How Do I Choose the Best Liquid Multivitamin?

If you have narrowed down your multivitamin options to a liquid form, you have taken a key step toward picking the right one for you, though there are other considerations that can factor into your final decision. You may want to compare the various liquid forms, checking their ingredients to be sure essential vitamins are included, taking into account any special nutritional needs you may have. For example, if you are pregnant, nursing or lacking in a particular mineral, you should make sure the one you need is included in the liquid multivitamin that you ultimately buy. As you check the ingredients, you also should make sure there are no chemical preservatives or trace metals. Additionally, consider the small details that can make a big difference, such as the dosage of each vitamin and the flavor of the product.

A high-quality liquid multivitamin typically contains vitamins A, C and E, because these are often considered the basic necessities. Many reputable brands also feature vitamin D, B-complex vitamins and folic acid. Zinc, manganese and niacin are some other ingredients that often show up in quality multivitamins. If your doctor has recommended extra calcium, iron or other important vitamins, you will want to look for a product that includes these — or take additional supplements with only iron or calcium while also taking a standard liquid multivitamin.

While making sure nothing has been left out of the liquid multivitamin you are considering, you also should ensure that it does not contain any undesirable ingredients. For example, chemical preservatives are not recommended, because they can damage human organs over time. Instead, consider liquid multivitamins that use natural preservatives, which are often considered safer and can keep the product just as fresh. Additionally, trace metals such as gold and silver are not usually present in top-quality liquid multivitamins, because they are not typically necessary and can be harmful. Tin and aluminum are other common trace metals that you should avoid when looking for a liquid multivitamin.

Once you find a product with ingredients that satisfy your nutritional needs, you should consider the details. For example, make sure the dosages are not excessive, because some vitamins are harmful when too much is taken in one day. Compare the dosages across several products to make sure the liquid multivitamin you are considering does not include excessive amounts of any mineral. You also can ask your doctor about the recommended dosage for your circumstances so you do not overdose. Finally, select a product with a flavor you like; you can choose from traditional flavors such as cherry or grape or from more exotic tastes, such as mango or grapefruit.