:
NOT APPROVED
CVS Health™ Men's Daily Gummies
Dist. by CVS Pharmacy, Inc.
Adults chew two (2) gummies daily.
Found 204.3% of listed folate
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: NA
Gluten-free: Claimed
$0.23/2 gummies
$7.99/70 gummies
Large berry-shaped gummy
1,200 mcg RAE
(4,000 IU)
(as retinyl acetate)
5 mg
15 mcg
75 mg
20 mcg (D3)
(800 IU)
27 mg (S)
(30 IU)
NA
680 mcg DFE
(400 mcg folic acid)
Found only
1,388.9 mcg DFE (817 mcg folic acid) (204.3% of listed folate)
NA
Biotin 600 mcg, pantothenic acid 10 mg, inositol 40 mcg
NA
NA
NA
NA
5
(zinc sulfate)
NA
Iodine 150 mcg, selenium 110 mcg
2 gummies
Choline 60 mcg
No preservatives. Free from wheat (gluten), milk, eggs, peanuts.
2 gummies
Calories 10, Total Carbohydrate 3 g, Sugars 2 g, Vitamin A 4,000 IU, Vitamin C
75 mg, Vitamin D 400 IU, Vitamin E 30 IU, Vitamin B6 5 mg, Folic Acid 400 mcg,
Vitamin B12 15 mcg, Biotin 600 mcg, Pantothenic Acid 10 mg, Iodine 150 mcg,
Zinc 5 mg, Selenium 110 mcg, Choline 60 mcg, Inositol 40 mcg.
Ingredients: Glucose Syrup, Sucrose, Gelatin,
Ascorbic Acid, D-Calcium Pantothenate, DL-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate, Natural
Flavors, Zinc Sulfate, Citric Acid, Colors Added (Black Carrot Juice
Concentrate, Maqui Berry Juice Concentrate), Lactic Acid, Fractionated Coconut
Oil, more...
APPROVED
GNC Mega Men® Sport
Dist. by General Nutrition Corporation
Take two caplets daily with food.
✔
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: NA
Gluten-free: ✔
$0.51/2 caplets
$22.99/90 caplets
Large caplet
1,500 mcg RAE
(5,000 IU)
(50% as beta-carotene)
50 mg
50 mcg
300 mg
40 mcg (D3)
(1,600 IU)
20.1 mg (N)
(30 IU)
80 mcg (K1)
680 mcg DFE
(400 mcg folic acid)
50 mg NE (50 mg>UL)
(niacin, niacinamide)
Thiamin 50 mg, riboflavin 50 mg, biotin 300 mcg, pantothenic acid
50 mg, inositol 10 mg
200 mg
(calcium carbonate, calcium ascorbate)
NA
100 mg
(magnesium oxide)
80 mg
(potassium chloride)
25 mg
(zinc oxide)
2 mg
(copper sulfate)
Iodine 150 mcg, selenium 200 mcg, manganese 2 mg, chromium 120
mcg, molybdenum 75 mcg, chloride 72 mg, vanadium 10 mcg
2 caplets
CarnoSyn® beta-alanine 10 mg, taurine 10 mg, choline 10 mg, MSM
(Methylsulfonyl-methane) 10 mg, L-carnitine 6 mg, celery juice concentrate 1.9
mg, hyaluronic acid 1 mg, alpha-lipoic acid 25 mg, Lutemax® 2020 lutein 2 mg,
lycopene 1 mg, more...
2 caplets
Vitamin A (50% as beta-Carotene & 50% Retinyl Acetate) 5,000 IU, Vitamin C
(as Ascorbic Acid & Calcium Ascorbate) 300 mg, Vitamin D (as
Cholecalciferol D-3) 1,600 IU, Vitamin E (as Natural d-alpha Tocopheryl
Acetate) 30 IU, Vitamin K (as Phytonadione) 80 mcg, more...
Other Ingredients: Cellulose, Stearic Acid
Vegetable Source, Magnesium Stearate Vegetable Source, Titanium Dioxide
(Natural Mineral Whitener), Natural Vanilla Mint Flavor, Talc, Caramel Color,
Stevia Leaf Extract.
NOT APPROVED
Innate® Men's 40+ Multivitamin
Mfd. by Innate Response
2 tablets daily, or as directed by your healthcare practitioner.
Found 194.5% of listed folate
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: ✔
Gluten-free: Claimed
$1.30/2 tablets
$38.96/60 tablets
Large tablet
1,050 mcg RAE
(3,500 IU)
(as beta-carotene)
6 mg
12 mcg
200 mg
25 mcg (D3)
(1,000 IU)
20.1 mg (N)
(30 IU)
60 mcg (K1 and K2 MK-7)
340 mcg DFE
(200 mcg 5-MTHF)
Found 661.2
mcg DFE (389 mcg folic acid) (194.5% of listed folate)
20 mg NE (20 mg)
(niacinamide)
Thiamin 2 mg, riboflavin 2 mg, biotin 250 mcg, pantothenic acid 10
mg
NA
NA
NA
2 mg
(mineral bound to S. cerevisiae)
15 mg
(from rice amino acid chelate)
0.2 mg
(mineral bound to S. cerevisiae)
Iodine 150 mcg, selenium 50 mcg, manganese 1.5 mg, chromium 120
mcg, molybdenum 55 mcg
2 tablets
Choline 200 mg
Non GMO. Tested Gluten Free. Vegetarian. Tested Free Pesticides &
Herbicides. Soy Free. Dairy Free. Kosher.
2 tablets
Vitamin A (beta carotene in carrot) 3,500 IU, Vitamin C (ascorbic acid in
organic orange) 200 mg, Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol in S. cerevisiae) 1,000 IU,
Vitamin E (mixed tocopherols [sunflower] in organic brown rice) 30 IU, Vitamin
K1/K2 (phytonadione/ menaquinone-7 in cabbage) 60 mcg, more...
Other Ingredients: Silica, Stearic Acid, Plant
Cellulose.
NOT APPROVED
MegaFood® Men's One Daily
Mfd. by MegaFood
1 tablet daily.
Found 257.1% of listed vitamin A
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: Required 45 minutes to fully disintegrate
Gluten-free: Claimed
$0.60/tablet
$36.12/60 tablets
Large tablet
375 mcg RAE
(1,250 IU)
(as beta-carotene)
Found only
964.1 mcg RAE (3,213.6 IU) (257.1% of listed vitamin A)
3 mg
15 mcg
60 mg
10 mcg (D3)
(400 IU)
10 mg (N)
(14.9 IU)
32 mcg (K1)
680 mcg DFE
(400 mcg folic acid)
20 mg NE (20 mg)
(niacinamide)
Thiamin 4 mg, riboflavin 3 mg, biotin 120 mcg, pantothenic acid 10
mg
NA
NA
NA
NA
15 mg
(mineral bound to S. cerevisiae)
0.1 mg
(mineral bound to S. cerevisiae)
Iodine 60 mcg, selenium 32 mcg, manganese 0.1 mg, chromium 60 mcg,
molybdenum 20 mcg, boron 500 mcg
1 tablet
Nourishing food & herb blend® 83 mg
Non GMO Project Verified seal. Glyphosate Residue Free. Pesticides &
Herbicides. NSF Certified Gluten-Free seal. Vegetarian. Kosher. Diary Free. Soy
Free.
1 tablet
Vitamin A (beta carotene with carrot) 375 mcg RAE, Vitamin C (ascorbic acid
with organic orange) 60 mg, Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol with S.
cerevisiae) 10 mcg, Vitamin E (d-alpha tocopherol [sunflower] with organic
brown rice) 10 mg, more...
Other Ingredients: Stearic Acid, Silica,
Cellulose.
APPROVED
Top Pick
for Men's
Nature Made® Men's Multi
Dist. by Nature Made Nutritional Products
Adults, take 1 softgel daily with water and a meal.
✔
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: NA
Gluten-free: Claimed
$0.15/softgel
$9.08/60 softgels
Very large softgel
750 mcg RAE
(2,500 IU)
(as beta-carotene)
4 mg
18 mcg
60 mg
25 mcg (D3)
(1,000 IU)
22.5 mg (S)
(25 IU)
40 mcg (K1)
665 mcg DFE
(400 mcg folic acid)
20 mg NE (20 mg)
(niacinamide)
Thiamin 1.5 mg, riboflavin 1.7 mg, biotin 30 mcg, pantothenic acid
10 mg
100 mg
(calcium carbonate)
NA
40 mg
(magnesium oxide)
NA
15 mg
(zinc oxide)
2 mg
(cupric oxide)
Iodine 150 mcg, selenium 40 mcg, manganese 4 mg, chromium 120 mcg,
molybdenum 45 mcg
No Artificial Flavors. Gluten Free.
1 softgel
Calories 10, Total Fat 1 g, Protein less than 1 g, Vitamin A (as Beta Carotene)
750 mcg, Vitamin C (as Ascorbic Acid) 60 mg, Vitamin D3 (as Cholecalciferol) 25
mcg (1,000 IU), Vitamin E (as dl-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate) 22.5 mg, Vitamin K
(as Phytonadione) 40 mcg, Thiamin (as Thiamine Mononitrate) 1.5 mg, Riboflavin
1.7 mg, more...
Other Ingredients: Soybean Oil, Gelatin,
Glycerin, Dibasic Calcium Phosphate, Yellow Beeswax, Rapeseed Lecithin, Water,
Color Added, Yellow 6, Red 40, Blue 1.
Men 50+ Products:
APPROVED
GNC Mega Men® 50 Plus
Dist. by General Nutrition Corporation
Take two caplets daily with food.
