Multivitamins are dietary supplements that contain a combination of vitamin and minerals that are beneficial for health and enhance almost any diet. Estimates state that about 90% of Americans have a vitamin D deficiency, and about 50% have a vitamin C deficiency. Taking a supplement can help you reach your nutrition goals.
Most multivitamins contain essential vitamins like D and C, but the best multivitamin supplements will contain other underrepresented vitamins. Choosing a multivitamin with underrepresented nutrients can help you fill any nutritional gaps left behind by your diet so you can maintain optimal health.
Note: If you have a pre-existing condition, take regular medication, are pregnant, or are nursing, talk to your doctor before adding multivitamins to your diet. If you have any side effects while taking a multivitamin, stop use and consult with a doctor right away.
1. Thorne Research Basic Nutrients 2/Day
The best multivitamin for 2023 is Thorne Research Basic Nutrients. The Thorne supplement includes research-supported ingredients, the most important of which are listed below.
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin A
- Vitamins C and E
- B Vitamins
- Zinc
- Chromium
- Copper
The vitamins in Thorne support an increased immune system, better energy, healthier skin and hair, and much more. One of Thorne’s more unique ingredients is chromium. Some research has shown that chromium can lower glucose levels and improve energy levels, which makes this a good option for weight loss.
The Thorne Basic Nutrient multivitamin supplement rarely has side effects. The most common issue those taking this supplement face is an upset stomach. Most people who take Thorn report increased energy and improved mood.
You should note that you should not take this supplement if you’re on any kind of anticoagulant (blood thinner), as the vitamin K in Thorne Basic Nutrients may cause this medication to become less effective.
The easy low dose of just two capsules daily makes Thorne one of the best daily vitamins on the market. The ease of use and its dense load of research-supported ingredients makes Thorne an excellent choice for anyone looking to supplement their diet with a multivitamin.
2. brainMD NeuroVite Plus Multivitamin
brainMD’s NeuroVite Plus Multivitamin is a popular multivitamin supplement for overall health, but it is especially good for brain health and promoting cognitive function. Listed below are some essential nutrients in NeuroVite Plus Multivitamin.
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin D
- B Vitamins
- Molybdenum/ sodium molybdate
- Biotin
Many of the NeuroVite Plus Multivitamin ingredients are essential for brain health. For example, biotin plays a crucial role in nerve and neurotransmitter signals, and molybdenum is often used to decrease signs of brain aging.
While NeuroVite Plus is popular for its many cognitive-focused ingredients, it may also aid digestion, immunity, and skin and hair health.
The most common side effects of taking NeuroVite Plus are diarrhea and itching. Because NeuroVite Plus sticks to a low-allergen, gentle formula, side effects are extremely uncommon when taken according to the manufacturers’ directions.
NeuroVite Plus is free of artificial additives and many allergens, which makes it an excellent choice for those with more sensitive stomachs. You should note that while NeuroVite Plus is one of the best adult vitamins, it is not intended for children.
3. Nature Made Multivitamin Complete
Nature Made Complete Multivitamins are among the top-rated multivitamins on the market. Below are some of the key ingredients of Nature Made Multivitamin Complete.
- Vitamin K
- Vitamin B
- Copper
- Selenium
- Riboflavin
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin D
The ingredients in Nature Made Multivitamin make it a good choice for all-around health. Ingredients like copper, essential for helping your body create red blood cells, and selenium, which helps your body synthesize DNA and protect you against infection.
Though still rare, the most common side effects of taking Nature Made multivitamins are constipation, nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain.
While some multivitamins require as many as four or five capsules, the Nature Made Complete Multivitamin only requires one. It is packed with research-backed ingredients and may help your body protect your immune system.
4. Ritual Essential
Ritual Essential Multivitamins come in varieties for every kind of person. There are vitamins for women, men, kids, teens, and men and women over 50, as well as pre and post-natal vitamins. Each of these multivitamins contains essential nutrients geared toward their target group, so you can be sure you’re getting everything you need.
While the ingredients in Ritual Essential Multivitamins vary by the kind you take, they do have a few key ingredients in common, listed below.
- Omega-3 DHA
- Vitamin D3
- B Vitamins
All Ritual Essential Multivitamin Supplements contain no artificial colors and are allergen-friendly. The gentle formula makes them a great choice for those who have poor reactions to other daily multivitamins.
