Best and Worst Multivitamins for Seniors 2024

Jan 16, 2024

After writing my first article on multivitamins titled The Best and Worst Multivitamins, I received requests for both an article on multivitamins for seniors and for prenatal vitamins. Neither of these are an easy feat because it is impossible to get everything you need in one pill. But I am also up to a challenge to help people simplify their search by knowing what to look for.

If you are interested in learning more details about multivitamins, I recommend reading my first article on multivitamins. Or if you just want to know the best and worst multivitamins for seniors, scroll right to the bottom. But for this article, I’m going to give you a roadmap for understanding what you need to know to prevent many of the disorders linked to aging, and how you can make informed decisions about your diet and supplementation.

The Baby Boomers

You may be surprised to learn that a senior citizen starts at age 60. I think the perception of this age has changed quite a bit in one generation, and 60 is starting to seem much younger. So with respect to my parents (who are 77 and 79) who hate the term “senior citizens,” I will refer to the group as the “older generations.”

Many of the people in this generation grew up with parents that smoked, drank too much, embraced margarine/vegetable oils, white bread, and sugar, and experienced a lot of cardiovascular diseases. The baby boomers learned from their parent’s mistakes, for the most part. By simply dropping the smoking and margarine habit alone from the previous generation, they dropped the risk of cardiovascular disease considerably.

You hear a lot of negative statistics about the rates of disease as we age. The fact of the matter is that many of these diseases are not destined by fate or genetics, but actions. According to the CDC, heart disease, stroke, cancer, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and arthritis are the most common and costly and preventable of all health problems. What isn’t on this list is Alzheimer’s and dementia, which I believe can also be explained as a preventable.

Prescription Drugs Contributing to Cognitive Decline

According to the Harvard Center of Ethics, prescription drugs are the 4th leading cause of death, tied with a stroke. Alzheimer’s disease is the fifth-leading cause of death for those age 65 and older. I find it interesting that we focus a lot of attention of finding a cure to Alzheimer’s and dementia, yet very little attention is focused on the drugs that may be majorly contributing to cognitive decline in the first place.

In the book Drug Muggers and Supplement Your Prescription, you can look up what nutrients your drugs are depleting. In certain cases, your medications may be causing memory and other health disorders due to these depletions and toxicities.

  • According to WebMD, possible drugs that can cause memory loss include antidepressants, antihistamines, anti-anxiety medications, muscle relaxants, tranquilizers, sleeping pills, and pain medications given after surgery.
  • According to the CDC, the most frequently prescribed therapeutic classes include analgesics (pain killers), antihyperlipidemic agents (Statins) and antidepressants.

Interesting yes? Let’s not forget Statins which should also be on this memory list.

1. Anticholinergic drugs

These include nighttime pain relievers, antihistamines, sleep aids, antidepressants, incontinence drugs and narcotic pain relievers. They block the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, the one that requires choline.

One study from the British Medical Journal looked at the use of anticholinergic drugs (nighttime pain relievers, antihistamines, sleep aids, antidepressants, incontinence drugs, and narcotic pain relievers) and tested 372 people over 60 years old without dementia.

A total of 9.2% of the subjects continually used anticholinergic drugs during the year before cognitive assessment. Compared with non-users, they had poorer performance on reaction time, attention, delayed non-verbal memory, narrative recall, visuospatial construction, and language tasks. Eighty percent of the continuous users were classified as having mild cognitive impairment. Another study found a significantly higher rate of falls in elderly patients using anticholinergic drugs as well.

A French study looking at 4,128 women and 2,784 men that reported taking anticholinergic drugs showed a greater decline over four years in verbal fluency scores and in global cognitive functioning than women not using anticholinergic drugs.

In men, an association was found with a decline in visual memory and to a lesser extent in executive function. Significant interactions was observed in women between anticholinergic use and age, ApoE, or hormone replacement therapy. A significantly 1.4–2 fold higher risk of cognitive decline was observed for continuous anticholinergic users.

One study bred mice to have dementia and poor memories with low brain acetylcholine concentration. The administration of phosphatidylcholine to mice with dementia improved memory, showing the link to acetylcholine.

Approximately 90 percent of Americans do not get enough choline. Now imagine you are 65 or older, taking a PPI, sleep aid, and a Statin. That spells trouble.

Choline can also be supplemented and I recommend using phosphatidylcholine, not choline bitartrate. For some people, choline supplementation can affect sleep.

2. Proton Pump Inhibitors

Deficiencies in vitamin B1 and B12 specifically can affect memory. How is this related to PPI’s? PPI’s block 99% of stomach acid, which is needed for B12 absorption, calcium, magnesium and numerous other vitamins and minerals. These drugs also increase the risk of disturbing valuable gut flora. So it shouldn’t be a surprise that German researchers looking at participants 75 years of age or older and free of dementia receiving regular PPI medication had a significantly increased risk of incident dementia compared with the patients not receiving PPI medication.

A study published in 2010 found that people with Alzheimer’s have low levels of SAMe in their brains. B12 in the form of methylcobalamin (not cyanocobalamin), helps produce more SAMe along with magnesium.

3. Benzodiazepines (Valium, Xanax, Lexomil, Ativan, Klonopin, Restoril)

Benzodiazepines are in the class of anti-anxiety, insomnia and seizure disorder medications and deplete biotin, folate, vitamin D and vitamin K. These are actually intended to only be used for a short time however some people may use them long term.

In a study from the British Medical Journal, benzodiazepine use is associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease. The stronger association observed for long-term exposures reinforces the suspicion of a possible direct association. According to researchers “unwarranted long-term use of these drugs should be considered as a public health concern.”

As of August 31st, 2016, the FDA sent out a press announcement issuing boxed warnings (the highest strongest warning) to combining prescription opioid analgesics, opioid-containing cough products and benzodiazepines due to the risk of death. According to the FDA Commissioner Robert Califf M.D., “It is nothing short of a public health crisis when you see a substantial increase of avoidable overdose and death related to two widely used drug classes being taken together.”

4. Statin Drugs

Crestor is the second-highest prescribed drug at 21.4 million per month. As men and women age, cholesterol naturally goes up. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Your digestive system requires cholesterol to prevent infection, your hormones requires cholesterol as starting material, and your memory requires cholesterol to function. The reduction of cholesterol and the increase of blood sugar by Statin drugs is most likely the reason the memory is affected, as reported by the FDA.