✔
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: NA
Gluten-free: ✔
$0.83/2 caplets
$24.99/60 caplets
Large caplet
1,500 mcg RAE
(5,000 IU)
(50% as beta-carotene)
50 mg
50 mcg
300 mg
40 mcg (D3)
(1,600 IU)
20.1 mg (N)
(30 IU)
80 mcg (K1)
680 mcg DFE
(400 mcg folic acid)
50 mg NE (50 mg>UL)
(niacin, niacinamide)
Thiamin 50 mg, riboflavin 50 mg, biotin 300 mcg, pantothenic acid
50 mg, inositol 10 mg
200 mg
(calcium carbonate, calcium ascorbate)
NA
100 mg
(magnesium oxide)
NA
25 mg
(zinc oxide)
2 mg
(copper sulfate)
Iodine 150 mcg, selenium 200 mcg, manganese 2 mg, chromium 120
mcg, molybdenum 75 mcg, boron 2 mg, vanadium 10 mcg
2 caplets
Ginkgo biloba leaf powder, Bacopa monnieri leaf
extract, and phosphatidyl blend 10 mg, choline 10 mg, grape seed extract 1 mg],
saw palmetto berries extract, nettle leaf powder, and pumpkin seed powder blend
160 mg, L-arginine 100 mg, resveratrol 1 mg, more...
2 caplets
Vitamin A (50% as beta-Carotene & 50% Retinyl Acetate) 5,000 IU, Vitamin C
(as Ascorbic Acid & Calcium Ascorbate) 300 mg, Vitamin D (as
Cholecalciferol D-3) 1,600 IU, Vitamin E (as Natural d-alpha Tocopheryl
Acetate) 30 IU, Vitamin K (as Phytonadione) 80 mg, more...
Other Ingredients: Cellulose, Stearic Acid
Vegetable Source, Titanium Dioxide (Natural Mineral Whitener), Natural Vanilla
Mint Flavor, Talc, Caramel Color, Stevia Leaf Extract.
APPROVED
Top Pick
for Men 50+
Member's Mark [Sam's Club] Men 50+ Multivitamin
Dist. by Sam's West, Inc.
Adults - One tablet daily with food as a dietary supplement.
DISCOUNTEDⓘ
✔
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: ✔
Gluten-free: Claimed
$0.03/tablet
$12.48/400 tablets
Medium/large tablet
1,050 mcg RAE
(3,500 IU)
(29% as beta-carotene)
6 mg
100 mcg
120 mg
25 mcg (D3)
(1,000 IU)
54 mg (S)
(60 IU)
60 mcg (K1)
510 mcg DFE
(300 mcg folic acid)
20 mg NE (20 mg)
(nicotinamide)
Thiamin 1.5 mg, riboflavin 1.7 mg, biotin 30 mcg, pantothenic acid
10 mg
210 mg
(calcium carbonate, dicalcium phosphate)
NA
75 mg
(magnesium oxide)
80 mg
(potassium chloride)
15 mg
(zinc oxide)
0.5 mg
(cupric sulfate)
Phosphorus 20 mg, iodine 150 mcg, selenium 21 mcg, manganese 4 mg,
chromium 60 mcg, molybdenum 50 mcg, chloride 72 mg, nickel 5 mcg, silicon 2 mg,
vanadium 10 mcg
1 tablet
Lutein 300 mcg, lycopene 600 mcg
No Artificial Flavors. No Lactose. Gluten Free.
Precaution: May contain ascorbyl palmitate, carnauba wax, cellulose
gum, povidone, sodium selenate.
1 tablet
Vitamin A (29% as beta-carotene) 3,500 IU, Vitamin C 120 mg, Vitamin D3 1,000
IU, Vitamin E 60 IU, Vitamin K 60 mcg, Thiamin 1.5 mg, Riboflavin 1.7 mg,
Niacin 20 mg, Vitamin B6 6 mg, Folate 300 mcg, Vitamin B12 100 mcg, Biotin 30
mcg, Pantothenic Acid 10 mg, Calcium 210 mg, Phosphorus 20 mg, Iodine 150 mcg, more...
Ingredients: Calcium Carbonate, Potassium
Chloride, Magnesium Oxide, Ascorbic Acid, Dicalcium Phosphate, Microcrystalline
Cellulose, Maltodextrin, dl-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate, Gelatin. Contains 2% of
less of beta-carotene, BHT, biotin, carboxymethyl-
cellulose sodium, cholecalciferol, more...
Diabetes (Adult) Products:
APPROVED
Top Pick
for Diabetes (Adult)
Multi-betic® Diabetes Multi-Vitamin
Dist. by Akorn Consumer Health
Adults, take two (2) caplets with breakfast, or as directed by a
healthcare professional.
✔
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: ✔
Gluten-free: Claimed
$0.41/2 caplets
$12.24/60 caplets
Large caplet
2,7500 mcg RAE
(5,000 IU)
(% as beta-carotene not provided)
5 mg
100 mcg
250 mg
10 mcg (D3)
(400 IU)
67 mg (N)
(100 IU)
NA
667 mcg DFE
(400 mcg folic acid)
40 mg NE (40 mg>UL)
(niacinamide)
Thiamin 3 mg, riboflavin 3.4 mg, biotin 300 mcg, pantothenic acid
20 mg
NA
NA
200 mg
(magnesium oxide)
100 mg
(potassium chloride)
15 mg
(zinc glycinate)
2 mg
(copper gluconate)
Selenium 70 mcg, manganese 5 mg, chromium 200 mcg, vanadium 200
mcg
2 caplets
Alpha lipoic acid 100 mg, lycopene 3 mg, lutein 1 mg
Free of: sugar, milk or milk by-products, egg or egg by-products, fish or
fish by-products, shellfish or shellfish by-products, tree nuts, wheat or wheat
by-products, peanuts or peanut by-products, soybeans and soy by-products, and
gluten.
2 caplets
Vitamin A (as palmitate and beta-carotene) 2,750 mcg (5,000 IU), Vitamin C (as
calcium ascorbate & ascorbic acid) 250 mg, Vitamin D (cholecalciferol) 10
mcg (400 IU), Alpha Tocopherol (natural Vitamin E) (d-alpha tocopheryl acid
succinate) 67 mg (100 IU), Thiamine (Vitamin B1) (thiamine mononitrate) 3 mg, more...
Other Ingredients: Microcrystalline cellulose,
croscarmellose sodium, dicalcium phosphate, corn starch, povidone, silicon
dioxide, hypromellose, magnesium stearate, gelatin, talc, curcumin powder,
dl-alpha tocopherol, polyethylene glycol, triacetin, ascorbyl palmitate and
carnauba wax.
Children's Products:
APPROVED
Top Pick
for Children's
Bayer Flintstones™ Complete
Dist. by Bayer HealthCare LLC
Children 2 & 3 years of age: Fully chew one-half tablet daily, with
food. Adults and children 4 years of age and older: Fully chew one tablet
daily, with food.
May no longer be gluten freeⓘ
✔
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: NA
Gluten-free: Claimed [Update (11/30/20): New formulation may not be
gluten-free. May contain wheat.]
$0.12/chewable tablet
$17.87/150 chewable tablets
Large Flintstone-shaped chewable tablet
450 mcg RAE - 900 mcg RAE
(1,500 IU - 3,000 IU)
(33% as beta-carotene)
1 mg - 2 mg
3 mcg - 6 mcg
30 mg - 60 mg
7.5 mcg - 15 mcg (D3)
(300 IU - 600 IU)
13.5 mg - 27 mg (S)
(15 IU - 30 IU)
27.5 mcg - 55 mcg (K1)
340 mcg DFE - 680 mcg DFE
(200 mcg - 400 mcg>UL folic
acid)
7.5 mg NE -15 mg NE (7.5 mg - 15 mg=UL)
(niacinamide)
Thiamin 0.75 mg - 1.5 mg, riboflavin 0.85 mg - 1.7 mg, biotin 20
mcg - 40 mcg, pantothenic acid 5 mg - 10 mg
50 mg - 100 mg
(calcium carbonate)
9 mg - 18 mg
(ferrous fumarate)
NA
NA
6 mg - 12 mg
(zinc oxide)
1 mg - 2 mg>UL
(cupric oxide)
Iodine 75 mcg - 150 mcg, sodium 5 mg - 10 mg
No Sugar. No High Fructose Corn Syrup.
Gluten-Free.
Precaution: Contains: Soy.
1 chewable tablet
Total Carbohydrate <1 g, Sugar 0 g, Vitamin A (33% as beta-carotene) 3,000
IU, Vitamin C 60 mg, Vitamin D 600 IU, Vitamin E 30 IU, Vitamin K 55 mcg,
Thiamin (B1) 1.5 mg, Riboflavin (B2) 1.7 mg, Niacin 15 mg, Vitamin B6 2 mg,
Folic Acid 400 mcg, Vitamin B12 6 mcg, Biotin 40 mcg, Pantothenic Acid 10 mg, Calcium
100 mg, Iron 18 mg, Iodine 150 mcg, Zinc 12 mg, Copper 2 mg, Sodium 10 mg.
Ingredients: Granulated Calcium Carbonate
(Calcium Carbonate, Dextrose Monohydrate, Sugar, Maltodextrin, Microcrystalline
Cellulose), Sorbitol, Sodium Ascorbate, Ferrous Fumarate, Natural and
Artificial Flavoring, Pregelatinized Starch, dl-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate; Less
Than 2% Of: Beta-Carotene, Biotin, Calcium Pantothenate, Cholecalciferol,
Cupric Oxide, Cyanocobalamin, FD&C Blue #2 Aluminum Lake, more...
APPROVED
Metagenics® Multigenics® Chewables - Outrageous
Orange Flavor
Mfd. by Metagenics
Children 2 to 4 years: Take one tablet. Children 4 to 7 years:
Take one tablet one to two times daily. Children over 7 and adults:
Take one tablet three times daily or as directed by your healthcare
practitioner.
