Top 11 Best Vitamin D Supplements

Vitamin D is quite an essential nutrient for our health and well-being. Though sunlight exposure is the primary source of vitamin D, vitamin D supplements are often recommended to ensure optimal levels, especially when sunlight is limited or when life keeps us indoors. With the best vitamin D supplement, you have all you need.

However, choosing the best vitamin D supplements from the many options can be overwhelming, but worry less! Whether you want a dietary supplement to keep your kids strong and healthy or boost your vitamin D levels, we've got your back. Here's everything you need to know when looking for the best vitamin D supplement that meets your needs. Let's get started!

What is Vitamin D?

Vitamin D, "the sunshine vitamin," is usually a fat-soluble vitamin belonging to a group of compounds referred to as secosteroids. It's naturally found in some foods, such as fatty fish, egg yolks, beef liver, cod liver oil, fortified dairy products, and mushrooms.

Our body also produces it through the skin when exposed to sunlight. Vitamin D usually comes in different forms, mainly in vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). The body converts both forms into an active state before using them.

Low vitamin D is among the most common essential nutrient deficiencies globally. A study by Harvard Medical School states that vitamin D deficiency is quite common as we age because there aren't many naturally rich foods.

Vitamin D deficiency is usually associated with a higher risk of poor musculoskeletal health, like rickets, falls, osteomalacia, and poor muscle strength.

In cases where sunlight exposure or dietary intake is inadequate, vitamin D supplements may be recommended to maintain optimal vitamin D levels.

Top 3 Best Vitamin D Supplement for Adults

1. NatureWise Vitamin D3 5000 IU Mini Softgel, 360 Count
2. Riti Vitamin K2 + D3 Capsules
3. Nature's Bounty Vitamin D, 2000 IU, Softgels, 350 Ct.

NatureWise Vitamin D3 Mini Softgel offers a high potency of 5000 IU per softgel, providing a substantial vitamin D dose to promote healthy muscle function and immune support. Besides, the supplement comes in a mini softgel form, making it convenient to swallow, especially for individuals who may have difficulty swallowing larger pills.

NatureWise Vitamin D3 Mini Softgel uses cold-pressed olive oil as the carrier for its vitamin. Olive oil is a healthy fat that usually improves vitamin D absorption. This means that this supplement is fully absorbed and utilized by my body when I use it, optimizing its benefits. Moreover, this supplement is non-GMO and gluten-free.

The supplement offers a generous 360-count softgel, providing enough vitamin D for a year. This great deal saves me from buying my vitamin supplement often. Also, with a one-year supply, I can keep my vitamin D levels steady without interruption.

Pros

• It uses cold-pressed olive oil as the carrier for its vitamin D3.
• It is a non-GMO and gluten-free supplement.
• It promotes healthy muscle function and immune support
• It comes in a mini softgel form, which is easy to swallow.
• It provides a generous 360-day supply.

Cons

• It's not suitable for vegans or vegetarians.

If you're on the hunt for a reliable Vitamin K2 + D3 supplement, Riti Vitamin K2 + D3 Capsules should undoubtedly be on your radar. Packed with essential nutrients, this supplement offers a combination of Vitamin K2 and D3 to promote optimal bone health and overall well-being.

Pros

• Dual-action formula for enhanced bone health
• Synergistic blend of Vitamin K2 and D3 for maximum benefits
• Supports calcium absorption for strong and healthy bones
• Convenient capsule form for easy intake

Cons

• May not be suitable for those with specific vitamin sensitivities
• Potential for a slight aftertaste for some users

The standout feature of Riti Vitamin K2 + D3 Capsules lies in its dual-action formula. The synergistic blend of Vitamin K2 and D3 works in tandem to support optimal bone health. Vitamin K2 plays a crucial role in directing calcium to the bones and teeth, preventing its accumulation in arteries and soft tissues. Meanwhile, Vitamin D3 enhances calcium absorption, promoting the development and maintenance of strong, healthy bones.

The convenience of the capsule form makes incorporating this supplement into your routine a breeze. However, it's essential to note that individuals with specific vitamin sensitivities should exercise caution.

While the majority of users may not experience any issues, a potential downside for some could be a slight aftertaste. This is a minor consideration, but it's worth mentioning for those particularly sensitive to taste.

In summary, if you're seeking a Vitamin K2 + D3 supplement to fortify your bone health with a convenient and effective formula, Riti Vitamin K2 + D3 Capsules is a compelling option to explore.