We know that with diabetes, the cells become resistant to insulin causing the pancreas to increase the amount of insulin released. What people may not know, is that in Alzheimer’s the part of the brain that is responsible for memory and personality also becomes resistant to insulin.

Insulin is made in the brain in a similar way that it is made in the pancreas. In fact, insulin is responsible for helping build neurotransmitters and the tasks involved with learning and memory. Some researchers are now referring to Alzheimer’s disease as “type 3 diabetes.” Diabetics actually have up to a 65% higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

A study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine found a nearly 50 percent increase in diabetes among longtime statin users. A 2011 analysis in the Journal of the American Medical Association and a 2010 analysis in The Lancet also found a higher risk of diabetes among those taking cholesterol-lowering drugs. According to the American Heart Association, adults with diabetes are two to four times more likely to have heart disease or a stroke than adults without diabetes.

So essentially the impression is that cholesterol is a bigger risk factor than diabetes for heart disease, which is wrong. I highly recommend reading the article How to Interpret Your Cardiovascular Blood Work in 5 Easy Steps to learn about cholesterol numbers and more significant risk factors.

5. Lithium Deficiency

While lithium is a natural element and not a prescription drug, I think the research on lithium is worth noting in this section. Patients with mood disorders have been shown to have rates of dementia higher than those of the general population. Researchers found that continued lithium treatment was associated with a reduction of the rate of dementia to the same level as that for the general population and can actually be neuroprotective or even enhance the growth of neurons. Lithium is also a B12 carrier, so a combined deficiency of lithium and B12 would really affect brain health.

According to Dr. Nassir Ghaemi, a professor of psychiatry at Tufts University School of Medicine, “Lithium is, by far, the most proven drug to keep neurons alive, in animals and in humans, consistently and with many replicated studies. If lithium prevents dementia, then we may have overlooked a very simple means of preventing a major public health problem.”

What’s an easy way to get lithium? Add DayLyte liquid minerals to your water to get 1mg of lithium per serving.

Addressing the Nutritional Needs of the Older Generations

Hippocrates once said, “all diseases begin in the gut.” According to the Journal of Clinical Nutrition “elderly persons who malabsorb macronutrients do so because of disease, not because of age.”

The malabsorption of micronutrients like B12 in the elderly is actually due to the high prevalence of atrophic gastritis, related to H. Pylori and low stomach acid. How many older people are on acid blockers for acid reflux! Acid reflux occurs from low stomach acid, not too much. Chronic gut inflammation is also due to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Aspirin, Tylenol, etc.) accounting for the large majority of peptic ulcer disease. Nutrients whose absorption has been shown to be affected by low acid conditions in the stomach include folate, vitamin B-12, calcium, iron, and beta-carotene.

It has been shown that elderly persons (excuse me, older generation) with atrophic gastritis severely malabsorb folate, and can be corrected by administering folate along with hydrochloric acid. B12 supplementation is also superior for absorption over food for those with low stomach acid. B12 deficiency is even more pronounced in those with digestive disorders, gene variants in FUT2, or those taking medications like proton pump inhibitors and Metformin.

Decreased skin synthesis of vitamin D, vitamin D absorption, vitamin D receptors in the intestinal epithelial cell and conversion to the active form of vitamin D have all been observed in the elderly. Vitamin A absorption actually increases, lowering the requirement for vitamin A. This could explain the osteoporosis study I explored here and why high vitamin A intake was correlated to osteoporosis.

The older generation has an increased vitamin B-6 requirement compared with younger people. A study done in 1990 found that in the United States that of 11,658 people, 91% of women and 71% percent of men were deficient in vitamin B-6 using the RDA, and 1 in 10 of the elderly in the US and Europe have been defined as deficient.

CoQ10 is the antioxidant energy molecule of the mitochondria, protects cell membranes and the oxidation of LDL. Production has been found to peak at age 20 and decreases as we age. Low CoQ10 causes low energy and accelerated aging. Statin drugs inhibit CoQ10 production. However, the production of CoQ10 can be encouraged. It can be boosted with exercise and vitamin B1, 2, 3, 4 5, 6, folate, vitamin B12, vitamin C, manganese, and magnesium.

Approximately 2/3’s of Alzheimer’s patients are women. Estrogen levels drop in post-menopausal women, affecting memory and choline production. Only 15% of women get enough choline. Choline plays a major role in memory. If you are female, eat your eggs daily, include many phytoestrogen-rich foods like flax seeds in your diet, and think twice about anticholinergic drugs.

Determining Your Nutritional Needs with Genetic Testing

One of the most beneficial tests for understanding higher needs for vitamins, minerals, and compounds is through Nutrition Genome. Nutrigenomic testing allows you to find your genetic weaknesses and turn them into strengths by understanding which nutrients you need to target the most for optimal health.

I spent years designing this software while in clinical practice, and it has been by far the most useful testing I’ve done on people to help determine the best dietary and supplemental approach.

The Worst Multivitamins for Seniors

1. Centrum Silver

The #1 Doctor recommended multivitamin makes my #1 for the worst multivitamin. Made by the pharmaceutical company Pfizer, it brings in close to 1 billion in sales. Centrum uses synthetic vitamin E (dl-alpha-tocopherol) and potentially synthetic beta-carotene (source not listed).

Synthetic versions of beta-carotene have been shown to increase the risk of cancer in heavy smokers and drinkers, and accelerated the death and shortened the life span of rats exposed to radiation. But the natural form of beta-carotene decreased the death rate and significantly increased the life span of exposed rats.

Synthetic vitamin E has been shown to have little or no anticancer effectiveness, and may even increase prostate cancer. Centrum uses the oxide form of magnesium, which only 4% is absorbed. The poor form of B6 (pyridoxine hydrochloride), folate (folic acid) and B12 (cyanocobalamin) are also used.

Folic acid appears to be potentially problematic as I explained here. The formula is missing K2 (important for heart and bone health) and boron (important for testosterone for men and bone density for women).

Centrum contains hydrogenated palm oil, a trans-fat highly correlated to heart disease, not to mention bushels of corn additives and all the horrible artificial colors including FD#C Blue #2, Yellow #6 and Red #40 found to disrupt mitochondrial function (the power house of a cell that is important for keeping you young).