✔
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: NA
Gluten-free: Claimed
$0.33/chewable tablet
$29.75/90 chewable tablets
Medium/large circular chewable tablet
750 mcg RAE - 2,250 mcg RAE>UL
(2,500 IU - 7,500 IU)
(50% as beta-carotene)
1.4 mg - 4.2 mg
6 mcg - 18 mcg
100 mg - 300 mg
2.5 mcg - 7.5 mcg (D3)
(100 IU - 300 IU)
13.4 mg - 40.2 mg (N)
(20 IU - 60 IU)
NA
510 mcg DFE - 1,530 mcg DFE
(300 mcg=UL - 900 mcg>UL L-5-methyl-tertahydrofolate)
20 mg NE - 60 mg NE (20 mg>UL - 60 mg>UL)
(niacinamide)
Thiamin 1.4 mg - 4.2 mg, riboflavin 1.6 mg - 4.8 mg, biotin 38 mcg
- 114 mcg, pantothenic acid 10 mg - 30 mg
15 mg - 45 mg
(calcium citrate malate)
2 mg - 6 mg
(iron glycinate)
15 mg - 45 mg
(magnesium citrate, magnesium ascorbate)
NA
2 mg - 6 mg
(zinc gluconate)
0.1 mg - 0.3 mg
(copper gluconate)
Iodine 70 mcg - 210 mcg, manganese 0.2 mg - 0.6 mg
1 chewable tablet
Quercetin 2 mg, mixed carotenoids 825 mcg
This product is non-GMO and gluten-free.
1 chewable tablet
Calories 5, Total Carbohydrate 1 g, Sugars <1 g, Sugar Alcohol <1 g,
Vitamin A [50% (1,250 IU) as retinyl acetate and 50% (1,250 IU) as
beta-carotene and mixed carotenoids] 2,500 IU, Vitamin C (as magnesium
ascorbate and ascorbic acid) 100 mg, Vitamin D (as cholecalciferol) 100 IU,
Vitamin E (as d-alpha tocopheryl acetate) 20 IU, Thiamin (as thiamin
mononitrate) 1.4 mg, more...
Other Ingredients: Fructose, xylitol, sorbitol,
stearic acid (vegetable), natural flavors, silica, guar gum, mono- and
diglycerides, malic acid, and citric acid.
APPROVED
Smarty Pants® Multi and Omega 3s
Dist. by Smarty Pants, Inc.
For children 4 years of age and older, take four (4) gummies daily.
✔
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: NA
Gluten-free: Not claimed
$0.55/4 gummies
$16.56/120 gummies
Medium/large gumdrop-shaped gummy
180 mcg RAE
(600 IU)
(50% as beta-carotene)
1 mg
1.8 mcg
45 mg
20 mcg (D3)
(800 IU)
6.6 mg (N)
(9.9 IU)
20 mcg (K1 and K2 MK-7)
250 mcg DFE
(150 mcg L-methylfolate)
NA
Thiamin 0.1 mg, riboflavin 0.16 mg, biotin 16 mcg, pantothenic
acid 0.375 mg, inositol 2 mg
NA
NA
NA
NA
1.6 mg
(zinc citrate USP)
NA
Iodine 90 mcg, sodium 15 mg
4 gummies
Choline 12 mg, fish oil 340 mg
IFOS™ seal. igen® Non-GMO Tested seal.
4 gummies
Calories 30, Cholesterol <5 mg, Total Carbohydrate 7 g, Sugars [Includes 5 g
Added Sugars] 5 g, Vitamin A (as 50% beta-carotene, retinyl palmitate USP) 180
mcg, Vitamin C (as ascorbic acid USP) 45 mg, Vitamin D (D-3 as cholecalciferol
USP) 20 mcg (800 IU), Vitamin E (as d-alpha-tocopherol from sunflower oil FCC)
6.6 mg, more...
Other Ingredients: Organic Cane Sugar, Organic
Tapioca Syrup, Gelatin, Pectin, Citric Acid, Natural Flavors, Colors Added
(Organic Black Carrot Juice Concentrate, Organic Turmeric).
Pet Products:
NOT APPROVED
ActiPet® Feline Formula™ Multi-Vitamin - Natural
Chicken & Tuna Flavor
Mfd. by NutraPure, Inc.
Break up or crush tablet and mix with your cat's food. 1 - 15 lbs:
Give 1-2 Tablets Daily; 16-30 lbs: Give 2 Tablets Daily.
Found only 0.1% of listed vitamin A
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: NA
Gluten-free: Not claimed
$0.09/chewable tablet
$8.26/90 chewable tablets
Medium/large circular chewable tablet
450 mcg RAE - 900 mcg RAE
(1,500 IU - 3,000 IU)
(% as beta-carotene not provided)
Found only
0.4 mcg RAE - 0.9 mcg RAE (1.4 IU - 2.9 IU) (1.4 IU - 2.9 IU retinol) (0.1% of
listed vitamin A)
NA
2 mcg - 4 mcg
NA
37.5 mcg - 75 mcg (D3)
(1,500 IU - 3,000 IU)
150 IU - 300 IU (form not provided)
NA
68 mcg DFE - 136 mcg DFE
(40 mcg - 80 mcg folic acid)
4 mg NE - 8 mg NE (4 mg - 8 mg)
(niacinamide)
Thiamin 0.72 mg - 1.44 mg, riboflavin 1 mg - 2 mg, pantothenic
acid 1 mg - 2 mg, biotin 25 mcg - 50 mcg
20 mg - 40 mg
(calcium carbonate)
2 mg - 4 mg
(iron amino acid chelate)
NA
7.9 mg - 15.7 mg
(potassium chloride)
0.3 mg - 0.6 mg
(zinc amino acid chelate)
0.2 mg - 0.4 mg
(copper amino acid chelate)
Manganese 200 mcg - 400 mcg
1 chewable tablet
Choline 20 mg, taurine 50 mg
1 chewable tablet
Moisture 1.4%, Calcium 20 mg, Potassium 7.85 mg, Iron 2 mg, Copper 200 mcg,
Manganese 200 mcg, Zinc 300 mcg, Vitamin A 1,500 IU, Vitamin D 150 IU, Vitamin
E 4 IU, Thiamine 0.72 mg, Riboflavin 1 mg, Pantothenic Acid 1 mg, Niacin 4 mg,
Folic Acid 40 mcg, Vitamin B12 2 mcg, more...
Ingredients: Cellulose, Brewer's Dried Yeast,
Natural Chicken Flavor and Natural Tuna Flavor (fish), Calcium Carbonate,
Choline Bitartrate, Taurine, Sunflower Seed Oil, Stearic Acid, Potassium
Chloride, Flax Seed, Silica, Green Tea, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Rice Flour,
Niacin Supplement (Vitamin B-3), Vitamin E Supplement, more...
APPROVED
Top Pick
for Dogs
Pet-Tabs®
Dist. by Zoetis Inc.
Puppies and dogs under 10 lb - 1/2 tablet daily. Dogs over 10 lb
- 1 tablet daily.
✔
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: NA
Gluten-free: Not claimed
$0.27/chewable tablet
$15.99/60 chewable tablets
Large chewable tablet
150 mcg RAE - 300 mcg RAE
(500 IU - 1,000 IU)
(as retinyl acetate)
0.05 mg - 0.1 mg
0.3 mcg - 0.5 mcg
NA
1.3 mcg - 2.5 mcg (D3)
(50 IU - 100 IU)
1 IU - 2 IU (form not provided)
NA
NA
Thiamin 0.41 mg - 0.81 mg, riboflavin 0.5 mg - 1 mg
0.039 mg - 0.078 mg
(dicalcium phosphate)
1.5 mg - 3 mg
(iron proteinate)
0.13 mg - 0.25 mg
(magnesium stearate)
0.006 mg - 0.012 mg
(source not stated)
0.7 mg - 1.4 mg
(zinc oxide)
0.05 mg - 0.1 mg
(copper acetate monohydrate)
Phosphorus 0.039 mg - 0.078 mg, chloride 0.0016 mg - 0.0031 mg,
manganese 0.13 mg - 0.025 mg
None.
1 chewable tablet
Minerals: Calcium (minimum) 2.5% (maximum) 3.5%, Phosphorus 2.5%, Potassium
0.4%, Chloride 0.1%, Magnesium 0.15%, Iron 3.0 mg, Copper 0.1 mg, Manganese
0.25 mg, Zinc 1.4 mg, Vitamins: Vitamin A 1,000 IU, Vitamin D3 100 IU, Vitamin
E 2 IU, Thiamine 0.81 mg, Riboflavin 1.0 mg, Niacin 10.0 mg, more...
Ingredients: Wheat Germ, Kaolin, Corn Syrup,
Pork Liver Meal, Dicalcium Phosphate, Sugar, Lactose, Safflower Oil, Gelatin,
Corn Starch, Stearic Acid, Niacinamide, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Iron
Proteinate, Magnesium Stearate, dl-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate, Vitamin A Acetate,
Zinc Oxide, more...
NOT APPROVED
Sparkle Dog® Multivitamin Daily Soft Chew
Dist. by Sparkle Dog
Dogs under 10 lbs - 1/2 soft chew per day; Dogs 10 to 50 lbs - 1
soft chew per day; Dogs over 50 lbs - 2 soft chews.
NOTE:
Missing label information.
Does not specify number of chews used to calculate nutrient facts.