The most common side effects of Ritual Essential Multivitamins are upset stomach, nausea, and aches and pains. Though these side effects may occur, they are uncommon when you follow the manufacturers’ guidelines.
5. Mykind Organic Women’s Multi Tablets
Though these multivitamins are intended for women, they also contain a good balance of essential nutrients for men. Some of the key ingredients in Mykind organic multivitamins are listed below.
- Iodine
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin C
- Chromium
- B vitamins
- Vitamin K
Mykind Women’s multi tablets include iodine, which can support thyroid function and overall metabolism. They also contain vitamin A, which may help with vision, cell growth and division, and immune response. Mykind multivitamins may also help with blood and heart health and may help you feel more energized.
As with many other multivitamin supplements, the primary potential side effect of Mykind Organic Women’s Multi Tablets is an upset stomach. This side effect is uncommon when the supplement is taken according to the manufacturer’s directions.
Mykind multivitamins are high-quality multivitamins that are certified vegan, organic, and non-GMO. Mykind is also a certified B corporation, which means the company follows a rigorous standard for environmental protection.
6. SmartyPants Kids Formula Daily Gummy Multivitamin
The SmartyPants Kids Formula Daily Gummy Multivitamin is the best multivitamin for kids. It contains the following essential ingredients.
- Omega 3s
- Vitamin D3
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin K
- Vitamin B12
Though the SmartyPants Kids multivitamins contain tons of nutrients and vitamins, one of the biggest critical components is omega 3s. Omega 3s offer a wide array of health benefits, especially for children.
Some research has shown that kids who take an omega-3 supplement have better brain health and sleep. Other preliminary research suggests that omega 3s may alleviate the symptoms of ADHD and asthma in children.
SmartyPants Kids multivitamins may also help with immunity because of the presence of vitamin D and bone growth because of the presence of vitamin C.
The primary side effects of kids’ gummy multivitamins are upset stomach, constipation, and diarrhea. These side effects are uncommon when multivitamins are taken according to the manufacturer’s directions.
Many multivitamins contain large amounts of vitamins, which can cause an upset stomach or other issues. The SmartyPants Kids multivitamins still contain solid doses of essential nutrients, but not so much as to cause digestive problems.
7. SmartyPants Women’s Masters 50+ Multivitamin
Older women have unique needs, and the SmartyPants Women’s Masters 50+ multivitamin is designed with these women in mind. There are many essential nutrients in this multivitamin, but some of the most important are listed below.
- Omega-3s
- Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
- B vitamins
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin K
- Folate
- Zinc
Notably, SmartyPants for 50+ contains CoQ10. CoQ10 provides essential health benefits for older adults by preventing oxidative stress. CoQ10 supplementation has also been linked to decreased inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis patients.
The Omega-3s in SmartyPants Women’s Masters 50+ Multivitamins may help older adults maintain brain health, while vitamins D and C are essential for bone health.
The most common side effect experienced by people taking multivitamin supplements is an upset stomach, especially nausea, diarrhea, and constipation.
SmartyPants multivitamins are NSF-certified, meaning they have been tested by a third party. This, combined with their well-chosen ingredients, makes SmartyPants Women’s Masters 50+ multivitamins a good choice for older women.
8. OLLY Multivitamins
OLLY has multivitamin options available for men, women, kids, and teens. Multivitamins are also available for specific uses, such as sleep, focus, and libido. Each kind of multivitamin supplement has unique ingredients designed to meet each group’s nutrition needs.
The wide variety of multivitamins means you can get ingredients geared toward your specific needs backed by research-supported ingredients. For example, the OLLY Hair Multivitamin contains high doses of biotin. Biotin may reduce hair loss and promote hair growth in people with biotin deficiencies.
The most common side effects of taking these multivitamins are constipation, upset stomach, and diarrhea.
The standard OLLY multivitamins (for men and women over 18) contain high doses of the ingredients explored below.
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin D
- B Vitamins
Ingredients in men’s and women’s OLLY multivitamins can provide various benefits. B Vitamins have been shown to reduce stress and increase mood, while vitamin A can help boost your immune system.
9. One A Day Men’s Multivitamin
The One A Day Men’s Multivitamin is the best multivitamin for adult men. This multivitamin contains high-quality ingredients listed below.