Nature's Bounty 350 ct. Sofgels contain 2000 IU of vitamin D, providing a potent dose to help boost vitamin D levels in my body. Besides, these softgels deliver a concentrated dose of this essential vitamin to help strengthen my body's immune system. The supplement also helps the body absorb calcium, which is vital for strong, healthy bones.

Each Nature's Bounty Vitamin D 2000 IU bottle contains 350 softgels, so you'll have enough to last for months. This generous quantity makes it a great value for money, offering cost-effectiveness and convenience.

As the name suggests, the Nature's Bounty Vitamin D 2000 IU formula is non-GMO, gluten- and sugar-free, and has no artificial colors or sweeteners. Other ingredients include vegetable glycerin, corn oil, soybean oil, and gelatin.

Pros

• It provides a generous 350-day supply.
• It's easy to swallow and incorporate into your daily routine.
• It is a non-GMO, gluten- and sugar-free supplement.
• It provides immune system support.
• The supplement promotes optimal vitamin D levels in the body.

Cons

• What dosage works well for one person might not be suitable for another.

Nature Made Vitamin D3 2000 IU is a top-notch dietary supplement, with each bottle containing 220 tablets offering a whopping 220-day supply. This is enough supply to last me long before repurchasing. Besides, these tablets are easy to swallow.

The supplement offers a potent vitamin D and D3 dose, delivering 2000 IU or 50 mcg per tablet. One of the benefits of this dietary supplement is its effect on tooth and bone health. Vitamin D3 in the supplement is important for calcium absorption, which is vital for strong and healthy teeth and bones.

But that's not all—nature-made Vitamin D3 (2000 IU) promotes muscle health. It helps ensure my muscles function at their best, encouraging strength and general muscle performance. Another notable benefit of the supplement is that it helps strengthen my body's defense mechanisms.

Note that the recommended dosage might vary depending on personal needs and the advice of your healthcare professional.

Pros

• The supplement supports multiple aspects of health.
• It offers a long supply duration.
• The tablets are easy to swallow.
• It provides an adequate vitamin D3 dosage.

Cons

• It has a limited ingredient profile.

The Carlyle Vitamin D 10000 IU Supplement bottle has 400 softgels, providing a substantial supply of these essential nutrients and saving me from frequent repurchasing. Besides, the supplement has a potency of 10000 IU per softgel, providing a high dose of vitamin D per serving, making it ideal for those with specific vitamin D deficiency requirements.

This supplement is non-GMO and gluten-free, perfect for individuals with dietary sensitivities or restrictions. It is easy to swallow and doesn't have an unpleasant aftertaste. The smooth texture and well-designed softgels make it convenient to incorporate into daily supplement routines.

Carlyle Vitamin D 10000 IU Supplement supports overall health and well-being, including immune function, bone strength, and mood balance. So, with the supplement, I can address these areas of health and well-being and enjoy the benefits of maintaining optimal vitamin D levels.

Pros

• It is a non-GMO and gluten-free supplement.
• The size ensures a long-lasting supply.
• It's easy to swallow and doesn't have an unpleasant aftertaste.
• The supplement offers a high potency of 10000 IU.

Con

• It's not vegan or vegetarian-friendly.

Garden of Life Vitamin Code D3 50000IU has organic ingredients, with each bottle containing 60 easy-to-swallow capsules. You will have a two-month supply of vitamin D nutrients at your fingertips. Besides, the supplement is made from natural, whole foods, so I can be sure I'm getting vitamin D3 in its most natural and accessible form. This makes the supplement ideal for individuals looking for organic and raw vitamin D doses.

The supplement provides a potency of 5000 IU per capsule. It is crucial for encouraging calcium absorption, supporting bone health, and ensuring optimal bone density. Also, it helps maintain healthy muscles and teeth, supporting overall musculoskeletal well-being. Additionally, the supplement provides support for the immune system.

When it comes to dosage, note that the recommended dosage may vary depending on individual needs and the advice of a healthcare practitioner. We recommend consulting your healthcare provider to help you figure out the correct dosage for you.

Pros

• It features organic and raw ingredients.
• It contains a potent dose of 5000 IU of vitamin D3.
• The supplement supports a healthy immune system.
• It provides a two-month supply of vitamin D3.

Cons

• It has a higher price tag because of its organic and raw ingredient sourcing.