Found only 58.3% of listed vitamin A and only 30.9% of listed folate
and 144.2% of listed zinc per assumed serving of 1 soft chew
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: NA
Gluten-free: Not claimed
$0.33/soft chew
$19.99/60 soft chews
Medium/large heart-shaped soft chew
405 mcg RAE - 1,620 mcg RAE
(1,350 IU - 5,400 IU)
(as retinyl acetate)
Found only
236 mcg RAE - 944.1 mcg REA (786.8 IU - 3,147.1 IU) (58.3% of listed vitamin A)
0.18 mg - 0.7 mg
0.4 mcg - 1.5 mcg
NA
5 mcg -20 mcg (D3)
(200 IU - 800 IU)
9 mg - 36 mg (S)
(10 IU - 40 IU)
NA
153 mcg DFE - 612 mcg DFE
(from 90 mcg - 360 mcg folic acid)
Found 153
mcg DFE -612 mcg DFE (90 mcg - 360 mcg folic acid) (30.9% of listed folate)
2 mg NE - 8 mg NE (2 mg - 8 mg)
(niacinamide)
Thiamin 0.13 mg - 0.5 mg, riboflavin 3.8 mg - 15 mg, pantothenic
acid 0.13 mg - 0.5 mg
0.05 mg - 0.2 mg
(dicalcium phosphate)
1.3 mg - 5 mg
(iron amino acid chelate)
0.003 mg - 0.012 mg
(magnesium oxide)
0.0001 mg - 0.00041 mg
(potassium citrate)
1.3 mg - 5 mg
(zinc oxide)
Found 1.8
mg - 7.2 mg (144.2% of listed amount)
0.065 mg - 0.26 mg
(copper acetate)
Phosphorus 0.024 mg - 0.097 mg, manganese 0.025 mg - 0.1 mg,
iodine 0.038 mg -0.15 mg, cobalt 0.005 mg - 0.02 mg
1 soft chew
Linoleic acid 1.5%
1 soft chew
Magnesium 0.15%, Phosphorus 1.2%, Potassium 0.005%, Calcium 2.5%, Linoleic Acid
1.5%, Iron (Amino Acid Chelate) 2.5 mg, Copper (Copper Acetate) 0.13 mg,
Manganese (as Manganese Sulfate) 0.05 mg, Zinc (Zinc Oxide) 2.0 mg, Vitamin D3
400 IU, Vitamin A (as Acetate) 2,700 IU, Vitamin E (dl-Alpha Tocopherol) 20 IU,
Vitamin B1 (Thiamin Mononitrate) 0.25 mg, more...
Ingredients: Dried Chicken Liver, Cane Molasses,
Dicalcium Phosphate, Glycerine, Soybean Oil, Wheat Flour, Soy Flour, Lecithin,
Corn Starch, Sug, Salt, Vitamin E Supplement, Potassium Sorbate (preservative),
Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Magnesium Oxide, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Riboflavin
Supplement, Vitamin A Acetate, Niacinamide, Mixed Tocopherols (preservative), more...
NOT APPROVED
VetriScience® Nu Cat™ Multivitamin
Dist. by VetriSciences® Laboratories
Give 1 tablet daily.
Found 181.1% of listed iron
Heavy metals: ✔
Disintegration: NA
Gluten-free: Not claimed
$0.10/chewable tablet
$9.25/90 chewable tablets
Medium circular chewable tablet
150 mcg RAE
(500 IU)
(% as beta-carotene not provided)
0.25 mg
2 mcg
5 mg
1.3 mcg (D3)
(50 IU)
5 IU (form not provided)
NA
170 mcg DFE
(100 mcg folic acid)
4.5 mg NE (4.5 mg)
(niacinamide)
Thiamin 0.67 mg, riboflavin 0.5 mg, pantothenic acid 0.67 mg,
biotin 4 mcg, inositol 2 mg
25 mg
(dicalcium phosphate, calcium carbonate)
2 mg
(ferrous sulfate)
Found 3.6
mg (181.1% of listed amount)
1.5 mg
(magnesium oxide)
5 mg
(potassium chloride, potassium iodide)
2
(zinc sulfate)
0.12 mg
(copper sulfate)
Phosphorus 12.5 mg, manganese 0.14 mg, iodine 40 mcg, selenium 16
mcg
1 chewable tablet
Arginine 10 mg, methionine 5 mg, eicosapentaenoic acid 1.37 mg, docosahexaenoic
acid 1 mg, linoleic acid 3.6 mg
1 chewable tablet
Calorie Content (calculated): 2,872 kcal ME/kg; 2 kcal ME/tablet. Moisture
(max) 4.7%, Arginine (1.8%) 10 mg, Methionine (0.9%) 5 mg, Eicosapentaenoic
Acid (0.2%) 1.37 mg, Docosahexaenoic Acid (0.2%) 1 mg, Linoleic Acid (0.7%) 3.6
mg, more...
Ingredients: Brewers dried yeast, silicon dioxide,
microcrystalline cellulose, dicalcium phosphate, fish oil, calcium carbonate,
stearic acid, taurine, potassium chloride, l-lysine, l-arginine, vitamin E
supplement, safflower oil, sodium selenite, ferrous sulfate, more...
Unless otherwise noted, information about the
products listed above is based on the samples purchased by ConsumerLab.com (CL)
for this Product Review. Manufacturers may change ingredients and label information
at any time, so be sure to check labels carefully when evaluating the products
you use or buy. If a product's ingredients differ from what is listed above, it
may not necessarily be of the same quality as what was tested.
The information contained in this report is
based on the compilation and review of information from product labeling and
analytic testing. CL applies what it believes to be the most appropriate
testing methods and standards. The information in this report does not reflect
the opinion or recommendation of CL, its officers or employees. CL cannot
assure the accuracy of information.
Copyright ConsumerLab.com, LLC, 2021 All
rights reserved. Not to be reproduced, excerpted, or cited in any fashion
without the express written permission of ConsumerLab.com LLC
ConsumerTips™:
In addition to product quality, a critical
issue with multivitamin/multimineral products is choosing the formula that's
right for you or your family members. Here's a useful, although far from comprehensive,
guide to the ingredients often found in multis. As required
by the FDA, dietary supplements must list the percent of the Daily Value for
certain vitamins and minerals. But as previously discussed, Daily Values (DVs)
can be misleading. The numbers that consumers really should know are the
Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs), Adequate Intakes (AIs), and the
Tolerable Upper Intake Levels (ULs). These values (RDAs, AIs, and ULs) are
collectively known as Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) and are established by
the Institute of Medicine of the National Academies. A Recommended
Dietary Allowance (RDA) is the average daily dietary intake level that
is thought to be sufficient to meet the nutrient requirement of nearly all
healthy individuals in a particular life stage and gender. An Adequate
Intake (AI) is an approximation used when there is not sufficient
information to develop an RDA. A Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) is
the highest level of daily intake of a nutrient that is likely to pose no risk
of adverse health effects for most people. As intake increases above the UL,
the risk of adverse effects may increase. Like the RDAs and AIs, the ULs vary
according to one's age and gender. Individuals are advised not to regularly
exceed the UL without a doctor's advice and supervision.
Keep in mind that 1,000 mcg (micrograms) is the same as 1 mg (milligram), and
1,000 mg equals 1 gram. IU stands for International Units and is used for
certain ingredients measured by their activity rather than weight.
Vitamins and minerals have many important functions in the body, but that
doesn't necessarily mean that a multi will deliver immediate health benefits.
For example, vitamin A is necessary for vision, but if you are not severely
vitamin A deficient, taking more vitamin A will not help you see any better.
Since few people today are severely deficient in any nutrient, the actual
benefits of multivitamins are generally subtle.
Many people take megadoses of vitamins or minerals that go far beyond what the
body needs for normal functioning. This may or may not be justified. For more
detailed information about dosage, see the links to Reviews of specific
vitamins and minerals.
You may also use our quick reference chart showing RDAs
and ULs for vitamins and minerals.
Avoiding nausea: Some people may experience nausea after
taking a multivitamin. Mineral ingredients such as iron or zinc can cause
stomach upset or nausea in some people, so consider taking a multivitamin that
does not contain these ingredients. If you need supplemental iron, look for a
multivitamin that provides a form of iron less
likely to cause stomach upset, or take a separate iron supplement that provides
one of these forms. Taking your multivitamin with food can also help to reduce
the risk of nausea.
Also, be aware that excessive doses of certain vitamins and minerals, including
vitamin B3 (niacin), vitamin A and vitamin D, magnesium and copper can cause
nausea or other gastrointestinal symptoms. Be sure you are not getting too much
of these vitamins and minerals from your multivitamin or other supplements you
may be taking (see Recommended Daily Intakes and Upper
Limits for specific vitamins and minerals).
Taking a multivitamin that contains citrus bioflavonoids may also increase the
risk of nausea and/or vomiting in a small percentage of women, particularly
those taking oral contraceptives or hormonal replacement therapy, possibly by
causing an increase in estrogen levels due to an enzyme interaction (which may
also affect drugs such as calcium channel blockers and benzodiazepines). When
50 mg of citrus bioflavonoids was added to a multivitamin taken daily by 88,000
women participating in a national weight loss program in the U.S., reports of
nausea and/or vomiting increased from just 2 women to 166 women (Greenway, Am J Ther 2011). Be aware that about
half of multivitamins contain citrus bioflavonoids. If this is of concern, you
can check the last column of the results table above to see which contain
them.