A study published in the Journal of Food and Chemical Toxicology found that the dyes actually enter the bloodstream through the skin or digestive system, debunking previous expertise that the skin blocked it and the digestive system destroyed it first. This is alarming because these dyes have already been linked to ADHD, allergies, and asthma, but due to the dye’s ability to inhibit cellular respiration, a whole cascade of health effects.

2. Men’s One a Day and Women’s One a Day 50+

In another popular choice, you will find a similar formula. This one contains artificial flavor, potentially synthetic beta-carotene, magnesium oxide, cupric oxide (found to exhibit high toxicity in vitro), synthetic vitamin E, yellow dye #5, FD&C yellow 36 lake, soybean oil and zinc oxide. The poor form of B6 (pyridoxine hydrochloride), folate (folic acid) and B12 (cyanocobalamin) are also used.

The women’s formula contains 500mg of calcium carbonate and only 50mg of magnesium oxide. This is from the erroneous notion that higher calcium automatically means better bone density. Poor bone density in females is not due to low calcium intake only; it is due to estrogen levels that are too low, coupled with low vitamin D, calcium, magnesium, boron, inositol, vitamin C, silicone and K2 deficiencies.

Like B12, vitamin D synthesis goes down as we age. Along with the wrong calcium/magnesium ratio, this formula does not contain boron, inositol or K2.

3. Kirkland Adults 50+ Mature Multi

I always overheard my mom use the phrase, “don’t buy a discount parachute.” This applies to your vitamin choices. Kirkland’s multivitamin for seniors sells for $9.99. at Costco. I’m all for trying to find deals and not overspend, but this has to throw up a red flag. You have to imagine how cheap a product has to be made to retail for $9.99.

Further inspection shows similar shortcuts as Centrum. Magnesium oxide, synthetic vitamin E as dl-alpha tocopheryl acetate, zinc oxide, folic acid, and cyanocobalamin. This formula contains 222mg of calcium to 50mg of magnesium oxide (only 4% absorption rate), which is the wrong ratio. Magnesium should be in a 1:1 to 2:1 ratio, being the same or higher than calcium. Kirkland does make a point to show that they do not use food dyes.

The Best Multivitamins for Seniors

I don’t want to admit how many hours I spent analyzing multivitamins to find a product that would fit at least most of the guidelines, but let’s just say that this was my hardest task. I have added two additional multivitamins based on the need for formulas without beta-carotene or vitamin K.

What you decide to add to this base will depend on where you need to focus. For the older generations, this includes mainly digestive health, cognitive function, bone health, eye health and heart health.  Below I have outlined how to customize your program.Below I have outlined how to customize your program.

Remember to take your multivitamin with food so that you absorb the carotenoids and fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K.

1. Primitive Scientific 2/Day Essentials for Adults and Seniors

Cost: $34.99 for 30 servings

Primitive Scientific has proven to be a company willing to go the extra mile for the highest quality ingredients and intelligently sourced and dosed blends. It has taken the top spot for seniors by casting a wider net with appropriate doses of various vitamins and minerals, and including incredible blends targeting the eyes, muscles, brain and gut. They have also gone above and beyond with testing becoming PhytoVest Certified that goes beyond organic, NSF and Non-GMO testing. 

This formula has been updated in Q1 2023:

  • Removed DHA because Primitive Scientific now offers a standalone fish roe oil.
  • Removed a few ingredients and adjusted some minor quantities related to supply chain constraints
  • Calcium now from natural bone matrix
  • Removed proprietary blends to list each ingredient with amount

Highlights:

– Contains the correct forms of all vitamins and minerals
– Vitamin E as d-alpha tocopherol plus mixed tocopherols and mixed tocotrienols
– Comprehensive eye and heart support that contains wild alaskan blueberry, CoQ10, lutein, astaxanthin, zeaxanthin
– Unique brain and gut support that contains a high quality form of choline, uridine and lithium (read more about how this combo can heal the brain and gut)
– Unique muscle and cell support that includes tri-creatine malate, alpha-lipoic acid, and PQQ
– methylated folate
– Choline from the superior AlphaGPC and not inferior forms like bitartrate
– B12 in from MecobalActive (Spain) methylcobalamin
– 100 mcg K2 from B. Lichenformis MK-7 form and MK-4 form
– 250 mcg of Lithium for neuroprotection, mood and brain health
– Does not contain iron
– Non-GMO, gluten-free, preservative-free, vegetarian-friendly and proudly made in the USA in a cGMP and NSF certified facility

2. Basic Nutrients 2/Day by Thorne Research

Cost: $27.99 for 60 capsules

The Basic Nutrients 2/Day provides the best bang for your buck if you are taking medications, helping offset nutrient depletions with only 2 capsules per day.

Highlights

– Contains the right form of B12, B6, and folate for everyone including MTHFR variants
– Contains 15mg of highly absorbable zinc bisglycinate chelate
– Contains the right doses of manganese, copper and boron
– Uses the correct dosage of vitamin E in the mixed tocopherol form, not dl-alpha tocopherol or isolated alpha-tocopherol
– Uses natural mixed carotenes (including beta-carotene) from the marigold flower
– Uses K2 instead of just K1
– Contains selenium as selenomethionine, not selenate and selenite
– Contains iodine
– Contains a higher dose of vitamin C (250mg) from L-ascorbate
– Contains 2,000IU of vitamin D instead of 800IU or less
– A small amount of copper (750mcg)
– It requires 2 capsules instead of the 6-8 capsules often required of higher quality multivitamins
– It is affordable. A higher cost doesn’t always mean higher quality, and I try to seek these out for people.
– It does not contain any harmful fillers or food dyes. I have also found some clients to be sensitive to citrate forms, and this formula does not contain any.
– They are conducting double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials.
– Certified by GMP, TGA from the Government of Australia (Australia’s FDA), as well as by the prestigious NSF International for quality control, purity and manufacturing.

3. Thorne Research Advanced Nutrients

Price: $60.00 for 30 servings

Highlights

– Higher dosage of vitamins and minerals in the right forms for those who need it
– Contains vitamin K2 as MK-7
– 250mg of magnesium malate and 250mg of calcium malate
– 850mg of vitamin C
– 225mcg of iodine
– 3mg of boron, which is excellent for bone and hormone health
– 80mg of bilberry for eye health
– Lutein, zeaxanthin, astaxanthin, and lycopene
– Nicotinamide Riboside (Niagin), which is found in small amounts of milk, beer, and yeast. It has been found in research to support healthy aging, neurological support, brain/cognitive support, metabolic/weight support, and liver support and muscle support.