Vitamin D from Mommy's Bliss Organic Baby promotes bone development and healthy growth in kids. The drops ensure my baby gets the required amount of vitamin D, especially during those early years when their bones develop. Besides, this dietary supplement is made from high-quality, organic ingredients. It's free of artificial additives and unnecessary chemicals.

This liquid vitamin D supplement supports and strengthens my kids' immune systems from an early age. It is suitable for newborns and easy to include in your kid's daily routine. Whether added to the formula, breast milk, or even directly on the nipple, administering these drops is easy, ensuring your baby gets the required vitamin D levels.

Furthermore, these vitamin D drops' packaging is relatively user-friendly. The dropper allows for precise dosage without any guesswork. Also, with a pack of 4, I'm sure of a consistent supply without constantly restocking. Plus, each box offers 100 servings, making it a great value for the price.

Pros

• It is made from high-quality, organic ingredients.
• It boosts the healthy growth and development of infants and toddlers.
• It is a versatile vitamin D supplement for infants and toddlers.
• It offers great value for money.

Cons

• Some babies might have difficulty accepting the taste of the drops.

Zarbee's Vitamin D Drops have a potency of 400 IU of vitamin D per serving. It's age-appropriate for newborns and older, making it a versatile option for infants and toddlers. Whether added to breast milk, formula, or food, the vitamin drops easily blend into different liquids and foods without changing their taste.

These dietary supplements are free from unnecessary additives, artificial colors, and flavors. The focus on purity and simplicity instills confidence in the quality of the product. This usually reassures me that I'm giving my baby a safe and effective supplement.

The Zarbee's Vitamin D Drops package comes with a dropper syringe, which is a thoughtful addition. It facilitates a mess-free and accurate dosage, making the administration process more manageable. Moreover, the dropper syringe allows me to precisely measure and administer the required number of drops, providing peace of mind that my baby is constantly receiving the correct dosage.

Pros

• It allows easy administration and versatility.
• It comes with a dropper syringe, ensuring accurate and mess-free dosing.
• It's suitable for infants and toddlers of various ages.
• It's convenient to incorporate into your kids' daily routine.

Cons

• Additional supplementation is still recommended.

Carlson-Baby's Super Daily D3 has a potency of 400 IU of vitamin D per serving. This ensures my baby gets the right amount of these essential nutrients for healthy growth and development. Besides, the vitamin D supplement is a vegetarian product with no artificial flavors or preservatives. This means my baby can get the necessary nutrients without any unnecessary additives.

These vitamin D drops are easy to mix with different liquids, such as breast milk, formula, or water. This makes it convenient for me to incorporate the drops into my baby's daily routine, ensuring that the baby always gets the right amount of vitamin D.

The supplement comes with a dropper, which allows for accurate dosage measurement, making the administration of the drops easy. Also, the 365 drops offer a full year's supply. This convenience saves time, especially for busy parents.

Pros

• A liquid vitamin D supplement allowing easy administration and versatility
• It is made from a vegetarian formula.
• It offers a full year's supply, making it a cost-effective and convenient option.
• It is an unfavorable supplement.

Cons

• Some babies might have difficulty accepting the taste of the unflavored drops.

Nordic Naturals Baby Vitamin D3 contains 400 IU of vitamin D3 in each drop, delivering a potent dose to enhance immune system function, healthy bones, and regular sleep rhythms. It's non-GMO and vegetarian-certified, ideal for families with dietary restrictions or preferences.

The Vitamin D drops can be easily administered by blending them with breast milk, formula, or food without changing the taste or texture. This makes it convenient to incorporate into my kid's daily routine. With 365 servings, I get a year's supply in a single bottle. This saves me the trouble of constantly restocking and ensures my kids get the correct dose of vitamin D3.

Although there are many benefits to using Nordic Naturals Baby's Vitamin D3, there are a few downsides to keep in mind. Some infants may have difficulty accepting the unflavored taste, requiring creativity and extra patience during administration.

Pros

• It helps your baby establish healthy sleep habits.
• It is made from a vegetarian and non-GMO formula.
• It offers an impressive 365 servings.
• It enhances your baby's defense against infections and illnesses.

Cons

• Some infants might have difficulty accepting the taste of the unflavored drops.