·
Vitamin A is necessary to maintain good vision and skin. In
supplements, "Vitamin A" usually refers to retinol (including retinyl
palmitate and retinyl acetate) as well as beta-carotene. Retinol is found in
animal sources such as dairy foods and liver. Beta-carotene comes from fruits
and vegetables such as carrots and spinach. It is thought that beta-carotene is
converted in the body into vitamin A based on the body's needs and, therefore,
may be a safer source of the nutrient. While supplement labels generally
combine beta-carotene and retinol in calculating their vitamin A content, many
will also note the percent of vitamin A that is contributed by beta-carotene.
o Be aware that the amount
of vitamin A in supplements is usually shown in IUs. Labels may alternatively
(and actually more correctly) list their vitamin A content in micrograms (shown
as mcg). The microgram equivalent of one IU of vitamin A depends upon the form
of vitamin A. For the "retinol" form, 0.3 mcg equals 1 IU. For the
"retinyl acetate" form, 3.44 mcg equals 1 IU. For the "retinyl
palmitate" form, .55 micrograms equals 1 IU.
o The RDA for vitamin A is
1,000 IU for children 1 to 3 years old, 1,333 IU for those 4 to 8, and 2,000 IU
for those 9 to 13. For males 14 years and up, the RDA is 3,000 IU. For females
14 years and older, 2,333 IU is recommended. These amounts can be obtained from
the food sources mentioned above.
o Too much vitamin A can be
a problem. The most important risk involves pregnant women. Vitamin A given in
modestly excessive doses can cause birth defects. Much higher doses of vitamin
A can potentially damage the liver, central nervous system, bone and skin. The
UL for daily intake should not exceed 2,000 IU for children 1 to 3 years old, 3,000
IU for those 4 to 8, 5,666 IU for those 9 to 13, 9,333 IU for those 14 to 18,
and 10,000 IU for adults. To minimize the risk of birth defects such as cleft
palate, heart defects, and hydrocephalus, the March of Dimes recommends that a
pregnant woman should not use a multivitamin or prenatal supplement that
contains more than 5,000 IU of preformed vitamin A. It also advises that a
pregnant woman should not take any vitamin A supplements beyond that amount and
minimize consumption of liver, which contains preformed vitamin A. However,
these ULs apply only to vitamin A consumed from supplements, fortified foods,
and animal sources, and does not include vitamin A as beta-carotene or intake
from fruits and vegetables.
o One must be aware that
some products, especially those designed for a broad range of individuals may
exceed the ULs for certain subgroups. For example, a multivitamin for
"children" may be appropriate for older children but exceed ULs for
younger children.
(See ConsumerLab.com's Vitamin A Supplements Review for
more information.)
·
B Vitamins: (See ConsumerLab.com's B Vitamin Supplements Review for
more information).
o Thiamin (B-1) assists nervous
system function. It is found in yeast, peas, beans, enriched flour and whole
grains in such large amounts that supplementation is normally not necessary.
The most important exceptions are individuals with alcoholism or congestive
heart failure, who may become thiamin deficient. The RDA is 0.5 mg for children
1 to 3, 0.6 mg for those 4 to 8, and 0.9 mg for those 9 to 13. For males 14
years and older the RDA is 1.2 mg. For females 14 to 18 the RDA is 1.0 mg, and
it increases to 1.1 mg for those 19 and older. However, the RDA for pregnant or
lactating women is 1.4 mg. ULs have not been established for thiamin, and it is
believed to be safe even at very high doses.
o Riboflavin (B-2) maintains vision
and the skin. Although it's found in many vegetables and nuts, as well as
enriched flour, some supplementation may be needed in children and the elderly.
The RDA is 0.5 mg for children 1 to 3, 0.6 mg for those 4 to 8, and 0.9 mg for
those 9 to 13. For males 14 years and older the RDA is 1.3 mg. For females 14
to 18 the RDA is 1.0 mg, and it increases to 1.1 mg for those 19 and older.
However, the RDA for pregnant women is 1.4 mg and for lactating women it is 1.6
mg. Much higher amounts (400 mg per day) have been suggested in the prevention
of migraines. ULs have not been established for riboflavin; this is believed to
be a safe nutrient even at high doses.
o Niacin (B-3) helps release
energy from carbohydrates. It is available in the diet from enriched white
flour, peanuts, fish and meat. The RDA is 6 mg for children 1 to 3, 8 mg for
those 4 to 8, and 12 mg for those 9 to 13. For males 14 years and older the RDA
is 16 mg. For females 14 and older the RDA is 14 mg. However, the RDA for
pregnant women is 18 mg and for lactating women it is 17 mg.
High doses of niacin may cause harmless but unpleasant flushing of the skin,
including reddening, burning, tingling, itching and pain. Rarely, this
reaction can be severe, as in the case of a 57-year-old woman who experienced
diffuse skin rash, itching, hives, lip swelling, and difficulty breathing
immediately after consumption of a gummy multivitamin (Centrum), and, on
another occasion, after taking a tablet multivitamin containing niacin. On both
occasions she required treatment with steroids, diphenhydramine and/or
epinephrine, and a challenge test later confirmed niacin as the likely cause of
the reaction. The reporting physicians noted that niacin-triggered reactions
are not considered a true allergy, but are caused by release of inflammatory
prostaglandins (Wong, Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol
2021). The "niacinamide" form of niacin is not
believed to cause skin flushing. At very high doses of niacin, liver
inflammation can also occur. The UL for niacin is fairly low and is based on
the amount causing skin flushing. The UL for niacin -- which applies only to
that consumed from supplements and fortified foods -- is 10 mg for children 1
to 3, 15 mg for those 4 to 8, 20 mg for those 9 to 13, 30 mg for those 14 to
18, and 35 mg for individuals 19 years and older.
Doses of niacin far above the ULs are sometimes prescribed to people with high
cholesterol, although recent evidence suggests it may not be helpful for people
who are already taking a statin drug. As the niacinamide form of niacin does
not cause skin flushing but may still cause toxicity at very high doses,
government agencies in Europe have set higher ULs for niacinamide than
established in the U.S. -- 500 mg in the UK and 900 mg in the European Union for
adults.
o Pyridoxine (B-6) is important in
many aspects of metabolism and in maintaining the immune and nervous systems.
B-6 is widely available in the diet, but marginal deficiency is believed to be
relatively common in the developed world. Inadequate B-6 may raise blood levels
of the substance homocysteine, and elevated homocysteine may in turn increase risk
of cardiovascular disease. On this basis, B-6 supplements have been suggested
as a means of helping to prevent cardiovascular disease, but their
effectiveness has not been proven. The RDA is 0.5 mg for children 1 to 3, 0.6
mg for those 4 to 8, and 1.0 mg for those 9 to 13. For males 14 to 50 the RDA
is 1.3 mg, and for those 51 and older it is 1.7 mg. For females 14 to 18 it is
1.2 mg, for those 19 to 50 it is 1.3 mg, and for those 51 and older it is 1.5
mg. However, the RDA for pregnant women is 1.9 mg and for lactating women it is
2.0 mg. The UL for B-6 is 30 mg for children 1 to 3, 40 mg for those 4 to 8, 60
mg for those 9 to 13, 80 mg for those 14 to 18, and 100 mg for individuals 19
years and older. Intake of B-6 above these levels can cause toxic effects, such
as nerve damage. B-6 supplementation at a high but still safe dose of 30 mg
daily has shown some promise for treating morning sickness. Other proposed uses
of high-dose B-6, such as treatment of PMS, autism and asthma, lack reliable
scientific support.
o Folate (Folic Acid,
Folacin, Metafolin, Quatrefolic, or B-9) is known to reduce the risk of certain
birth defects. Furthermore, adequate folate, along with vitamin B-6 and vitamin
B12, are necessary to keep homocysteine levels low (see B-6 above). Good
natural sources of folate include dark green leafy vegetables and oranges.
Because folic acid is added to enriched grains and some other foods, most
people get sufficient folate from their diet. Nonetheless, supplements are
generally recommended for women who are pregnant or may soon become pregnant.
The following are the RDAs for folate. It is important to know, however, that
these RDAs are based on intake from regular food sources. Folic acid or
L-5-methylfolate compounds (Metafolin or Quatrefolic) from supplements and
fortified foods is actually absorbed up to twice as well as folate from regular
food sources (see the B Vitamin Supplements Review for
products that contain these ingredients). Consequently, newer labeling shows
amounts of folate in terms of dietary folate equivalents or DFE, by which 400
mcg of folic acid is actually 667 mcg DFE. The RDAs are as follows: 150 mcg DFE
for children 1 to 3, 200 mcg DFE for children 4 to 8, and 300 mcg DFE for
children 9 to 13. For individuals 14 years and older the RDA is 400 mcg DFE.
The RDA for pregnant women is 600 mcg DFE, and for lactating women it is 500
mcg DFE. In view of its importance to developing fetuses during the first few
weeks after conception, it is recommended that all women capable of becoming
pregnant consume 400 mcg of folic acid from supplements or fortified foods in
addition to folate naturally occurring in a varied diet.
The UL for folate -- which applies only to synthetic forms (such as folic acid
and methylfolate) in supplements and fortified foods -- is 300 mcg for children
1 to 3, 400 mcg for those 4 to 8, 600 mcg for those 9 to 13, and 800 mcg for
those 14 to 18. For individuals 19 years and older the UL is 1,000 mcg. Intake
of high doses of folic acid can make it difficult to detect severe vitamin B-12
deficiency (although this is not a concern with Metafolin or Quatrefolic);
severe B-12 deficiency is a relatively rare condition, but missing the
diagnosis can be catastrophic, and that possibility is the main reason for
concern about excessive folic acid intake. In addition, folic acid
supplementation at 1,000 mcg per day has been associated with a more than
doubling of the risk of prostate cancer (Figueiredo, J Natl Cancer Inst 2009). In women
who are pregnant, high doses of folic acid (800 mcg to 1,000 mcg from
supplements) have been associated with adverse effects such
as gestational hypertension and lower levels of cognitive development in
children). (See the Folate section of
the B Vitamin Supplements Review for more details about folate.)
o B-12 helps build blood
cells. A shortfall can cause anemia or, in severe cases, irreversible nerve
damage. B-12 is also required, along with folate and B-6, to maintain low
homocysteine levels. However, true deficiency of this vitamin is rare. Vitamin
B-12 is abundant in meat, dairy products and eggs, and the body can store
enough B-12 to last for years. Note, though, that B-12 is not found at useful
levels in any purely plant-based substance. For this reason, total vegetarians
(vegans) need to take a B-12 supplement. Deficiency might also occur in people
with low stomach acidity, such as seniors or those taking drugs that reduce
stomach acid (such as Prilosec or Zantac). The reason is that stomach acid is
required to separate B-12 from the proteins in which it is naturally found.
