Do Gummy Vitamins and Supplements Really Work?

- Friday, November 1, 2024

When it comes to dietary supplements, most people will think of those little tasteless pills. But these days, there is a new, trendy way to add nutrients to people's daily routines—Gummies.

gummy vitamin

Inspired by gummy bears, gummy vitamins were first introduced to the market for kids. However, many adults nowadays, specifically Millennials and Gen Z, have become a major target market for these supplement gummies. These health-conscious individuals have been tired of the boring way of taking traditional supplements. Gummy vitamins offer them a more tasty and fun way to get essential nutrients.

Still, many people are wondering if they should trade in their traditional vitamins for the gummy format. Are gummy vitamins and supplements actually as effective as traditional ones? Let's find out in this post.

Advantages of Gummy Vitamins and Supplements

A survey shows that over 50% of respondents believe that gummy vitamins work better than other traditional formats. And according to NBJ (Nutrition Business Journal)'s data, 31% of Millennials and 45% of Gen Z favor gummies. These indicate that gummy vitamins and supplements are popular for a reason. So, why do these people prefer consuming gummy vitamins?

Advantages of Gummy Vitamins

  • Pleasant taste. Normally, gummy vitamins come with different fruity flavors, which make them palatable and easy to eat. This is important for those who can't stand the taste of regular vitamins and supplements.
  • Easy to chew and swallow. Many people, especially kids, older people, and persons with some condition, find it difficult to swallow pills or capsules, but gummies are chewable and easily swallowed.
  • Digest better. They go easy on the stomach most of the time. Because of their gummy consistency, they digest more easily since it is soft in nature.
  • Convenient. They have a water-independent dosage, making them perfect for on-the-go use. This can be helpful in a packed timetable, where easy and fast intake of vitamins becomes achievable for people hardly settled.
  • Kid-Friendly. The excellent taste and fun shapes of the gummy make it appealing. To the goodness of kids, this serves as a benefit for parents in terms of having their kids swallow them to get all the necessary vitamins.
  • Variety and personalization. Countless formulations and flavor options allow gummy vitamin products to be chosen according to individual tastes and nutrient needs.
  • Fewer additives. Some gummy vitamins offer fewer artificial additives; They are enhanced with natural colors and flavors, versus some traditional vitamins.

Disadvantages of Gummy Vitamins and Supplements

While gummy vitamins are an enjoyable way to take essential nutrients, their downsides cannot be overlooked.

  • High sugar level. Most gummy vitamins are high in sugar to make them taste good. They can lead the consumers to have different dental issues like cavities. They may also impact blood sugar and increase the risk of diabetes.

High sugar level

  • Poorly formulated. There is a fact you should know. The FDA does not regulate any dietary supplements. This means that you'll probably come across poorly formulated vitamins and supplements. Some of these gummy vitamins may leave out some essential nutrients or minerals. Some even contain artificial color, taste, flavor, or added preservatives for better taste and look.
  • Less nutrient content. According to some experts and product quality testing labs, quite a lot of gummy vitamins come with a lower amount of nutrient content than labeled on their packages. This can be translated to mean that the individual does not get to the recommended daily value of a variety of nutrients.

Less nutrient content

  • Overconsumption. The candy-like taste and appearance of gummy vitamins can be pretty tempting. They might provoke overdosing on these products, increasing the risk of vitamin toxicity. Plus, gummy vitamins can be quite costly in comparison to ordinary forms of vitamins, as they claim different manufacturing processes.
  • Shorter shelf life. This type of vitamin is seen to degrade quickly with time through exposure to light, heat, and moisture. This is likely to lower their potency and effectiveness.

Gummy Supplements vs. Traditional Supplements

Like traditional dietary supplements (in the form of capsules, softgels, or tablets), the gummy option is also packed with various vitamins, minerals, or nutritional ingredients. If you're overwhelmed by which one to buy, let's compare them side by side!

Feature

Gummy Supplements

Traditional Supplements

Convenience

Easy to take without needing water.

Typically require liquid or food for swallowing.

Taste

Usually have a sweet, fruity flavor.

Generally have little to no taste.

Ease of Consumption

Simple to chew and swallow, great for those who struggle with pills.

Can be difficult for some people to swallow.

Digestion

Break down and digest more quickly.

Take more time to be absorbed by the body.

Nutrient Content

May have fewer nutrients as labeled.

Tend to have more nutrients per serving.

Sugar Content

Contain added sugars and sometimes artificial flavors.

Usually sugar-free or contain minimal sugar.

Shelf Life

More prone to losing potency over time, especially in heat or light.

Generally have a longer shelf life and greater stability.

Portability

Convenient to carry and consume on the go.

Easy to travel with, but require water for use.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options

Often contain gelatin (from animals), but some vegan options are available.

More options available that suit vegetarians and vegans.

Variety

Available in many flavors and fun shapes.

Available in various forms (capsules, tablets, softgels), but less flavor variety.

Cost

Tend to be more expensive.

Generally more affordable.

 

Are Gummy Vitamins Truly Effective?

Now, let's get back on topic. The answer is obvious. Yes, gummy vitamins are effective, but perhaps not as much as you might expect.

Gummy vitamins make themselves a hit for folks who find swallowing pills a struggle or just want a more enjoyable way to get their nutrients. But there are some things to consider. The quality of what's inside, how much sugar they pack, and even how well they work in your body all play a role. While chewing them might help some nutrients get absorbed better, it's important to watch out for added sugars. Additionally, you need to store them properly to keep them effective.

It's always wise to chat with your healthcare provider before consuming any new supplement. Of course, if you really have trouble swallowing traditional supplements and your doctor tells you to do so, gummies can help. After all, it's better than taking nothing at all.

If you're interested in learning more about gummy vitamins and supplements, check out these informative posts:

 

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