The MaryRuth Organics Vitamin D3 K2 Drops is an excellent option for toddlers requiring additional calcium absorption support and strong bone development. The supplement combines the benefits of vitamin D3 and vitamin K-2, two essential nutrients that synergistically promote optimal bone health. This combination sets this supplement apart from other independent vitamin D supplements.

The MaryRuth Organics Vitamin D3 K2 supplement is vegan, non-GMO, and gluten-free, a huge plus for parents with dietary restrictions or preferences. Besides, the supplement is in liquid form, making it easy to blend with food or beverages and allowing seamless integration into my kids' daily routines. So my kids don't have to swallow pills.

Furthermore, the one fl oz size offers a sufficient supply of the supplement, ensuring that my kid has enough to last for an extended period. This makes it a cost-effective option because it reduces the need for regular restocking.

Pros

• It comes in liquid form for easy administration.
• It is made of a vegan, non-GMO, and gluten-free formula.
• Combining vitamin D3 and vitamin K-2 provides comprehensive support for overall health.
• The one fl oz size is enough to last for an extended period.

Cons

• Administering precise doses can be challenging

What Are the Common Benefits of Vitamin D Supplements?

1. Supports Bones and Teeth Health

Vitamin D usually strengthens and develops teeth and bones. It also helps maintain optimal levels of phosphorus and calcium, which are necessary for healthy tooth and bone mineralization.

Essentially, calcium, which benefits your teeth and bones, would be unable to function without vitamin D. You need vitamin D for strong teeth and bone growth—and to prevent teeth and bones from becoming brittle.

Vitamin D and calcium will prevent osteoporosis, a condition that causes a decrease in bone mineral density and quality.

2. Enhances Immune Function

Vitamin D is vital for supporting the immune system and reducing the risk of autoimmune diseases. It helps activate immune cells and boosts their function, making the body more resistant to infections. Besides, some studies suggest that vitamin D supplementation can reduce the risk of developing inflammatory diseases.

Individuals with inadequate vitamin D levels tend to get infections and autoimmune diseases like type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease.

3. Muscle Strength and Function

Vitamin D is vital for maintaining muscular strength and health. It helps prevent muscle wasting and atrophy and supports the production and functioning of muscle proteins.

Vitamin D deficiency in your body can cause weak muscles, which increases the risk of falls—a major issue that causes significant impairment and mortality, especially in older adults. Vitamin D supplements may benefit older adults, as they can help lower the risk of fractures and falls.

4. Improves Mood and Mental Health

Sun exposure can brighten up your mood, and so can vitamin D supplements. Vitamin D receptors are present in brain areas involved in mood regulation. Adequate vitamin D levels are associated with improved mood, and deficiencies of this essential nutrient have been linked to higher chances of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and depression. Therefore, supplementing with vitamin D may help reduce the symptoms of these conditions.

5. Reduces the Risk of Chronic Diseases

Vitamin D inadequacy has been linked to a higher chance of chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, some types of cancer (colon, breast, and prostate infections), and autoimmune disorders. Vitamin D supplements may help reduce the severity or risk of these conditions.

6. Supports Weight Loss

Individuals with obesity have a greater chance of low vitamin D levels, meaning more vitamin D may help with weight loss.

On the other hand, individuals taking daily vitamin D and calcium supplements may lose more weight than those taking a placebo supplement. This is because vitamin D and calcium have an appetite-suppressing effect.

However, note that although vitamin D supports weight loss, you should incorporate a nutritious diet, regular exercise, and healthy lifestyle habits into your daily routine as part of a comprehensive weight management plan.

Side Effects of Vitamin D Supplements

1. Vitamin D Toxicity

Although recommendations for adequate vitamin D levels vary, research indicates that 30–60 ng/mL levels are likely ideal. Consuming extremely high levels of vitamin D for a long period can result in vitamin D toxicity, also referred to as hypervitaminosis D.

Symptoms of hypervitaminosis D may include loss of appetite, vomiting, nausea, weakness, frequent urination, excessive thirst, constipation, and confusion. However, hypervitaminosis D is rare and occurs when a person takes extremely high dosages of vitamin D supplements, exceeding 10,000 IU per serving for a lengthy period.

We recommend consulting a healthcare expert on how many vitamin D supplements you should take.

2. Digestive Issues

Some individuals may experience digestive issues such as bloating, stomach pain, poor appetite, diarrhea, or constipation after taking vitamin D supplements. These side effects are mild and temporary, most of the time. Also, note that not all people experience the same symptoms.