People with low stomach acid can still absorb the purified B-12 found in
supplements. The RDA is 0.9 mcg for children 1 to 3, 1.2 mcg for those 4 to 8,
and 1.8 mcg for those 9 to 13. For individuals 14 years and older the RDA is
2.4 mcg. However, the RDA for pregnant women is 2.6 mcg and for lactating women
it is 2.8 mcg. ULs have not been established for vitamin B-12.
·
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is required for healthy blood vessel
walls, gums, and bones. It is also a strong antioxidant. Vitamin C is found in
many vegetables, such as broccoli and Brussels sprouts, as well as citrus and
other fruits, so a healthful diet should allow one to meet the RDA. The RDA is 15
mg for children 1 to 3, 25 mg for those 4 to 8, and 45 mg for those 9 to 13.
For males 14 to 18 the RDA is 75 mg, and it is 90 mg for those ages 19 and
higher. For females 14 to 18 the RDA is 65 mg, and it is 75 mg for those ages
19 and higher. However, the RDA for pregnant women 18 years and younger is 80
mg and 85 mg if 19 or older, and the RDA for lactating women 18 years and
younger is 115 mg and 120 mg if 19 or older. Too much vitamin C can cause
diarrhea and other gastric disturbances. It may also increase the risk of
cataracts and blunt some of the beneficial effects of endurance exercise. The
UL for vitamin C is 400 mg for children 1 to 3, 650 mg for those 4 to 8, 1,200
mg for those 9 to 13, 1,800 mg for those 14 to 18, and 2,000 mg for individuals
19 years and older. Dosages of vitamin C far above nutritional needs have been
recommended for a great many illnesses, including the common cold, but the
benefits of megadoses are largely unproven and controversial. See
ConsumerLab.com's Vitamin C Supplements Review for
more information.
·
Vitamin D (cholecalciferol) helps the body absorb calcium to promote
strong bones and teeth. It can be obtained in sufficient amounts from fortified
milks and foods and from exposure to sunlight. However, people who live in
northern climates may easily become vitamin D deficient during the winter,
especially if they are dark-skinned. Also, increased concern about skin cancer
has caused people to avoid the sun, and this creates a potential risk of
reduced vitamin D. There is some evidence that inadequate vitamin D intake can
lead to increased risk for heart attack, depression, Parkinson disease,
rheumatoid arthritis, falls and fracture, influenza A, and death from certain
cancers. Vitamin D is measured as micrograms of cholecalciferol or in
International Units (IUs) of vitamin D activity. One microgram equals 40 IU.
The RDAs for vitamin D intake are based on amounts required for bone health and
are 600 IU for individuals ages 1 to 70 and 800 IU for those aged 71 and older.
For infants up to 1 year old, an Adequate Intake (AI) level of 400 IU is
recommended but is only relevant if an individual is not getting adequate
exposure to sunlight. Excessive intake of vitamin D as a supplement can
potentially result in hypercalcemia (too much calcium in the blood) with
symptoms including constipation, confusion, weakness, loss of appetite and
painful calcium deposit. Taking too much during pregnancy can cause
abnormalities in the fetus. There is also concern that blood levels of vitamin
D that are too high may actually increase the risk of adverse events (including
overall mortality, some cancers, cardiovascular disease, and fractures and
falls). The ULs are 1,000 IU for infants up to 6 months, 1,500 IU for infants 6
months to 12 months, 2,500 IU for children 1 to 3 years, 3,000 for children 4
to 8 years, and 4,000 IU for all other people. (See ConsumerLab.com's Vitamin D Supplements Review for
more information.)
·
Vitamin E (tocopherol) is an antioxidant. Most diets provide
enough vitamin E to meet RDAs as it is easily obtained from food sources such
as nuts, seeds, whole grains, vegetable oils, and the fatty part of meats. For
a time, megadoses of this nutrient (much higher than could be reasonably
obtained through diet) were widely recommended in the belief that it would help
prevent cancer and cardiovascular disease. Unfortunately, accumulating evidence
has largely dashed this hope, at least regarding the most common form of
vitamin E supplements (alpha tocopherol, whether synthetic or natural). There
is still some possibility that high dosages of vitamin E may reduce risk of
prostate cancer, or that other forms of vitamin E, such as gamma tocopherol,
might offer benefits not seen with vitamin E supplements. High-dose vitamin E
has also shown promise for slowing the progression of Alzheimer's disease and
enhancing the immune response to vaccinations in seniors. There are literally
hundreds of other proposed uses of high dose vitamin E, but they generally lack
strong scientific support. Vitamin E is measured as IUs of vitamin E activity
or, more recently, in milligrams of active alpha-tocopherol. Most supplements
are still labeled using IUs. Complicating matters a bit, the conversion factor
between IUs and milligrams differs for natural vitamin E versus synthetic
vitamin E. Most multis contain synthetic vitamin E, for which the conversion
rate is 1 IU for each 0.45 mg of active alpha-tocopherol. The conversion rate
for natural vitamin E is 1 IU for each 0.67 mg of active alpha-tocopherol.
The RDA for vitamin E as active alpha tocopherol for children 1 to 3 is 6 mg
(13 IU synthetic or 9 IU natural), for those 4 to 8 it is 7 mg (16 IU synthetic
or 10 IU natural), and for those 9 to 13 it is 11 mg (24 IU synthetic or 16 IU
natural). The RDA for individuals ages 14 and older is 15 mg (33 IU synthetic
or 22 IU natural). However, the RDA for lactating women is 19 mg (42 IU
synthetic or 28 IU natural). There are some concerns that high doses of vitamin
E may impair platelet activity and lead to increased risk of bleeding. This
risk would be expected to increase if high doses of vitamin E were combined
with drugs that impair clotting. High doses may also blunt some of the
beneficial effects of endurance exercise. The ULs for vitamin E apply only to
that consumed from supplements and fortified foods and are as follows: for
children 1 to 3 it is 200 mg, for children 4 to 8 it is 300 mg, for those 9 to
13 it is 600 mg, and for those 14 to 18 it is 800 mg. The UL for individuals 19
and older is 1,000 mg. One must also be aware that the 1,000 mg per day adult
UL translates into about 1,500 IU's of natural vitamin E, but only 1,100 IU's
of synthetic vitamin E because both the active and inactive forms of alpha-tocopherol
found in synthetic vitamin E may contribute to this effect on blood clotting.
The ULs therefore translate approximately into the following IU amounts: for
children 1 to 3 the UL is 220 IU synthetic or 300 IU natural, for those 4 to 8
it is 330 IU synthetic or 450 IU natural, for those 9 to 13 it is 660 IU
synthetic or 900 IU natural, and for those 14 to 18 it is 880 IU synthetic or
1,200 IU natural. (See ConsumerLab.com's Vitamin E Supplements Review for
more information.)
·
Vitamin K plays a central role in blood clotting as well as bone
formation. Foods, such as green leafy vegetables, can provide sufficient
amounts, and intestinal bacteria also produce vitamin K. True deficiency is
rare; however, there is some evidence that vitamin K supplements at doses
higher than nutritional needs may help fight osteoporosis. The AI (Adequate
Intake) of vitamin K is measured in micrograms (shown as mcg). The AI is 30 mcg
for children ages 1 to 3, 55 mcg for children 4 to 8, 60 mcg for those ages 9
to 13, and 75 mcg for those ages 14 to 18. For males 19 years and older, it is
120 mcg. For females 19 years and older, it is 90 mcg. There is no UL
established for vitamin K. (See ConsumerLab.com's Vitamin K Supplements Review for
more information.)
Minerals and Other Ingredients:
·
Calcium is critical for strong bones and teeth. But because
calcium is very bulky, most multis do not contain the total recommended daily
intake amount in a pill. Consequently, people should consider getting their
calcium from a separate calcium supplement or fortified food or beverage. The
RDA for calcium is 700 mg for children 1 to 3, 1,000 mg for children 4 to 8,
and 1,300 mg for children 9 to 18. For adults aged 19 to 50, it is 1,000 mg.
For those 51 years and older it is 1,200 mg per day. The UL for calcium is
2,500 mg per day for most people 1 year and over but 3,000 mg for those ages 8
to 18 and 2,000 mg for those over 50. (IOM, 2011). Excessive use of calcium
supplements might raise risk of kidney and bladder stones. (See
ConsumerLab.com's Calcium Supplements Review for
more information.) Be aware that high doses of calcium can interfere with the
absorption of iron (see "Iron" below).
·
Chromium plays a role in the body's regulation of blood sugar.
Chromium is found in liver and whole-wheat products. Some people might have a
slight deficiency of chromium. Chromium supplementation (especially in doses
considerably above nutritional needs) has shown some promise for helping to
regulate blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Chromium is also
sold as a weight-loss aid, but there is little evidence that it really works.
