10 best vitamin D supplements of 2023, with medical expert tips

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Vitamin D is an essential fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in maintaining good health. It acts as a hormone and regulates various cellular functions in our bodies.

Apart from its role in calcium absorption in the gut, vitamin D is also necessary for muscle movement and nerve signaling. It is often referred to as the “sunshine vitamin” because our skin can produce it when exposed to sunlight. Additionally, vitamin D is naturally present in some foods and is added to cow’s milk for public health reasons.

While vitamin D can be obtained from sunlight and certain foods, some people may experience a deficiency or want to supplement their intake with vitamin D supplements. In this article, we provide a comprehensive guide on vitamin D supplements, including intake, dosage, deficiencies, and more. We have enlisted the help of a registered dietitian, a double-board-certified physician, and a pharmacist to ensure that we cover all aspects of this essential vitamin.

We have also conducted rigorous research and examined studies to compile a list of the 10 best vitamin D supplements of 2023. Each supplement has been reviewed by a third-party laboratory testing site or carries expert-recommended safety labels to ensure the accuracy of the product’s contents.

To provide you with a clear overview, we have included a detailed informational table that highlights each supplement’s formulation type, recommended dose, percentage of the nutritional daily value, third-party testing, and who it is best suited for.

Supplements are not regulated by the FDA, so it is essential to consult with your trusted medical advisor or doctor before using any supplements.

Best Vitamin D Supplement Pills

1. NOW High Potency Vitamin D-3 1000 IU Supplements, $8 (original price: $17)

• Form: Softgel
• Dose: 1 softgel daily with a meal
• % DV: 125%
• Count: 360; 180 also available
• Price: $

NOW High Potency Vitamin D-3 1000 IU Supplements have received an A rating on Labdoor, a third-party testing resource. This supplement offers great value, meets expert recommendations for adults, and has excellent absorbability. With over 9,000 positive reviews on Amazon and a GMP certification, it is a reliable choice for vitamin D supplementation.

2. Source Naturals Vitamin D-3 1000 IU Dietary Supplement, $9 to $11

• Form: Tablet
• Dose: 1 to 2 tablets daily with a meal
• % DV: 250%
• Count: 200; 100 also available
• Price: $

Source Naturals Vitamin D-3 1000 IU Dietary Supplement is another highly rated option. It has been granted the highest rating on Labdoor and contains an expert-recommended safe amount of vitamin D. This supplement is readily available online and is impressively affordable. It contains the optimal form of vitamin D (cholecalciferol) and is known for its efficiency in meeting the body’s needs.

Best Vitamin D Chewable Supplements

1. Nordic Naturals Vitamin D3 Gummies, $19

• Form: Gummy
• Dose: 1 gummy daily with a meal
• % DV: 125%
• Count: 120; 60 also available
• Price: $$

Nordic Naturals Vitamin D3 Gummies are a top-rated choice for chewable supplements. They have received the highest rating on Labdoor and are free of dairy, gelatin, and GMOs, making them easy to digest. These vegetarian gummies have a pleasing taste and contain cholecalciferol for optimal vitamin D absorption. They have also undergone stringent third-party lab testing and are Non-GMO tested.

2. Nature Made Vitamin D3 Chewable Tablets, $11

• Form: Tablet
• Dose: 1 tablet daily with a meal
• % DV: 125%
• Count: 100; 300 also available
• Price: $

Nature Made is a well-known brand, and their D3 Chewable Tablets have earned the highest possible rating on Labdoor. These tablets are easy to take and perfect for those following a gluten-free diet. They have a satisfying grape flavor and have received over 3,000 positive reviews. With their commitment to ingredient testing and purification, Nature Made ensures the quality and purity of their supplements.

Best Vitamin D Vegan Capsules

1. HUM Here Comes the Sun D3 Supplement, $8 to $15

• Form: Softgel
• Dose: 1 softgel daily with a meal
• % DV: 250%
• Count: 30
• Price: $

HUM Here Comes the Sun D3 Supplement stands out as one of the few vegan vitamin D supplements assessed by ConsumerLabs. It undergoes rigorous clinical testing and is transparent about its scientific third-party testing. This supplement contains cholecalciferol and uses vegan-friendly organic extra-virgin olive oil as a carrier for the vitamin D. It is also Clean Label Project-certified.

2. Ritual Multivitamin for Women 18+, $34

• Form: Capsule
• Dose: 2 capsules daily with a meal
• % DV: 250%
• Count: 60
• Price: $$$

Ritual Multivitamin for Women 18+ is a great option for those looking for a vegan vitamin D supplement. These capsules are allergen- and gluten-free, USP-verified, and specifically designed to support holistic health. With a delayed-release capsule form, they are gentle on the stomach and ensure better nutrient absorption. Ritual’s commitment to transparency and meeting label expectations makes it an excellent choice for a vegan supplement.

Best Prenatal Vitamins with Vitamin D

1. Modern Fertility Prenatal Multivitamin, $35

• Form: Capsule
• Dose: 2 capsules daily with a meal
• % DV: 100%
• Count: 60
• Price: $$$

Modern Fertility Prenatal Multivitamin contains the recommended amount of vitamin D for pregnant women. It meets expert dietitian recommendations and contains a range of essential vitamins and minerals suitable for prenatal care. This supplement is gluten-free, OBGYN-tested and developed, and has been designed to support your holistic health during pregnancy. Consult with your healthcare provider regarding the levels of nutrients in the supplement.

2. Garden of Life Prenatal Gummies, $26 (original price: $35)

• Form: Gummy
• Dose: 4 gummies daily with a meal
• % DV: 133%
• Count: 120
• Price: $$$

Garden of Life Prenatal Gummies provide a slightly higher amount of vitamin D than recommended. However, they are a reliable choice for those who prefer chewable prenatals. These gummies have a pleasing organic berry flavor, are vegan, USDA-organic, and Non-GMO verified. Garden of Life’s commitment to ingredient testing and purification ensures that you are getting a high-quality supplement.

Best Vitamin D Supplements for Kids and Babies

1. Carlson Baby’s Super Daily D3 Baby Vitamin D Drops, $13

• Form: Drops
• Dose: 1 drop daily; can be added to food or drink
• % DV: 100%
• Count: 365 drops
• Price: $

Carlson Baby’s Super Daily D3 Baby Vitamin D Drops are an excellent option for infants. They have been assessed by ConsumerLabs and received a high grade for their purity-tested ingredients. These drops can be added to your baby’s food or drink during feeding and provide an easy and affordable solution to fill in vitamin D gaps. They are also vegetarian-friendly.

2. Nordic Naturals Vitamin D3 Gummies Kids, $19

• Form: Gummy
• Dose: 1 gummy daily with a meal
• % DV: 50%
• Count: 120 gummies; 60 also available
• Price: $$

Nordic Naturals Vitamin D3 Gummies Kids are a top-rated choice for children. They have the highest rating on Labdoor and meet expert recommendations for vitamin D intake. These gummies are easy to chew, Non-GMO tested, and have undergone third-party purity testing. Their watermelon splash flavor adds to the appeal and makes them an enjoyable option for kids.

Conclusion

Choosing the right vitamin D supplement is essential for maintaining good health and well-being. The supplements listed above have been thoroughly researched, independently tested, and recommended by experts in the field. However, it is always important to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

Remember, supplements are not regulated in the same way as food or drugs. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure the quality and purity of the supplement you choose. Look for reputable brands, third-party testing, and expert recommendations on the label. By doing so, you can make an informed decision and select the best vitamin D supplement for your individual needs.

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