In a perfect world, we'd get all of our essential vitamins and nutrients from food. But given the influx of processed foods and artificial ingredients in our modern-day diets, that's not always the case. That's where a daily multivitamin can help, especially if you're over 40.
"Women aged 40-plus are more likely to be dealing with poor digestion, hormonal imbalances, and nutrient deficiencies," said JJ Virgin, a certified nutritionist specialist and four-time New York Times best-selling author. At this particular age, ingredients like vitamins D and K, omega-3 fatty acids like EPA and DHA, bioactive folate 5-MTHF, magnesium, calcium, and antioxidants can support hormonal, digestive, and immune health.
While the decision to take a daily multivitamin is ultimately up to you and your doctor, there's no harm in doing some research ahead of that discussion. Below, read up on three multivitamins Virgin recommends for women aged 40 and up, as well as our editor-selected budget alternatives.
1. Designs for Health Primal Multi
The Primal multivitamin was designed to mimic the nutrients found in an "optimal evolutionary human diet," reads the website. As such, the formula contains phytonutrients like resveratrol, broccoli seed, and broccoli sprout, which were more prominent in our Paleolithic-era diets. Virgin loves that all of the ingredients are either naturally occurring or bioidentical. She also notes that the Primal Multi contains vitamin E in the form of tocotrienols from annatto extract, which offer high levels of antioxidants and a host of health benefits.
2. Primal Blueprint's Master Formula
A top-rated multivitamin, Primal Blueprint's Master Formula is brimming with 51 potent minerals, antioxidants, and phytonutrients all designed to fill the perceived nutritional gaps in our modern diets. Virgin notes that all of the ingredients included in the formula are bioavailable, meaning they're easiest for our bodies to use and absorb. According to reviewers, the Master Formula is well worth the money. It contains all of the essential vitamins and minerals in one formula that you'd otherwise have to buy separately (at upward of $15 apiece).
3. Dr. Christianson Daily Reset Packs
Formulated by thyroid expert Alan Christianson, the Daily Reset Packs were designed specifically to support thyroid health. Considering the fact that one in eight women will develop a thyroid disorder during her lifetime, it's worth discussing a thyroid-specific multivitamin with your doctor. Virgin loves that his formulation includes "essential fats, vitamin D, and methylated B vitamins, which are powerful, health-boosting antioxidants."
Shop Budget Alternatives
Olly's berry-flavored multivitamin gummies are just as nourishing as they are delicious. Each flavorful drop contains energy-supporting vitamin B, strengthening calcium, biotin, and folic acid.
This food-based multivitamin boasts 4333 Amazon reviews, 75% of which are four or five stars. Packed with probiotics, choline, and vitamins B, C, and E, this vegetarian and gluten-free option supports bone, breast, immune, and nervous system health.
This top-rated multivitamin is specifically designed to replenish the nutrients your body lacks past age 40. The formula contains "4.5 milligrams of iron to replenish stores lost during menstruation, B vitamins to support healthy energy production, and biotin, beta carotene, and vitamins A, C, and E for radiant hair, skin, and nails," reads the website.
One a Day Women's Complete Multivitamins were formulated to address bone, immune, skin, heart, and cardiovascular health. Key ingredients include vitamins A, B6, C, D, E, and K, specifically riboflavin, thiamin, and niacin.
New Chapter's advanced multivitamins are brimming with 24 vitamins and minerals, plus superfood herbs like ginger, organic turmeric, and chaste tree berry.
This whole-food dietary supplement is packed with superfoods, adaptogenic herbs, 20 vitamins and minerals, and dong quai extract, which can help treat menopausal symptoms.
Vitamin Code multivitamins support breast, reproductive, bone, skin, and digestive health, mainly through the use of live probiotics, enzymes, and antioxidants.
This certified-organic, non-GMO, vegan, and gluten-free multivitamin is an ideal choice for women with dietary restrictions. It's formulated with vegan D3, two milligrams of iron, organic vitamin B12, and vitamin B.
A tried-and-true brand with a new look, Nature Made women's multis contain 23 essential nutrients, including calcium, folic acid, iron, and vitamin D.
Ritual has two different multivitamins for women: one for ages 18 to 49 and one for 50-plus. The 50-plus formula supports immune function, heart health, bone health, and muscle function. It's formulated with post-menopausal needs in mind, so it doesn't contain iron.
Sakara Life's The Foundation contains plant-based, medical-grade ingredients. Each pack comes with a superfood multivitamin, macro minerals, algae omega, a B complex vitamin, and a probiotic. It's supposed to improve gut health, increase energy levels, boost immunity, and keep bones strong.
This multivitamin for women 50 and over contains B-vitamins, vitamin D3, calcium, and more to promote healthy bones, eyes, and high energy levels.
Formulated with vitamins C, D, and K; calcium; magnesium; zinc; and antioxidants, these supplements work to boost immunity and promote bone, breast, and heart health. They're allergen-free, too.
This clean, additive-free multivitamin features a unique combination of ubiquinol, methylated folate, and broccoli extracts to keep you feeling your best.
Next: These Are the Vitamins to Take for a Stronger Immune System
This article was originally published at an earlier date and has been updated.
This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used in the place of advice of your physician or other medical professionals. You should always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider first with any health-related questions.
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