Gummy vitamins offer an easy-to-swallow solution for adults looking to supplement their diet with minerals; however, they may not deliver as many essential nutrients.
Manufacturers find it challenging to include certain minerals in gummies due to their large molecules and potential flavor disruption. Plus, certain nutrients have an unpleasant metallic taste that’s hard to mask.
Magnesium
Magnesium is required in over 300 biochemical reactions in the human body. It helps maintain normal blood pressure levels, boost immune systems and ensure bone strength; additionally it regulates blood sugar levels. Many studies demonstrate how magnesium supplements may aid those suffering from certain health conditions.
Magnesium supplements could reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes for people who are overweight or have a family history of it, according to one large study involving over 9,000 adults. One such research effort demonstrated that taking magnesium supplements for 43 months significantly lowered the risk of type 2 diabetes when compared with taking placebo tablets as the control.
Foods rich in magnesium include pumpkin and chia seeds, dry roasted almonds, spinach, black beans and edamame; however, many people do not consume enough magnesium-rich foods to benefit from supplementation, according to Ansari. She suggests trying to meet daily magnesium requirements through food first before resorting to taking supplements; taking too much may cause side effects such as stomach upset, nausea diarrhea and an elevated magnesium blood level (hypomagnesemia).
Calcium
Calcium is essential to building and maintaining strong bones, nerve function and muscles. Dairy products like milk and yogurt are the main sources of calcium; other sources include soymilk, fruits & vegetables as well as certain fortified breakfast cereals & beverages that contain fortified sources.
Most forms of calcium supplements can be easily absorbed by the body when taken with meals; however, certain forms may cause constipation and bloating; therefore it is wiser to try taking smaller doses or switching up supplements in order to minimize any negative side effects.
Studies have suggested that high calcium intake from supplements or food can increase the risk of heart disease; more research needs to be conducted into this relationship. Other research indicates that taking vitamins and minerals (MVMs) reduces esophageal cancer risks; however, results vary widely; always consult your physician prior to beginning to take an MVM supplement to select an ideal product for yourself.
Zinc
Zinc is an essential nutrient, essential for immune health and cell support as well as maintaining healthy hair, skin and nails. You can find zinc in oysters, red meat, poultry, shellfish, beans, whole grains and dairy products as well as supplements and in many gummy vitamins and other forms.
Zinc supplements may help enhance both male and female sexual desire, improve orgasm and increase vaginal moisture and satisfaction. Studies have revealed that those with low zinc levels often suffer from poor orgasm and decreased libido.
Most people can meet their vitamin and mineral needs through eating a well-rounded diet(Link to external site), including all of the major food groups. If they can’t do that alone, supplements(Link to external site) may provide assistance; gummies provide an easier option that may make taking pills less of an inconvenience for some individuals.
Other Ingredients
Vitamin gummies contain water soluble vitamins as well as other ingredients like natural and artificial sweeteners, fillers and colors – including refined sugar which has been linked with obesity, high blood pressure and diabetes as well as heart disease, liver damage and depression according to certain studies.
Gelatin is often the base ingredient in gummies, although plant-based options may also be suitable. Vegan gummies have become increasingly popular among those on restricted diets or pregnant women; manufacturers may include citric acid to aid with gelling the candies once made. Once ready for shipping or sale, gummies need to be packaged using equipment like an unscrambler, capper, induction sealer and cartoner before they are stored on shelves for two years or longer – shipping or selling may then follow.