AIs for chromium are measured in micrograms (shown as mcg) and are 11 mcg for
children ages 1 to 3, and 15 mcg for children ages 4 to 8. For boys ages 9 to
13, it is 25 mcg, while for girls it is 21 mcg. For males ages 14 to 50 it is
35 mcg. For females ages 14 to 18 it is 24 mcg, rising to 25 mcg for those ages
19 to 50. For men 51 years and older it is 30 mcg, and for women aged 51 and
older it is 20 mcg. Women who are pregnant need more 29 mcg if 18 or younger
and 30 mcg if 19 and older, while lactating women need 44 mcg if 18 or younger
and 45 mcg if 19 or older. There is no UL established for chromium, but there
are concerns that excessive intake could cause kidney and other organ damage in
certain susceptible people. (See ConsumerLab.com's Chromium Supplements Review for more
information.)
·
Copper is necessary for proper development of connective tissue,
nerve coverings, and skin pigment. Copper is found in foods such as oysters
(4,850 mcg per 3 oz.), shiitake mushrooms (650 mcg per &fract12 cup)
sunflower seeds (614 mcg per ¼ cup), 70% - 85% cacao dark chocolate (501 mcg
per oz.), wild-caught salmon (273 mcg per 3 oz), avocado (219 mcg per ½ raw
fruit) (NIH 2021) and can be
obtained in sufficient quantity from a good diet. People who take zinc
supplements may need to take extra copper. Copper in supplements may be shown
in milligrams (mg) or micrograms (mcg). One milligram is equal to 1,000
micrograms. The RDAs are: 340 mcg for children ages 1 to 3, 440 mcg for children
ages 4 to 8, 700 mcg for those ages 9 to 13, 890 mcg for those 14 to 18. For
people over 19 years of age, the RDA is 900 mcg. For women who are pregnant the
RDA is 1,000 mcg, while for lactating women it is 1,300 mcg. Excessive
consumption of copper may cause nausea and liver damage. The daily upper limits
for copper are 1,000 mcg for children ages 1 to 3, 3,000 mcg for those 4 to 8,
5,000 mcg for those 9 to 13, 8,000 mcg for those 14 to 18, and 10,000 mcg for
people 19 years and older.
Some experts have recommended that people at
risk for Alzheimer's disease consider avoiding copper-containing multivitamins,
due to limited evidence that copper from supplements (but not from food) may
contribute to cognitive decline and increase Alzheimer's disease risk (Barnard, Neurobiol Aging 2014).
For example, an observational study found an association between excess copper
intake (about 2,750 mcg per day) and accelerated mental decline, but there was
no association between cognitive decline and copper intake from food
only, and the link was significant only among those who also
consumed a high-fat diet (Morris, Arch Neurol 2006).
Copper has been identified in amyloid plaques in people with Alzheimer's
disease (Everett, Sci Adv 2021),
and laboratory studies have shown that copper can bind to amyloid proteins,
causing them to aggregate and increase oxidative stress, which may contribute
to neurotoxicity (Opazo, J Biol Chem 2002).
On the other hand, a small clinical study among 68 people with Alzheimer's
disease found that taking 8,000 mcg of copper as copper-(II)-orotate-dihydrate
once daily for 12 months did not affect cognitive decline
compared to placebo despite copper supplementation increasing blood levels of
copper (Kessler, J Neural Transm (Vienna)
2008).
Animal studies have shown that one form of copper called copper (or cupric)
oxide may not be well absorbed. Other forms, such as copper sulfate, cupric
acetate, and alkaline copper carbonate, may, therefore, be preferable. Copper
oxide is common in supplements (including some that have "passed"
CL's testing) because it is less bulky and allows for smaller pills.
·
Iodine is needed for making thyroid hormones, and iodine
deficiency causes hypothyroidism (low thyroid activity). Interestingly, too
much iodine can also cause hypothyroidism. Iodine is found in seaweed (232 mcg
in 10 grams, dried) , seafood (150 mcg in 3 oz. of baked cod, 93 mcg in 3
cooked oysters), yogurt (116 mcg in 1 cup plain, nonfat Greek yogurt), milk (85
mcg in one cup, nonfat) and eggs (26 mcg in 1 hardboiled egg) (USDA 2020). Most table
salt is iodized, representing a good dietary source of iodine. However, while
iodized salt has helped make iodine deficiency less common in the developed
world, the salt in processed foods is generally not iodized. Specialty salts,
such as Himalayan salt, are also
typically not iodized. The RDAs for iodine are given in micrograms and are: 90
mcg for children ages 1 to 8, and 120 mcg for children ages 9 to 13. For both
males and females ages 14 and older, the RDA is 150 mcg. However, for pregnant
women it is 220 mcg, and for lactating women it is 290 mcg. ULs for iodine are
200 mcg for children ages 1 to 3, 300 mcg for those 4 to 8, 600 mcg for those 9
to 13, 900 mcg for those 14 to 18, and 1,100 mcg for all people 19 years and
older.
Following a "Paleo" diet may result in mild iodine
deficiency, as it excludes table salt and dairy products. A study found that
six months of this diet resulted in a mild iodine deficiency, although thyroid
hormone levels were essentially stable. Iodine (as found in some multivitamins in this Review and kelp supplements)
supplementation should be considered with this diet (Manousou, Eur J Clin Nutr 2017), and for
people following a vegan diet or mainly plant protein-based diet who do not use
iodized table salt or another iodine source (see Protein
Supplements Review for details).
Too much iodine intake during pregnancy can cause
problems in infants, but so can too little. Three cases were reported of
infants born with congenital hypothyroidism apparently due to their mothers
having taken the high potency iodine supplement Iodoral (Optimox, Corp.) which
contains 12.5 mg (12,500 mcg) of iodine/iodide per tablet - more than 11 times
the UL and nearly 57 times the RDA for iodine for pregnant women (Connelly, J Pediatr 2012). Congenital
hypothyroidism has also been reported in infants born to mothers taking an
herbal supplement high in iodine-containing kelp (Stagi, Horm Res Paediatr 2010). On the other
hand, iodine deficiency can interfere with normal brain development in
offspring. There is growing concern about inadequate iodine intake among
pregnant and breastfeeding women in the U.S. due to increased use of processed
foods in which salt is not iodized. Approximately one-third of pregnant women
in the U.S. are marginally iodine deficient. In May 2014, the American Academy
of Pediatrics issued a policy statement advising pregnant women
to take an iodine-containing supplement providing 150 mcg of elemental iodine
(from 197 mcg of potassium iodide).
In the UK and Australia, observational studies have reported
decreased IQ scores and poorer educational outcomes in children 9 years of age
whose mothers were mildly deficient during pregnancy (Hynes, J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2013; Bath, Lancet 2013). An
analysis by researchers in the UK noted that mild iodine deficiency is also
quite common there, and estimated that if all women in the UK took supplemental
iodine while pregnant, it would result in an increase of 1.22 IQ points per
child, potentially leading to better educational achievement as well as lower
health care costs (Monahan, Lancet Diabetes &
Endocrinol 2015).
Excessive iodine intake can cause rash, acne, and other skin reactions in
sensitive individuals (see the Concerns and Cautions section
of the Kelp Supplements Review).
(See the CL Answer about supplements promoted as "Nascent Iodine.")
·
Iron deficiency is the leading cause of anemia. Deficiency is
most common in menstruating woman and is also seen in some children and pregnant
women. Adult men are seldom deficient in iron, and many multivitamins for adult
men specifically leave out iron, because there are concerns that excess iron
intake might increase risk of heart disease. Meat, poultry and fish are rich in
iron. Dried fruits, grains and green leafy vegetables are also good sources,
although iron from plant sources is absorbed only half as well as that from
animal sources. The RDA is 7 mg for children 1 to 3 years and 10 mg for those 4
to 8. It then falls to 8 mg for those 9 to 13. For males 14 to 18 it is 11 mg,
and for those 19 years and older the RDA again falls to 8 mg. For females 14 to
18 it is 15 mg, and for those 19 to 50 it is 18 mg, falling to 8 mg for women
ages 51 and higher. However, because of the needs of the fetus, the RDA for
pregnant women is 27 mg. For lactating women 18 years old and younger, the RDA
is 10 mg, or 9 mg for lactating women 19 and older. Also, post-menopausal women
taking hormone replacement therapy may need more iron if the therapy causes periodic
uterine bleeding. Oral contraceptives may reduce menstrual blood losses, so
women taking them may need less daily iron. High daily amounts of iron can
cause gastrointestinal distress, especially when consuming iron supplements on
an empty stomach. The UL is 40 mg for children 13 years and younger, and 45 mg
for all other people. However, these limits may be too high for people with
hereditary hemochomatosis, who are at risk for accumulating harmful levels of
iron. Taking calcium at doses of 300 mg or more can reduce absorption of iron
from supplements and foods; if you tend to be deficient in iron, take calcium
at least 2 hours apart from iron (See ConsumerLab.com's Iron Supplements Review for
more information).
·
Magnesium assists metabolism and the nervous system. There is some
controversy regarding whether marginal magnesium deficiency is a rare or a
common occurrence. Whole grains, nuts and beans are good sources of magnesium.
The RDA is 80 mg for children 1 to 3, 130 mg for those 4 to 8, and 240 mg for
those 9 to 13. For males 14 to 18 it is 410 mg, for those 19 to 30 it falls to
400 mg, and for those 31 years and older it is 420 mg. For females 14 to 18 it
is 360 mg, for those 19 to 30 it falls to 310 mg, and for those 31 years and
older it is 320 mg. However, for pregnant women it is 400 mg if they are 18
years or younger, 350 mg if 19 to 30, and 360 mg if 31 or older. For lactating
women it is 360 mg if they are 18 years or younger, 310 mg if they are 19 to
30, and 320 mg if 31 or older. People with diabetes are thought to have an
increase need for magnesium. Magnesium supplements around or above the levels
of the ULs have shown some promise for the treatment of migraine headaches and
high blood pressure, as well for preventing kidney stones. Excessive magnesium
intake can cause nausea and vomiting, low blood pressure, and muscle weakness.