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin C
- Copper
- Manganese
- Chromium
- B vitamins
- Magnesium
- Folic Acid
The One A Day Men’s Multivitamin does not contain iron, which is ideal because research says men may struggle to rid themselves of excess iron. It contains manganese, which is a strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.
Men One A Day multivitamins may also help you maintain healthy blood pressure with vitamin D and magnesium and feel more energetic with B vitamins and chromium. Additionally, folic acid has been shown to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with cardiovascular disease.
Though rare, the most common side effects of taking One A Day Men’s Multivitamin are an upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea, and an unpleasant taste lingering in the mouth.
10. SmartyPants Adult Formula Gummies
SmartyPants Adult Formula is one of the top-rated multivitamins for adults, regardless of gender. These gummies contain many crucial ingredients for adult health, including the following list.
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Vitamin B12
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin K
- Vitamin D
- Biotin
Crucially, SmartyPants Adult Formula Gummies contain omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids have been linked to several health benefits in adults, including reducing inflammation, improving heart health, promoting cognitive function, and reducing the risk of diseases such as cancer and arthritis.
Other ingredients in SmartyPants multivitamins help increase energy, boost immunity, and protect bones.
Though rare, some people may experience upset stomach, nausea, constipation, or diarrhea while taking multivitamins.
The main downside to SmartyPants Adult Gummies is that the recommended dose is high- six gummies per day. Though this dosing is high, it’s easier for many to take gummies than to swallow capsules.
What Are the Benefits of Using Multivitamin Supplements?
Studies are contradictory about the efficacy of multivitamin supplements. Some research, such as the Physicians’ Health Study II, has shown statistically significant reductions in cancer, while others have shown that multivitamins have little to no benefit.
In general, advocates for multivitamins say multivitamins can help your body in the listed ways.
- Reduce your risk of cancer
- Reduce your risk of heart disease
- Increase your energy levels
- Help you lose weight
- Help you balance the hormones in your body
- Increase the amount of muscle you build when working out
What Happens to Your Body When You Start Taking Multivitamins?
About a month after you start taking multivitamins, you might have more energy, feel stronger, and have increased cognitive function. You might also notice your immune system seems stronger and that you’re able to maintain stable energy throughout the day.
Is There a Downside To Taking Multivitamin Supplements?
Some people have reported having an upset stomach when taking multivitamins. Fat-soluble vitamins can also be difficult to flush from your body. Men may also have more trouble getting rid of excess iron, and pregnant women should avoid vitamin A, as it may cause congenital disabilities.
Though there is some risk associated with multivitamins, the odds of having a severe adverse reaction are generally low.
How Should You Use Multivitamin Supplements?
You should use multivitamin supplements as directed by the manufacturer. Most multivitamin manufacturers recommend taking one or two capsules daily with your largest meal, but some suggest certain times of the day.
You should not use multivitamin supplements as a primary source of nutrition. You should only use them to fill nutritional gaps that your standard diet cannot. If you have a pre-existing condition, are pregnant, or are nursing, you should talk to a healthcare professional before adding a multivitamin to your diet.
How Long Does It Take for Multivitamins To Start Working?
Reports suggest that multivitamins start working within a few months, but some people have reported feeling the effects in as little as a day or week.
When Is the Best Time To Use Multivitamin Supplements?
You should take your multivitamin supplements with your largest meal of the day. For most people, this is dinner time.
You can also increase the effects of your multivitamins by adding fats into your diet, especially in the meal you eat when you take your multivitamins. Vitamins A, E, K, and D are fat-soluble, which means that taking them with fat will help your body absorb them more effectively.
You should avoid having an empty stomach whenever you decide to take your multivitamin supplement. Taking a multivitamin supplement on an empty stomach can cause stomach cramps and other digestive issues.
Better Energy
Improved Hair & Skin
Increased Immune System
Can a Multivitamin Supplement Help With Muscle Gain and Weight Loss at the Same Time?
Generally, research doesn’t support the idea that multivitamin supplementation can help with weight loss directly.
However, taking a multivitamin might help you stay energized, which can motivate you to lose weight. For example, vitamin B, which is present in most multivitamins, has been linked to increased metabolism.
Other ingredients in multivitamins can help you gain muscle. For example, iron and vitamin D are known to help you build muscle.
