Gummy vitamins may contain critical nutrients but their manufacturing can leave out essential ones, adding excess sugar. They typically consist of gelatin, corn starch, water and sugar as well as possible sugar alcohols (like sorbitol) which may cause digestive issues for some individuals.
Gummies contain artificial dyes and fillers, leading to overconsumption which could potentially lead to vitamin and mineral toxicity.
Better Bioavailability
When it comes to digesting vitamins and absorbing them into your system efficiently, the type of vitamin is key. Gummy vitamins have been designed specifically to dissolve more quickly in your digestive system than pills, helping the vitamin to quickly enter your bloodstream and be used appropriately.
Gummies contain sugar or sugar substitutes and should be avoided for health reasons by those looking to limit or avoid their sugar consumption. They may also contain citric acid which wears away tooth enamel.
Gummies were originally intended for children but have become incredibly popular with adults too. Made up of gelatin, corn starch, sugar or its equivalent and various flavoring ingredients – including gelatin – these treats can contain single vitamins such as D or C or multivitamins. According to both an initial pilot study and larger, confirmatory single site cross-over design study comparing two preparations, the gummy formulation led to better gastrointestinal absorption of D3, with greater peak circulating concentration at various time points as a result.
They’re More Fun to Take
Gummy vitamins are a convenient and accessible way to develop a daily vitamin-taking habit, particularly for people who struggle with pill or capsule tolerance or swallowing issues. Furthermore, they offer children the chance to discover that taking their vitamins can be fun!
Gummies should still be enjoyed as candy in moderation. Many contain added sugars such as sucrose, glucose and fructose that could contribute to obesity or other health conditions when consumed excessively. Furthermore, many contain artificial flavors or additives which may be difficult for some individuals to digest or tolerate.
Gummy vitamins may not contain as many essential nutrients, since manufacturers find it more difficult to pack candy-like supplements with vital elements. Therefore, it’s essential that you review nutrition guidelines before selecting the supplements best suited for you personally. You may wish to speak to a dietitian as well to ensure you’re selecting appropriate supplements.
They Help Establish the “Vitamin Habit”
Vitamins can be difficult to get children used to taking on a regular basis. Gummies make taking their multivitamins fun and easier for children by making taking them a part of everyday routine. With candy-like flavors, children easily form the habit of taking them regularly.
Gummy candies contain sugar, which quickly adds up. According to the American Heart Association’s recommendations, women should consume no more than 25 grams and 36 grams respectively daily, while many gummy vitamins contain between 2-8 grams per serving.
Gummy vitamins tend to degrade more quickly than their tablet counterparts, leading to overdoses more rapidly and making some fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E and K toxic in high doses. Panicked Mumsnet moms may post on forums seeking advice when their children consume an entire jar in one sitting – too much can also lead to digestive issues and nausea in adults.
They Fill in Nutritional Gaps
Gummy vitamins can fill nutritional gaps for those who do not follow a balanced diet or who cannot choose one, especially those with medical conditions that make absorbing certain nutrients harder or who are pregnant. Gummies also make an ideal solution for children who won’t take pills and adults with difficulty chewing or swallowing large capsules and tablets.
Gummy vitamins come with one major drawback: too much added sugar. Most brands contain two to eight grams per serving, which quickly adds up. Even “sugar-free” varieties contain citric acid which wears away teeth enamel and increases cavity risk.
An ideal approach would be to consume foods rich in vitamins and minerals while only taking supplements as directed by a healthcare provider. If opting for gummy vitamins, look for brands with minimal sugar content and third-party testing.