The UL for magnesium applies only to that consumed from supplements or other
medication and is 65 mg for children 1 to 3 and 110 mg for those 4 to 8. For
individuals 9 years and older the UL is 350 mg. (See ConsumerLab.com's Magnesium Supplements Review for
more information.)
·
Manganese is involved in bone formation and in the metabolism of
glucose, carbohydrates and fats. Some observational research suggests that
people with the highest (≥ 6.84 mcg/L) or lowest (≤ 4.21 mcg/L)
blood levels of manganese may be at increased risk of type 2 diabetes compared
to those with levels in the mid-range (4.21 to 6.84 mcg/L) (). However, it's
not known if manganese supplementation helps prevent or treat type 2 diabetes.
Manganese deficiency is very rare, and there are no known groups of people that
are at increased risk of manganese deficiency. There are no established
symptoms of manganese deficiency, although several reports suggest it may cause
demineralization and poor growth in children; skin rashes, hair depigmentation,
increased alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in men, and mood and altered mood and
increased premenstrual pain in women (NIH 2021; Dietary Reference Intakes, National Academies Press 2001).
Nuts such as hazelnuts (1.6 mg per oz), pecans (1.1 mg per oz), brown rice (1.1
mg per ½ cup, cooked) and other whole grains, legumes such as chickpeas (0.9 mg
per ½ cup, cooked), and black tea (0.5 mg per 1 brewed cup), are rich sources
of manganese and can provide adequate amounts. The daily AI for manganese is
1.2 mg for children 1 to 3 years and 1.5 mg for those 4 to 8. It is 1.9 mg for
males 9 to 13, 2.2 mg for those 14 to 18, and 2.3 mg for those 19 years and
older. For females 9 to 18, the level is 1.6 mg, increasing to 1.8 mg for those
19 years and older. Pregnant women need 2.0 mg per day and lactating women need
2.6 mg per day. Too much manganese may cause neurological side effects. The UL
for manganese is 2 mg for children 1 to 3, 3 mg for children 4 to 8, 6 mg for
children 9 to 13, and 9 mg for children 14 to 18. The UL for adults 19 years
and older is 11 mg.
·
Molybdenum is a constituent of various enzymes in the body that
metabolize certain substances, like purines, as well as some drugs and toxins.
Deficiency is very rare in the U.S. and has generally only been reported in
people with a genetic mutation known as molybdenum cofactor deficiency, and in
one case in someone receiving long-term parenteral nutrition lacking
molybdenum. In this case, tachycardia, tachypnea, headache, night blindness,
and coma occurred but were resolved when molybdenum was given (Abumrad, Am J Clin Nutr 1981).
Molybdenum can be obtained from legumes such as black-eyed peas (288 mcg per ½
cup), grain products (15 mcg in ½ cup of Cheerios or Shredded wheat cereal),
yogurt (26 mcg per 1 cup plain, nonfat) and peanuts (11 mcg per 1 oz) in the
diet (Hunt, J Am Diet Assoc 2001). RDAs for
molybdenum are given in micrograms and are: 17 mcg for children 1
to 3 years, 22 mcg for those 4 to 8, 34 mcg for those 9 to 13, and 43 mcg for
those 14 to 18. Individuals 19 years and older need 45 mcg per day, except
woman who are pregnant or nursing should get 50 mcg per day. Extremely high
intakes (10 to 20 milligrams per day) have been associated with
gout-like symptoms and high blood levels of uric acid in people living in an
area of Armenia with very high levels of molybdenum in the soil (Novotny, J Evid Compl Alt Med 2011).
The UL for molybdenum is 300 mcg for children 1 to 3, 600 mcg for those 4 to 8,
1,100 mcg for those 9 to 13, 1,700 mcg for those 14 to 18, and 2,000 mcg for
people 19 years and older.
·
Phosphorus is an essential mineral and a component of bones, teeth,
DNA, and cell membranes (in the form of phospholipids). Few people don't get
enough phosphorus from their diets, as it is easily obtained from a wide
variety of foods. The RDA is 460 mg for children 1 to 3, 500 mg for those 4 to
8, and 1,250 mg for those 9 to 18, and for those 19 and older, 700 mg. You can
get these amounts from a combination of foods such as yogurt (245 mg per 6 oz.
plain, low-fat), milk (226 mg per 1 cup, 2% fat), salmon (214 mg per 3 oz.),
chicken breast (182 mg per 3 oz.), kidney beans (115 mg per ½ cup), peas (94 mg
per ½ cup) and long-grain brown rice (102 mg per ½ cup). Almonds are also a
good source, providing 650 mg per cup, dry roasted (USDA 2018). Nevertheless,
phosphorus deficiency (hypophosphatemia) can occur in preterm infants, people
with genetic phosphate regulation disorders, and people suffering from severe
malnutrition. Symptoms include anorexia, anemia, muscle weakness, bone pain and
rickets, and increased risk of infection. On the other hand, people with
chronic kidney disease (CKD) may have reduced ability to excrete phosphorus,
leading to high blood levels of phosphate, which is associated with an
increased risk of death and can negatively affect bone health and lead to
calcified arteries (Moe, Adv Chronic Kidney Dis 2007).
Consequently, people with chronic kidney disease often need to follow a
low-phosphorus diet (Barreto, Kidney Int Rep 2019) and should take
into account that fact that phosphorus is commonly added to multivitamins,
either as an active ingredient (typically in doses ranging from 20 to 100 mg)
or in smaller amounts as part of an excipient, such as dicalcium phosphate. The
National Kidney Foundation provides a list of herbal supplement ingredients that can
contain phosphorus.
·
Selenium is used by the body in its antioxidant system. There is
some preliminary evidence that selenium supplements may help prevent certain
forms of cancer, but this benefit appears to be limited to those who are
deficient in the mineral, and deficiency is thought to be relatively uncommon
in the developed world. Foods containing selenium include nuts, wheat germ,
whole wheat, and orange juice. The RDA is 20 mcg for children 1 to 3, 30 mcg
for those 4 to 8, and 40 mcg for those 9 to 13. For individuals 14 and older
the RDA is 55 mcg. However, the RDA for pregnant woman is 60 mcg and for
nursing women it is 70 mcg per day. At very high doses selenium can cause hair
loss and tissue damage. The UL for selenium is 90 mcg for children 1 to 3, 150
mcg for those 4 to 8, and 280 mcg for those 9 to 13. The UL for individuals 19
years and older is 400 mcg (See ConsumerLab.com's Selenium Supplements Review for
more information).
·
Zinc plays a role in brain function, wound healing, and sperm
production. Many breakfast cereals are fortified with zinc and it is naturally
abundant in red meats, certain seafood, and whole grains. However, mild zinc
deficiency is thought to be fairly common. Zinc supplements at nutritional
doses may enhance immunity in people who are extremely deficient in the
mineral, such as seniors in nursing homes and people who live in developing
countries. The RDA of zinc is 3 mg for children ages 1 to 3, 5 mg for those 4
to 8, and 8 mg for those 9 to 13. For males 14 and older the RDA is 11 mg. For
females 14 to 18 it is 9 mg, while for those 19 years and older it is 8 mg per
day. The RDA for pregnant women who are 18 years or younger is 13 mg, while it
is 11 mg for pregnant women 19 years and older. For lactating women the RDAs
are 14 mg if 18 years and younger or 12 mg if 19 years or older. High doses of
zinc have shown promise for treatment of acne, macular degeneration and sickle
cell disease. However, too much zinc can be toxic, and people have harmed
themselves by taking large doses for these conditions. Excessive zinc impairs
the absorption of copper and can cause immune deficiency, heart problems and
anemia. Weak evidence associates long-term zinc supplementation at high doses
(over 100 mg per day) with an increased risk of prostate cancer.
ULs for zinc are 7 mg for children ages 1 to 3, 12 mg for those 4 to 8, 23 mg
for those 9 to 13, 34 mg for those 14 to 18, and 40 mg for individuals 19 years
and older. NOTE: Zinc is widely used in the form of a lozenge or nasal spray to
kill cold viruses. This use has no relationship to the effects of zinc taken as
an oral supplement. (See ConsumerLab.com's Zinc Pills and Lozenges Review for
more information).
Information on this site
is provided for informational purposes only. It is not an endorsement of any
product nor is it meant to substitute for the advice provided by physicians or
other healthcare professionals. The information contained herein should not be
used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease. Consumers should
inform their healthcare providers of the dietary supplements they take.
Latest Clinical Research Updates for Multivitamin and Multimineral
Supplements
12/10/2021
A CL member alerted us
that a prenatal multivitamin that was our Top Pick has been reformulated, changing its
amounts of key vitamins and minerals. Learn how the changes affect our opinion of this
supplement.
Severe Reaction to Multivitamin
11/11/2021
A middle-aged woman
developed a skin rash, hives and difficulty breathing immediately after taking
a multivitamin, according to a recent report. Learn why in our update to
the Multivitamin and Multimineral Supplements Review.
Multivitamins and Kidney Disease
11/11/2021
People with chronic
kidney disease are often advised to limit their intake of an ingredient that,
they may not realize, is common in multivitamins. Learn more in the ConsumerTips section of the Multivitamin
and Multimineral Supplements Review.
11/09/2021
A CL member notified us
of online reviews reporting "mold" on a supplement that was Approved
by CL. We investigated. Learn what we found in an Update to our Multivitamin Review.
10/23/2021
Do "children's"
multivitamins and minerals? Not necessarily, according to a recent study. Find
out why in the Children's Multivitamins section of our
Multivitamin and Multimineral Supplements Review. Also, see our Top Pick multivitamin for children.
Related CL Answers (38)