Improvements 

– B12 and biotin are excessively high, even for this formula
– 200mcg of selenium may be too high for some people

4. O.N.E Multivitamin

Cost: $33.00 for 60 capsules

If you need to avoid vitamin K due to blood thinners, this is a good choice.

Highlights

– Does not contain vitamin K for those on blood thinners
– Beta carotene is from D. Salina
– Contains lutein, lycopene, and zeaxanthin for eye support
– Contains a higher amount of zinc for eye support (25mg)
– Contains CoQ10 for mitochondrial support
– Contains alpha lipoic acid for cell membrane support
– Contains small amounts of choline and inositol
– Methylated forms of B12 and folate
– Does not contain copper
– Contains 2,000IU vitamin D

Notes: If you have low copper levels, this may not be a good fit due to the higher levels of zinc and omission of copper.

5. MegaFood Multi for Men 55+ (No Vitamin K) and MegaFood Multi for Women 55+ (No Vitamin K)

Cost: $24.91 for 60 capsules (2 a day)

As of June 2016, MegaFood has created a new formula to include methylfolate, methylcobalamin, and active B6 P-5-P. This formula is a blend of organic whole foods, USP vitamin and mineral-fed yeast and synthesized nutrients. I have chosen to add this as a lower potency multivitamin alternative that represents a blend of all the current processing technology. Be aware that yeast-bound vitamins and minerals still remain untested for absorption and people with yeast sensitivities may not do well with this formula.

Highlights

– Contains 200mg of choline
– Uses methylfolate, methylcobalamin and B6 in the active form P-5-P
– Does not contain vitamin A and only uses beta-carotene from carrots which could be beneficial for certain older populations with bone density issues
– Contains 1,000IU of vitamin D3
– Contains 15mg of zinc
– Small amount of copper (200mcg)
– Does not contain vitamin K, important for those on blood thinners
– MegaFoods is GMP registered with NSF, soy free, dairy free, gluten free, pesticide and herbicide free and GMO-free.

For those with low stomach acid or gastritis and may have trouble absorbing B12, you may require sublingual B12 from Seeking Health in addition to this supplement due to the low B12 content.

The folate level is also 200mcg, which made need to be higher based on your MTHFR enzyme function.

If you are a female concerned about bone health, make sure to be getting sufficient boron, K2, calcium and magnesium outside of this formula.

6. Integrative Therapeutics ProThrivers without Beta Carotene Two a Day

Cost: $45.00 for 60 capsules

If you have been instructed to avoid beta carotene, alpha-tocopherol, copper or boron by your doctor, this is the only formula I know of that also uses methylated B-vitamins. You should be aware that this formula does not contain any calcium or magnesium, you may require more folate, iodine, and zinc and the B6 dose is larger than normal.

Highlights

– Does not contain beta-carotene, alpha-tocopherol, copper or boron
– Methylated folate, B12 and the right form of B6
– 500mg of vitamin C
– 100mcg of vitamin K2
– 1,000IU of vitamin D
– 25 mg of tocotrienols
– 7mg of zinc
– Does not contain copper
– Betaine HCL (good for those with low stomach acid)

Relevant Research for these Formulas

In a randomized controlled study on elderly subjects with increased dementia risk, researchers showed that high-dose B-vitamin treatment (folate 0.8 mg, vitamin B6 20 mg, vitamin B12 0.5 mg) slowed shrinkage of the whole brain volume over 2 years. B- vitamins lower homocysteine, which directly leads to a decrease in gray matter atrophy, thereby slowing cognitive decline.

Macular degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss in the United States and Europe in people over fifty-five years old. The Rotterdam Study performed in the Netherlands suggests that atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) may be involved in the etiology of age-related macular degeneration. One study followed 3,600 people ages 55-80 years old for six years and found that those that took antioxidants plus zinc were less likely than those who took only antioxidants or only zinc to lose their vision. Lutein and zeaxanthin are crucial to eye health.

As we age, melatonin production decreases rapidly, getting to its low point around 70. In the United States, only about one-third of the population (37%) reported getting 8 hours of sleep per night, and 31% reported 6 hours or less. Sleep deprivation increases the risk of hypertension, coronary heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. Melatonin is produced by the pineal gland as it gets dark and makes you sleepy. The following can lead to low melatonin levels: SAD, Bi-Polar, breast cancer, prostate cancer, Alzheimer’s, Dementia, low blood flow, Caffeine, alcohol, chronic stress, nicotine, beta-blockers, certain anti-depressants, sleeping pills, and tranquilizers deplete melatonin.

To optimize melatonin production nutritionally, you need to look at the dopamine/adrenaline pathway (vitamin C and magnesium), the serotonin and melatonin pathway (B2, folate, B6 and B12), and glutamate/GABA pathway (probiotics, vitamin C, zinc, B6, magnesium, choline) to see where biochemical issues may need to be addressed. Then you have to look at stress, lifestyle, environment, medications, brain injuries, and diet.

Additional Supplementation

1. Real Mushrooms RealClarity

This is a new product that combines Lion’s Mane mushroom with ashwagandha, rhodiola and bacopa extracts.

Compounds in Lion’s Mane are able to stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), which promotes the repair and regeneration of neurons. There is growing clinical evidence that Lion’s Mane in beneficial in mild forms of dementia. See more research under NeuroEffect. The dosage of Lion’s Mane in the following studies is 2-3g per day. Additional Lion’s Mane can be taken with the Real Mushrooms Lion’s Mane.

Ashwagandha is also known as Indian Ginseng. Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by progressive dysfunction of memory and higher cognitive functions with abnormal accumulation of extracellular amyloid plaques and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles throughout cortical and limbic brain regions. Researchers have demonstrated that when ashwagandha was added to beta-amyloid treated samples, the toxic effects were neutralized and ashwagandha root extract was neuroprotective against beta-amyloid induced neuropathogenesis.

The buildup of amyloid plaque appears to do special damage to the default network of the brain. The default network is the place your brain clicks over to in the resting state known for creativity. The complexity of the default network is also responsible for self-awareness, memory, future planning, empathy and moral judgment.

Canadian researchers using big data revealed that a decline in the brain’s blood flow is the earliest symptom of Alzheimer’s. It would appear then that increasing oxygen and blood flow would help prevent this decline and protect the default network. Ashwagandha has been found to increase oxygen capacity and protect against amyloid plaque. Combining ashwagandha with deep breathing exercises (meditation, yoga, tai chi, Qi Gong) and regular exercise would be a prudent approach to help increase oxygen transport to the brain.

