The best vitamin D supplement depends on your specific needs, but experts generally recommend vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) over D2 because D3 raises and maintains blood vitamin D levels more effectively and for longer
. Here are some top-rated vitamin D3 supplements in various forms and for different preferences: Capsules and Tablets:
- Vitabright Vitamin D3: well-reviewed and affordable
- NOW High Potency Vitamin D3 5,000 IU Softgels: good for high-dose needs
- NatureWise Vitamin D3: budget-friendly and effective
- Garden of Life Vitamin Code Raw D3: whole food-derived with probiotics
- Zooki Vitamin D3+K2: combines vitamin D3 with K2 for bone and cardiovascular support, suitable for vegans but avoid if on blood thinners
Liquid Supplements:
- Thorne Vitamin D Liquid: top pick for liquid form due to quality and safety
- Nordic Naturals Plant-Based Vitamin D3 Liquid: best vegan liquid option
Gummies:
- Garden of Life Vitamin Code D3 Plus K2 Gummies: good for kids and adults who prefer gummies
- Nutrigums Delicious Vitamin D3 Gummies: affordable and tasty
Specialty Supplements:
- Oh My Oh! Calcium With D3: combines calcium and vitamin D3 for bone health
- Life Extension Vitamins D and K with Sea-Iodine: supports bone, immune, and thyroid health with added iodine and vitamin K
Considerations:
- Vitamin D3 is fat-soluble, so oil-based supplements or taking them with a meal containing fat improves absorption
- Vitamin D3 supplements often come combined with vitamin K2 to help calcium metabolism.
- Dosage should be tailored to individual needs, typically ranging from 1,000 IU to 5,000 IU daily depending on deficiency and health status.
- For vegans, plant-based vitamin D3 or vitamin D2 options are available, but D3 is generally preferred for efficacy
Pharmacist and expert recommendations:
- Nature Made is highly recommended by pharmacists for quality and reliability
- Nordic Naturals and Thorne are favored for transparency and liquid formulations
In summary, the best vitamin D supplement is usually a vitamin D3 product tailored to your dosage needs and preferred form (capsule, liquid, gummy), with reputable brands like Nature Made, Thorne, Nordic Naturals, and Garden of Life frequently recommended by experts