If the symptoms persist or worsen, we recommend consulting a healthcare professional.

3. Allergic Reactions

Vitamin D supplementation has been linked to allergic reactions, although in extremely rare cases. Symptoms of an allergic reaction could include rashes, itching, hives, or difficulty breathing. We recommend seeking medical help immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.

4. Interference with Certain Medical Conditions

Vitamin D supplements may interfere with certain medications or health conditions. For instance, individuals with lymphoma, sarcoidosis, hyperparathyroidism, or granulomatous disorders should be cautious when taking these dietary supplements, as they can worsen these conditions.

5. Kidney Problems

Excessive intake of vitamin D supplements might potentially damage the kidneys over time. Since the kidneys are usually responsible for converting vitamin D into its active form, excessive vitamin D supplements might overwork them, resulting in kidney stones or, in the worst case, kidney failure.

Factors to Consider Before Buying the Best Vitamin D Supplement

1. Ingredients

Before buying the best vitamin D supplements, pay attention to the ingredients. If you are a vegan or vegetarian, you'll want to ensure that the components of the supplements are made from animal-based foods. On the other hand, if you prefer organic or non-GMO products, go for supplements with these certifications on their labels.

Moreover, if you have allergies or other sensitive issues, avoid supplements that contain ingredients that might cause the allergies, such as gluten, among other compounds and chemicals.

2. Types of Vitamin D Supplements

Vitamin D supplements usually come in three main types: liquids, capsules, or chewable.

I). Liquid Supplements

These supplements come in bottles with droppers and are administered in drops. It is recommended for those with difficulty swelling capsules, such as toddlers and older adults. Besides, these supplements can be added to food and drinks.

ii). Capsules

These supplements are usually in liquid form but contained inside a gelatin capsule. They are recommended for people who don't like the direct taste of liquid vitamin supplements.

iii). Chewables

Another option is chewable vitamin D if you don't like liquid or capsule supplements. They are also called gummy vitamin supplements and are designed to be sweet. They are ideal for those who dislike vitamin D drops or swallowing tablets. They are also perfect for kids since they can take them as treats, making it easier to administer them.

3. Forms of Vitamin D

As mentioned earlier, vitamin D has two primary forms: vitamin D2 and vitamin D3. Vitamin D2 is plant-based and comes from plants such as wild mushrooms. Conversely, vitamin D3 comes from sunlight exposure, animal sources, or dietary supplements.

Most vitamin D2 is sold as a prescription, while vitamin D3 is sold over the counter. This is because vitamin D2 has a potency of over 50,000 IU, while vitamin D3 has lower amounts. Also, D3 is more readily absorbed in the body.

4. Vitamin D Dosage

Too little or too much vitamin D will harm you. Follow the NIH's recommended daily allowance (RDA) for your intake and upper limit. Alternatively, you can consult your healthcare professional for guidance.

• Elderlies above 70 years old: 800 IU to 4,000 IU
• Adults between 19 & 70 years of age: 600 IU to 4,000 IU
• Teenagers between 14 & 18 years of age: 600 IU to 4,000 IU
• Kids between 1 & 13 years of age: 600 IU to 2,500 IU
• Infants between birth and one year old: 400 IU to 1,000 IU
• Breastfeeding and pregnant women: 600 IU to 4,000 IU

This recommended dietary allowance prevents shortfalls instead of enhancing overall health. Therefore, if an individual is at a greater risk of vitamin D inadequacy, for instance, a larger vitamin D dosage may be required.

Furthermore, keep in mind that the RDA represents the total intake from supplements and dietary sources. You may need to adjust your vitamin supplement dosage if you get vitamin D from other sources, like sunlight exposure or fortified foods.

5. Third-Party Testing

When shopping for the best vitamin D supplement, ensure it's third-party tested. Go for a vitamin D supplement brand that conducts third-party testing to ensure its products' purity, potency, and quality. Check out certifications from reputable organizations such as NSF International or the USP (United States Pharmacopeia).

Look for information on the product label or the manufacturer's website to see if a vitamin D supplement has passed third-party testing. If you find certifications mentioning independent testing, the product has been tested.

However, though third-party testing adds credibility to a product, it does not guarantee effectiveness or individual results. It's therefore recommended to consult a healthcare practitioner or a certified nutritionist before starting any new vitamin D supplement to determine its suitability for your specific requirements and circumstances.