Rhodiola rosea is used to stimulate the nervous system, extenuate anxiety, enhance work performance, relieve fatigue, and prevent high altitude sickness. In thirty six animal studies, Rhodiola rosea has been proven to improve learning and memory function.

Bacopa has been shown in many clinical studies to improve verbal learning, delayed word recall, memory acquisition, and anxiety reduction. The triterpenoid saponins are believed to be responsible for most of the herb’s pharmacological actions.

2. NeuroEffect by PaleoValley (15% off with this link)

This supplement contains 2,100mg total of Lion’s mane, cordyceps, reishi, chaga, turkey tail, shiitake, maitake, tremella, and coffee fruit berry. It has been tested to contain over 26% beta-glucans. The coffee fruit is added to add increased focus without the caffeine by increasing BDNF. While this product is marketed for enhanced cognition, it contains many strong anti-cancer compounds as well.

For those concerned about memory, the dosage of Lion’s Mane in the following studies is 2-3g per day. Additional Lion’s Mane can be taken alongside NeuroEffect. I recommend Real Mushrooms Lion’s Mane.

Compounds in Lion’s Mane are able to stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), which promotes the repair and regeneration of neurons. There is growing clinical evidence that Lion’s Mane in beneficial in mild forms of dementia. In a double-blind placebo-controlled trial, 50-80-year old Japanese men and women with mild cognitive impairment given 3g/day showed significant increases on a cognitive function scale compared with a placebo group over a 16 week period.

One study took 7 patients with different types of dementia were given 5g a day of Lion’s Mane in soup. Six months all seven demonstrated improvement in their Functional Independence Measure score (eating, dressing, walking etc.), while six out of seven demonstrated improvements in their perceptual capacities (understanding, communication, memory, etc). A different study found that neuronal excitability from glutamic acid (one of the causes of Alzheimer’s and dementia) appears to be attenuated in the presence of Lion’s Mane.

Anxiety and depression was reduced in a human study with a dosage of 2 grams per day after 4 weeks, with a significant difference between groups on the measurements of concentration and irritability.

The other fascinating characteristic of Lion’s Mane is the gastro-protective effect on the digestive system. This is a major secondary benefit since gastritis is one of the main reasons the older generations start to decline in health.

Lion’s Mane has been found to promote ulcer protection and significant protection activity against gastric mucosal injury by preventing the depletion of antioxidant enzymes. Treatment with a hot water extract of Lion’s Mane decreased lipid peroxidation and increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities, quenching free radicals in the gastric tissue of the ethanol-induced rats to exhibit gastroprotective activity.

3. Lifeforce Magnesium 

This is a new product on the market that uses Magnesium L-threonate, bisglycinate, acetyltaurinate, and malate. Typically, supplements only contain one type of magnesium. This makes it one of the most comprehensive single magnesium products on the market for memory, cardiovascular health and muscle health.

Magnesium required for the removal of DNA damage generated by environmental toxins, endogenous processes, and DNA replication. Deficiency increases the susceptibility to oxidative stress, cardiovascular heart diseases as well as accelerated aging. Approximately 40-60% of sudden deaths from heart attacks occur in the complete absence of any prior artery blockage, clot formation or heart rhythm abnormalities. They are most likely occurring from spasms in the arteries with magnesium being a natural antispasmodic.

The US government study often cited shows 68% of Americans are deficient in magnesium based on dietary intake (which is high to begin with) is incredibly inaccurate based on the percentage of those with the numerous habits that deplete magnesium like medications, excess coffee, sugar, flour-based food, and excess alcohol. Magnesium deficiency induces heart arrhythmias, impairs glucose homeostasis, and alters cholesterol and oxidative metabolism in post-menopausal women. One study found that centenarians (those living over 100) have higher total body magnesium and lower calcium levels than most elderly people.

Researchers from MIT formulated this type of magnesium to concentrate more in the brain, increasing neurotransmitter sites, synapse density and brain cell signaling. Magnesium L-Threonate has been shown in rat studies to enhance learning abilities, working memory, and short and long-term memory by 15% for short-term memory and 54% for long-term memory compared to magnesium citrate. It improved in both young and old, with the older rats getting the most benefit.

Magnesium has been found to have a positive impact on both neural plasticity and synaptic density, and this formula has the potential for those with Alzheimers, dementia or those simply wanting to improve memory.

Magnesium Citrate is the best form for constipation. Malate is the best form for muscle pain or cramps.  If acid reflux is an issue, you need to build bone health or digestion is suboptimal, use the calcium/magnesium product. Read more about magnesium in my article here.

4. Jarro-Dophilus + FOS

Studies in older adults demonstrate that gut microbiota correlates with diet, location of residence and level of inflammation. The decline of Bifidobacteria with age may contribute to aging-associated disease.

The FUT2 gene controls prebiotic production, B12 absorption and how much bifidobacteria you carry in your digestive tract. Bifidus also produces intestinal folate. Certain variants in FUT2 as found through Nutrition Genome can help determine your ability to absorb B12 and bifidobacteria colonization. The gut/brain axis is an extremely important concept for mental health, and diversified gut flora is going to help produce GABA, lowering the destructive effects of excess glutamate on the brain seen here and assisting sleep.

Constipation is one of the most frequent gastrointestinal disorders encountered in clinical practice in Western societies. Its prevalence increases with age and is more frequently reported in female patients. What many people don’t realize, is that it is often from a deficiency in magnesium, vitamin C, fiber and probiotics.

5. Primitive Scientific Nordic Pure Fish Roe Oil Complex

After doing extensive research on the APOE gene, one revelation is that people who have the e4 allele do not benefit from regular fish oil like those without the e4 allele. They require a phospholipid carrier (found naturally in fish but not fish oil) for successful delivery into the brain. This isn’t to say that only people with the e4 allele will benefit, everyone will. But people with the e4 should especially seek this type of fish oil supplement.

This fish oil supplement combines fish roe and fish oil supplement, providing a superior delivery system more in tune with how omega-3’s are packaged in fish and absorbed by the body. I’ve always had issues with the fishy aftertaste and burps, and this is the first fish oil supplement that hasn’t caused that. The addition of vanilla to the capsule was a great idea as well, making it very easy for anyone to take. This is my new staple fish oil product.