If you want to lose weight and gain muscle mass simultaneously, look for a multivitamin supplement that contains muscle-building ingredients like vitamin D and iron and weight-loss ingredients like vitamin B and zinc.
What Is the Effect of Multivitamin Supplements on Losing Weight?
Some multivitamins can help you lose weight, while others won’t help much. In general, the primary ingredients in multivitamins, such as vitamins D and B, won’t help with weight loss.
While most of the significant components in multivitamins won’t help with weight, there are some ingredients that will. For example, zinc supplementation has been shown to help those who are overweight or obese lose weight.
Some people taking multivitamin supplements have also reported higher energy levels, which might help you stay energized enough to work out or diet. The best multivitamins for weight loss will contain zinc, vitamin B, and other energy-boosting ingredients.
Do Multivitamin Supplements Actually Work?
Most research suggests that multivitamins provide few short-term health benefits, if any. In fact, large regular doses of some vitamins and minerals may even be harmful. However, other research supports multivitamin use and suggests it can prevent certain diseases.
Recent research has shown that taking multivitamins can reduce your risk of cancer. Multivitamin supplements can also protect your vision by decreasing your risk of cataracts.
In short: the risk associated with taking multivitamin supplements is very low, and the benefits are likely just as small. If you’re concerned about getting enough essential vitamins in your diet, a multivitamin supplement might be a good option.
Is It Good To Take Multivitamin Supplements Every Day?
Taking your multivitamin supplement every day is a good idea, as long as that is the recommended dose. Most manufacturers design their supplements to be taken on a specific schedule (typically daily), and you can maximize the effects of your supplement by following their directions.
What Are the Best Multivitamins for Different Groups and Purposes?
The best multivitamins are tailored towards ones lifestyle. The best multivitamins for adults won’t be the same for teenagers or children, and the best multivitamins for an active person won’t be the same for someone less active. At the end of the day, Thorne Multivitamins are the top rated products you should try.
What Is the Best Multivitamin Supplement For Women?
Below are crucial ingredients that women should look for in a supplement, these include calcium, iodine, B Vitamins.
- Calcium: Calcium is an essential nutrient for bone health and growth. Calcium deficiency is also more common in women than in men.
- Iodine: Iodine deficiency is a relatively common phenomenon for young women in the United States.
- B vitamins: B vitamins are essential for regulating the nervous system and combating illness.
Mykind Organic Women’s Multi Tablets are an excellent choice for women. The specialized formula includes many ingredients for women’s health, including iodine, calcium, and B vitamins. Research shows that a significant portion of the female population in the United States is short on these critical nutrients.
Alternatively, Ritual Essential multivitamins for women and Thorne Women’s Multi 50+ are great multivitamin supplements for women. These are also multivitamins created with women’s bodies in mind and contain many essential nutrients that women need.
What Is the Best Multivitamin Supplement For Men?
Generally, men should look for multivitamin supplements containing the critical nutrients discussed below; Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Vitamin C.
- Vitamin A: Recent studies have shown that consuming additional vitamin A may help men protect their sexual health in the event of HCH exposure.
- Vitamin K: Older adults, particularly men, often do not get enough vitamin K in their diets. Vitamin K is known to prevent aging issues and protect cognitive function.
- Vitamin C: Increased vitamin C has been shown to decrease the incidence of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men.
Men should avoid supplements that contain high amounts of iron, as it has been shown that men have a more challenging time removing excess iron from their bodies. It is also advisable for men to avoid soy-based ingredients, as soy has been linked to decreased testosterone production in some studies.
With these considerations, the One A Day Men’s Multivitamin is one of the best multivitamins for adult men. The One A Day multivitamins are crafted with a specific group in mind, which means the ingredients are ideal for men’s health.
Ritual Essential Multivitamins for Men is also a good choice. These multivitamins do not contain soy-based ingredients and have a total daily dose of vitamins K and A. Thorne Men’s Multivitamins offer similar components and do not contain iron.
Better Energy
Improved Hair & Skin
Increased Immune System
What Is the Best Multivitamin Supplement For Elderly People?
Elderly people should look for multivitamins that contain the following three key nutrients; Vitamin D, Calcium, Vitamin B12.
- Vitamin D: Vitamin D deficiency is relatively common in older adults and is linked to osteoporosis.
