Everybody has heard they should take their vitamins, and they are right! But, I know there are so many different types and it can be hard to know which vitamins are best.
Seriously, when's the last time you've browsed through the selections available? There are pill vitamins, capsule vitamins, gummy vitamins, powdered vitamins, liquid vitamins ... and maybe even some other options I'm missing.
With all these different choices, how are you supposed to know which ones are best for you? Well, I believe the best ones are going to be the ones your body can use most efficiently.
Just to be clear, when I say "vitamins", I'm talking about multivitamins in specific. However, what you learn today can be applied to individual vitamins as well.
Now, that's before we even discuss the doses and different ingredients found in vitamins. Because, at the same time, this will play an even bigger role in what will be best.
However, today let's discuss pill vitamins and powdered vitamins. In my experience, these are the two most popular types out there. So, what are the differences? Which one is better for you?
Let's dive into each and how they work so you have a better understanding.
Pill Vitamins
There is a difference between a capsule vitamin and a hard-pressed pill … So first, we have to define what a pill vitamin actually is. You see, vitamin pills are hard-pressed tablets. Sometimes, these pills or tablets are coated with a material called a polymer. This simply means there is a layer that covers the vitamins.
Capsules, on the other hand, are actually filled with powder. For this reason, I would actually consider these to be powdered vitamins. But, let's get back to vitamin pills...
Of any type of vitamin supplement you'll find, pills are the most common. Now, what are the pros and cons of these kinds of vitamins?
Pros of Pill Vitamins
- They have fewer additives. Since there don’t tend to be flavors, they are more than likely going to consist of only vitamins and minerals. However, the same can be said about powder filled capsules.
- They could have a longer shelf life. Many pill vitamins can take twice as long to expire because of how heavily they can be processed. However, depending on how you think about this, it could also be a con.
- Pill vitamins can mask unpleasant tastes. There are coatings that can make these pills easier to swallow by covering up the bitter taste of vitamins and minerals. This is the main reason why most multivitamins come in tablets or powder-filled capsules.
Cons of Pill Vitamins
- They can have a slower absorption rate. This could be because it can take a longer time for the body to break down coated, heat-compressed pills.
- Pill vitamins could cause stomach discomfort. I have run into this issue myself a few times in the past.
- You can only fit so much into a pill. Pills can only be so large. There are limited amounts of nutrients that can be put into a single given pill. That means a good pill vitamin may be very large or require you to take quite a few for one serving.
Powdered Vitamins and Powder-Filled Capsules
Powdered vitamins are a great way to make sure that you can get even more out of your vitamins. This is what I personally take because I notice a big difference with them in terms of how I feel.
Pros of Powdered Vitamins
- Can be easier for your body to absorb. Because powdered vitamins aren't heat-compressed or coated, they could be digested more quickly. Even with powder-filled capsules, the capsules can be very easy to break down and digest.
- You can mix them with other supplements. There are powdered vitamins that come flavored! They can mix great with water alone, to flavor other drinks, or even in a smoothie! Even with powder-filled capsules, you can dump the powder into a smoothie by breaking the capsule.
- Can contain higher concentrations of essential vitamins and minerals. However, this can still vary from brand to brand and something you should check the supplement label for.
Cons of Powdered Vitamins
- They can be unpleasant tasting. Vitamins are naturally bitter-tasting. However, the flavored powders are normally good. Again, this will just vary depending on the brand you choose. Powder-filled capsules, however, won't have this issue.
- There is no way to get 100% consistent measurements of specific nutrients in each scoop. When it’s a powder, there is no way to know you get the exact same amount of each nutrient in every serving. Powder-filled capsules can though. Each capsule should be dosed according to exactly what's on the supplement label.
How To Choose The Best Vitamins
So, what’s best for you … Powdered vitamins or pills? When I'm helping others with their health and fitness goals, I always recommend the best quality. That applies to the vitamins and supplements you take to the foods you eat as well.
While I prefer powders, because they can be easier to absorb, that doesn't mean all powdered vitamins are made equal. It's always best to read the supplement/nutrition label to make sure you're getting the micronutrients your body needs.
After all, if you want to look and feel your best, your body needs these essential vitamins and minerals. Why cut yourself short by giving your body less than it truly needs?
Which Vitamin Should You Use? Pill Vitamins or Powdered Vitamins?
I know, there are an endless number of options out there when it comes to vitamins. Plus, it can be hard to interpret a supplement label without the knowledge of exactly what your body needs.
That's why I'd choose a vitamin that comes from a reputable brand. At 1st Phorm, our mission is to help real people like you and me earn real and long-term results. We know you don't take any shortcuts when it comes to your nutrition and training. That's why we don't take any shortcuts when it comes to the supplements to help you reach your goals!
1st Phorm supplements are founded on quality and measured on results. That's why I know you'll love the high-quality powdered vitamins we have to offer. Personally, I take Micro Factor.
Micro Factor is a complete daily nutrient packet, and it's also available in a delicious flavored powder too. With Micro Factor, you won't just get essential micronutrients your body wants, but also far more than that. You'll get a multivitamin, essential fatty acids, antioxidants, fruits & veggies, and a probiotic to support full-body health.
I've never had anything like Micro Factor, and I'm sure you haven't either. I can't believe how big of a game-changer it's been for my overall health and well-being!
When I take it consistently, I have more energy and a better mood, and I don’t get sick nearly as often!
Just check out Micro Factor Packets or Micro-Factor Powder for yourself! If you're looking strictly for a daily multivitamin, we offer those as well. You can see all the multivitamins we have to offer here.
If you have any questions or need help in the meantime, don’t hesitate to reach out! We have a full team of NASM Certified Personal Trainers and Nutrition Coaches right here in St. Louis, Missouri. Just give us a call at 1-800-409-9732 or send us an email at CustomerService@1stPhorm.com any day from 6 AM to 10 PM Central.