Alzheimer’s disease and dementia have been called “type 3 diabetes” due to the role of high blood sugar and brain deterioration. However, there are other factors including hormone function and nutrient deficiencies in the glutamate/GABA pathway.

In many ways, DHA is a miracle nutrient for the human body. DHA protects the brain from elevated blood sugar and lowers the risk of diabetes, lowers triglycerides, helps prevents cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease, reduces sudden death from heart attack by 50% with 200mg, prevents cardiac arrhythmias and lowers depression, lowers blood pressure, prevents tumor formation and arthritis.

Eating fish one to three times a week has been associated with a 40 to 75 percent reduction in macular degeneration. A study concluded that elder people with poor diets, especially with low antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, are more prone to developing macular degeneration and benefit from supplementation. “Micronutrient supplementation enhances antioxidant defense and healthy eyes and might prevent/retard/modify macular degeneration” with the use of omega-3 fatty acids, lutein/zeaxanthin, vitamins C, E, and zinc/copper.

 

Further Reading

To read more about bone health, see Best Calcium, Magnesium, Vitamin D and K2 Supplements.

For understanding more about mental health including anxiety and depression, read the article Mental Health Starts in the Gut, Not the Brain.

For heart health, check out How to Read Your Cardiovascular Blood Work in 5 Steps. This will also tell you how to adjust your diet and supplement program based on your results.

Have kids or grandchildren? The Best Children’s Multivitamins

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360 Comments

  1. Sandra

    Hello, what do u think of perque life guard? That is the one I am currently taking. I was thinking of trying pure encapsulation nutrients 950 with vitamin k. Thank you!

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Sandra,

      Perque Life Guard is very high quality. The only reason I didn’t add it is because the dosages are pretty high, magnesium aspartate isn’t an ideal form, and it is expensive. However if you keep it at the 1-2 tablet dose, it is a reasonable price. Some people may not do well with the very high B6 dosage and it is missing K2. I also reviewed Pure Encapsulations Nutrients 950 with vitamin K and didn’t add it because it requires 6 capsules, contains only 1,000IU of vitamin D and is missing the mixed tocopherols for vitamin E. It does contain 200mg of calcium and magnesium, which is good but still not enough to meet those requirements.

      Reply
      • Sandra

        Thank you so much!

        Reply
  2. Ewa

    Hello, Many thanks for the article, superuseful, especially that I was researching how to support my parents health! Although they are very against supplementation (unfortunately) so I will need to force them to take at least the bare minimum! I noticed that Basic Nutrients II by Thorne Research seems to be discontinued (at least on iherb, couldnt find it anywhere else), unless I got it wrong somehow?. If it’s indeed not available anymore I would get:

    1. Life Extension, Two-Per-Day Tablets,

    2. Life Extension, Super K With Advanced K2 Complex

    3. Life Extension, Neuro-Mag, Magnesium L-Threonate – although I’m not sure about this one. 3 capsules provide on 36% of daily value. Also my parents start to have issues with memory, but also can’t sleep well and often constipated, often stressed with no reason. Which of the magnesium forms would be the optimal one for all of those issues?

    OR

    Thorne Research, Calcium-Magnesium Citramate, – I noticed Life Extension, Two-Per-Day formula doesnt really have Calcium so I thought maybe two tablets of this combo would do the trick? Still a bit low of both nutrients though but maybe as a support it would do (my parents dont take any supplements now)

    I would be very grateful for your advice!
    Many thanks!

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Ewa,

      This article had people like you in mind looking after their parents. I’ve been able to help my dad dramatically with supplementation and diet and almost used him as a case study in this article, but didn’t want to make the article too long.

      I can’t speak for iHerb, but the link I have on the article is to Amazon where you can purchase it. We also carry this in one of my nutrition practices, so I know it isn’t discontinued.

      In terms of memory, it is best to figure out why their memory is affected as I have outlined. Often B12 will make a big difference, especially because they don’t supplement at all.

      Constipation can be remedied with magnesium citrate, probiotics and dietary fiber. Magnesium citrate will make them a believer in supplementation since they will see a direct result. Stress, poor sleep and appearing stressed does show a potential magnesium issue.

      Let me know if you have any other questions.

      Reply
      • Ewa

        Great, thank you so much! I will give it a try.

        Reply
      • Jan Tommila

        My hubby & I are a War Baby & a Boomer respectively. Since reaching Medicare age the docs are always pushing drugs on us. I react poorly to to many pharmaceuticals. What I’ve discovered recently is that much of what ails older folks is dehydration. After purchasing a water purifier & significantly increasing my water intake, I had no more trouble with constipation.

        Thank you for your article.

        Reply
        • Alex Swanson M.S.

          Hi Jan,

          You are absolutely right! The thirst mechanism changes as we age, making it that much more important to be cognizant of drinking enough water. You especially want to make sure you are getting enough electrolytes with your water.

          Reply
    • mary mundy

      All right I’ve been told to take magnesium. I am 67 years old. However it always gives me diarrhea. Someone said there is a type of magnesium that does not affect you this way but did not know the name of the supplement. Could you be of any help. I would love to get them.
      I also noticed that this article is written in a while ago. I am writing you in February 2020.I have recently read that fermented vitamin supplements are very absorbable. I think they’re pretty new on the market. What do you think those? Are they better? Thanks!

      Reply
      • Alex Swanson M.S.

        Hi Mary,

        This can occur from magnesium oxide or citrate. The best forms are going to be Magnesium Glycinate or Magnesium Malate.

        I updated this article for 2020, but I see I need to update the actual date it was updated.

        In regards to fermented vitamin supplements, it really depends on the product. Some products give yeast synthetic vitamins in a broth, which I don’t recommend because there is no evidence that it is superior. If you have any particular products you would like me to review, I would be happy to do it.

        Reply
        • Jan

          Hi Alex! I need your help. I recently had a blood test and found that I am very low in Vitamins B-12 and D. My MCHC was very low as well. In reading up on MCHC, it indicated that your blood may be low in Vitamin B-12 as well as Iron. I have had Colon Cancer in which I had 12 inches of my Colon removed. I am also pre diabetic with an A1C of 6.2. My cholesterol is 252. I am 71 years old.
          I know I need to change to a diabetic and lowering cholesterol diet and get exercise. I know I need to take Iron, B-12 and D supplements until I can bring these up. In addition to these things I have stated I need to do, do you have any recommendations? Thank you!