- Calcium: Calcium is essential for bone health. Low calcium may result in changes in bone density, especially in older people.
- Vitamin B12: Vitamin B12 is essential for maintaining cognitive function and brain health later in life. Low levels of vitamin B12 in older adults may appear as brain fog, memory loss, and decreased mobility.
Ritual offers two Essential Multivitamins for people over fifty, one for men and one for women. Both multivitamins contain a complete daily dose of vitamin D3 and vitamin B12. As an added bonus, Ritual Essential for Men 50+ does not contain soy-based ingredients. Some research has suggested that soy may affect testosterone production in men.
Thorne Men’s Multi 50+ and Women’s Multi 50+ are excellent multivitamin supplement options for older adults. Both multivitamins are soy-free and contain a full daily dose of vitamins D and B12 and a significant amount of calcium.
Older adults may also benefit from taking SmartyPants 50+ multivitamins, which contain vital ingredients to help mitigate the most substantial effects of aging, such as CoQ10 and omega-3s. They also have a total dose of vitamins D and B12.
What Is the Best Multivitamin Supplement For Kids?
Kids should take multivitamins that contain the following key nutrients; Zinc, Vitamin D, Vitamin C.
- Zinc: Zinc is essential for brain growth and development, especially in children and young adults.
- Vitamin D: Vitamin D can help kids build strong bones and prevent bone issues later in life.
- Vitamin C: Vitamin C may help children’s immune systems and is ideal for young kids who tend to experience illness frequently.
Ritual Kids Multivitamin (for four and up) contains good amounts of zinc, vitamin D, vitamin C, and tons of other essential nutrients that kids need. The SmartyPants Kids Formula Daily Gummy Multivitamin is also a good option with similar nutritional benefits. It has the added bonus of being a gummy multivitamin with many flavors, which can help get pickier kids to take them.
Centrum Organic Kids Multigummies is one of the best multivitamin supplements for kids because it has D and C vitamins that are great for kids and doesn’t have any artificial colors or preservatives.
What Is the Best Multivitamin Supplement For Diabetics?
Athletes should look for multivitamins with the following essential ingredients; Vitamin B1, Vitamin C and Chromium.
- Vitamin B1: Diabetics are often deficient in vitamin B1 (also known as thiamine) because high blood sugar causes the body to excrete it faster than normal.
- Vitamin C: Research suggests vitamin C can reduce post-meal blood sugars in people with diabetes.
- Chromium: Chromium has been shown to reduce blood sugar levels and regulate insulin levels.
Many pharmacists recommend Nature Made Daily Diabetes Health Pack for people with diabetes. It’s packed with B vitamins, vitamin C, and chromium. Alternatively, Doctor’s Choice for Diabetics offers similar essential nutrients that may help people with diabetes maintain healthy sugar levels.
Completia Diabetic Multivitamin by Nature’s Way is also a good choice for diabetes looking for a general multivitamin. It is designed with the unique needs of people with diabetes in mind and contains a total daily dose of vitamins B1 and C.
What Is the Best Multivitamin Supplement For Athletes?
Athletes should look for multivitamins with the following key ingredients; B vitamins, Iron and Vitamin A.
- B vitamins: B vitamins are essential for energy and metabolism. Low levels of vitamin B are linked to poor athletic performance.
- Iron: Iron is crucial to red blood cells and muscle building, two essential factors for athletes.
- Vitamin A: Athletes need more vitamin A than most people, and vitamin A deficiency is linked to poor athletic performance.
Vita JYM Daily Multivitamin is popular for athletes because it contains all the B vitamins, iron, and vitamin A you need. Vita JYM also removes unnecessary ingredients that may impact your uptake of other vitamins, such as magnesium and zinc.
Onnit Total Human multivitamins are also excellent for athletes. This supplement contains all of your necessary B vitamins and vitamin E, which can prevent oxidative damage incurred during exercise.
AnimalPak is a multivitamin supplement designed for athletes and highly active people. It contains tons of B vitamins, vitamin A, and more than 80 other essential nutrients.
Are Multivitamins Safe for Health?
Yes, Multivitamins are considered safe for healthy individuals. If you are looking for a health supplement, multivitamins are the effective at boosting nutrient deficiency baselines. However, it is always important to consult with a doctor before starting any new supplement protocol.
Better Energy
Improved Hair & Skin
Increased Immune System