          Reply
  3. Sandra

    Hey Alex, I forgot to ask u in my earlier post if u think the manganese is too high in the perque life guard. I was thinking of switching to the perque life guard mini if u do think it is to high. Do u know if the beta carotene in there is natural of synthetic? Thanks

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hey Sandra,

      Wow, yes it is absolutely too high with a 2 capsule dose. The beta carotene is not synthetic and is from d. salina.

      Reply
  4. Rachel

    Hi Alex; My mother is 91 and has always been very strong and healthy with no issues except an episode about 3 years ago of what the doctors called mini strokes because the cat scan and ultra sound found nothing to speak of. She taught Tai Chi, lived alone, chopped wood, drove a car. The first part of this year though brought a very stressful and abrupt move from her home that has just ended and left her *very* exhausted, depressed and grieving though she hides it well, weakness in her legs, a bruised feeling in her hips and constipation for the first time in her life. Her memory and mental faculties have suffered. She eats fairly well, veges, not much protein though, she’s a pescatarian and eats dairy. She will go to a Chinese medicine doctor but not a traditional doctor. I have appreciated this article very much and have ordered several things from it including the Magnesium. I’m wondering what else you think might be good. Bee Pollen? I’ll be buying her stout as well due to your article. Thanks for any help.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Rachel,

      Thinking of your 91 year old mom teaching Tai Chi and chopping wood really made me smile. She sounds like a great woman, and I’m very sorry to hear that her life made such a dramatic shift. I think magnesium sounds like an important addition for stress and digestion. You may want to see if her Chinese doctor is open to her using Lion’s Mane. Mainly it is making sure she has an appetite, is sleeping and prevents constipation. Daily homemade soups are also excellent remedies for stress and digestion. It sounds like a difficult situation and I hope she feels better.

      Reply
  5. Rachel

    Alex, thanks very much for the reply. Ya, Ma is pretty amazing. I did order the Lion’s Mane. She doesn’t have a TCM dr. at the moment as she is in a new area. I have already the 2/day multi’s by Thorne and was glad to see you recommend them. I also got the fish oil, ashwaganda and probiotics. I guess i got everything. I’m thinking Bee Pollen wouldn’t hurt as well since it’s a food, but, let me know if you have reservations. I’m finding the topics you write about so interesting and relevant. Thank you.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Rachel,

      Bee Pollen should be fine. It is best to buy it locally for the best benefits. I appreciate the feedback. Hoping to have some new articles coming up soon.

      Reply
      • Pam

        Hi , I love this site and thank you for all your research. I have recently been diagnosed with pre malignant melons with more diagnostic tests to follow. As this is a bone CA I was wondering what you thought of Thornes Bone Bundle and if you recommend that, do you have a vitamin supplement also? I have anemia and thrombocytopenia at this time as well. Thank you for any advice!

        Reply
  6. Lea

    I would love to know which prenatal(also for lactation) you recommend? Thanks.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Lea,

      Sorry for the delay, your comment got lost in the system and I just discovered it. I wrote an article on the best and worst prenatal vitamins here: http://paleoedge.com/best-and-worst-prenatal-vitamins/

      I will be adding Naturelo’s new product to the list soon.

      Reply
  7. Ewa

    Hi Alex, I may have a new idea for a new article, if you find the topic interesting as well. A person that I know has terminal cancer. He only has a couple of months to live, doctors encouraged him to start chemo to make the process less painfull and prolong his life a little. The problem is that chemotherapy has quite some nasty side effects. I would very much appreciate an article about supplements that could potentially decrease chemo side effects and make those last months more bearable.

    Regards,
    Ewa

    Reply
  8. Ewa

    Hi Alex, I may have an idea for a new article, if you find the topic interesting as well. A person that I know suffers from terminal lung cancer. He only has a couple of months to live, doctors encouraged him to start chemo to make the process less painful and prolong his life a little. The problem is that chemotherapy has quite some nasty side effects. I would very much appreciate an article about supplements that could potentially decrease chemo side effects and make those last months more bearable.

    Thanks,
    Ewa

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Ewa,

      I’m very sorry to hear about your friend. Great idea and I would be happy to do it. I actually have a lot of experience with this from my family nutrition practice, Swanson Health Center. We have helped many clients through chemotherapy with nutritional and supplemental support, and it can make a huge difference.

      Reply
  9. Cathy C

    Unfortunately I have been taking Centrum Silver for a number of years (recommended by my doctor when I turned 50) but fortunately for me I found your website which is so impressive and informative and I will take your recommendation for Thorne Basic Nutrients 2. If I may ask a couple questions. I would like to know if you have any recommendations on Curcumin supplements. I am looking for one that is organic, grown and made in the USA. And I worry about heavy metals. And I also would like to ask you about protein powder. I am currently using whey protein, which is almost finished. And I would like to switch to an organic plant-based protein powder. However, I am having trouble deciding on what kind (pea, hemp, etc.). I am not a weight lifter or very active in sports. I do walk on the treadmill everyday and do yoga. I drink protein smoothies on days when my diet doesn’t contain enough protein. Thanks so much for your time.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Cathy,

      I’m happy to hear that you found the article informative. Curcumin is best absorbed with black pepper and an oil carrier. Gaia Herbs makes a product called Turmeric Supreme Extra Strength that contains black pepper, is grown in North Carolina and is organic.

      Women benefit from more fiber, which makes hemp and chia good candidates, while pea or sprouted rice is typically higher in protein. The tricky thing with plant-based protein powders is taste and if it is easy to digest. One that stands out to me is Plant Based Protein by PureFood that also contains probiotics. A little more expensive, but appears to be what you are looking for. I have an article in the works for the best and worst plant-based protein powders.

      Reply
  10. Cathy C

    Alex, thanks for your suggestions. I will be watching out for your protein powders article.

    Reply
  11. PB

    Have been reading your “How to Make Your Own Multivitamin with Diet” – fantastic information – and while that’s obviously a preference appreciated finding your analysis of available multi-vitamins for “seniors” (Yuk!).
    Have one question – a few years ago found all these convincing articles on vitamin D and started consuming it liberally; only to eventually find that living just 12 degrees below the equator, we can usually manufacture sufficient Vitamin D in a brief walk to the shops – so my question pertains to Thorne Research ‘s Basic Nutrients 2/Day where you noted it “Contains 2,000IU of vitamin D instead of 800IU or less” – do you have any concerns re Vitamin D toxicity for people living near the equator regarding long term daily consumption of Thorne Research ‘s Basic Nutrients 2/Day ?
    From briefly looking up Vitamin D toxicity levels, this seems most likely a silly question, but I’d be interested in your opinion – thanks

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi PB,

      No, I don’t have any concerns about 2,000IU daily of vitamin D for toxicity. I have observed clinically that 2,000IU is the amount that helps maintain vitamin D in the healthy range, while 5,000 or more is often needed to push vitamin D levels out of a deficient range. Once the target range is acquired, vitamin D can go back down to 2,000IU. If you get plenty of sun, you may not need it at all. A deeper understanding is gained through genetic testing. When there are polymorphisms in the VDR receptor for example, then co-factors (calcium, magnesium, zinc, boron, vitamin A) play a more important role in getting vitamin D into the cell. This is why I prefer it with these co-factors vs. isolated vitamin D. I recommend monitoring your vitamin D through blood tests so you can get a better idea of your range (end of winter and summer is best).

      Reply
  12. Anita

    Magnesium supplements are really helpful especially women as they age. I myself take these supplements. Thanks for the insightful article.

    Reply
  13. EMMA

    In everything I read,no one comments on people who are allergic to iodine and fish.Or that people with Sarcoidosis should not take Vitamin D3. Please do not tell me to talk it over with my health care provider. I will either start laughing hysterically and get a severe headache or start screaming and get a severe headache.Either way I will end up with a headache.It is scary to read how important these particular supplements are but can,t take them .Em. Thank You.I love reading your articles. I just get frustrated at times.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Emma,

      If you are sensitive or allergic to iodine, it is important to find out why your body is rejecting a mineral that your body requires. You may be having issues with sodium/iodide symporters. If they are defective, vitamin C has been shown to improve the symporters. Sarcoidosis is similar in that it is the faulty immune system, not vitamin D itself that is the problem. Vitamin D is important for the immune system, and therefore the underlying issues of the immune system need to be addressed first. I hope my answers prevented at least a severe headache.

      Reply
  14. Kathy Bonfante

    Just stumbled on to your website and have spent several hours engrossed in your articles! Glad I found you! I seem to be forever looking for the right supplements to take and often end up doing nothing out of confusion or spending too much money and getting poor if any results. I am working on cleaning up my diet and was looking at the Basic Nutrients 2/day from Thorne Research. One question though, your list mentions “Contains a higher dose of vitamin C (750mg) from L-ascorbate” but when I read the label on Amazon it says “Vitamin C as Ascorbic Acid 250mg” I’m wondering if they perhaps changed the formula and if you would still consider it #1 or would advise more C from another source.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Kathy,

      Glad you are enjoying the research! My apologies, that should say 250mg. Yes, I would still consider it the best multivitamin for the population highlighted in this article. Even if it was 750mg, I would still advise a separate vitamin C source. The research and my own clinical experience point towards 500-1500mg twice a day to be an optimal dosage based on your needs.

      Reply
  15. steve ascar

    I love this website. i ordered the Thorne Research multi-vitamin, through the hyperlink to the amazon web site. The bottle arrived somewhat dirty. I noticed the vendor’s label was covering another label. Now there was indeed an NSF stamp on the top label. But you say above “Certified by GMP, TGA from the Government of Australia (Australia’s FDA)” – there was no such info on the label, and moreover, the multi-vitamins were manufactured in Idaho, “for Thorne Research Inc.” This is disturbing, because its well known that supplements arent really regulated in this country (like they might be in Australia for instance), which seems to indicates that Thorne were cutting corners by manufacturing their products in the US rather than Australia to maximize profits – thoughts? Their Magnesium supplement was also made in Idaho! not sure if i will ever buy Thorne again. I also read that the gov./FDA do not police USP and NSF certifications in this country, so any supplement vendor is free to say their products are “USP” or “NSF” certified, even in the absence of certification

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Steve,

      I could see how this might be confusing. Thorne Research is headquartered in Idaho and manufactures their products in their own facility there. TGA is a certification granted to Thorne Research. It doesn’t, however, mean it is manufactured in Austrailia. Only a handful of companies have been given this certification. As for NSF, you always want to see physical proof of the document. You can see the certifications from their website here: https://www.thorne.com/about/certifications

      I have used Thorne Research in my nutrition practice for years, and have talked with their customer service and medical staff anytime I have had a question about their product. Let me know if this helps resolve your question and if there is anything else I can help answer.

      Reply
      • steve ascar

        thanks a lot. i was indeed confused. i also went to their web site and saw all kinds of certifications

        Reply
  16. Kathy

    Hi again Alex,
    I read your whole article on Magnesium and I am still a little confused by which one to get but am leaning toward the Magnesium Taurate for blood pressure and heart health. I did notice that you don’t mention taking a CoQ10 ubiquinol supplement. Can you give me your feelings on that?

    I wish you practiced in SW Florida!

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Kathy,

      Yes, it can be a little tricky with all the different types of magnesium. It helps to try a few out based on your needs and see how you feel. For example, I actually found the magnesium malate to be more of a sedative at night than glycinate. Magnesium Taurate is a unique product that I think has a lot of potential.

      As for CoQ10 ubiquinol, I have only recommended it when people are on statin drugs, during chemotherapy or with mitochondrial dysfunction and high oxidative stress. I have always used Thorne Research Q-Best because they had testing to show superior absorption.

      Haha, well thank you. I’m happy to answer any questions you have.

      Reply
  17. dorothy berni

    im 75 what vit is best.not a good appetite. what can i take alot of nausea in pit of stomach which stops me from eating.i lost 5 lbs in 2 weeks because of my stomach.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Dorothy,

      I would ask your doctor about some of the side effects of your medications causing digestive issues and consider using probiotics and digestive enzymes. Xanax boosts GABA to lower glutamate, which is how it helps sleep. Probiotics also boost GABA naturally while improving digestion. Crestor has a side effect of constipation. When Plavix is combined with aspirin it can cause gastritis and stomach ulcers. Acid reflux is often from poor bacterial flora and low stomach acid, not high stomach acid. Cutting off your stomach acid affects digestion and nutrient absorption.

      Reply
  18. Arkadi Choufrine

    Hi, Alex–
    Thanks for this awesome review! Can you possibly comment on Rainbow Light multivitamins for seniors?
    Also, I am taking Co-Q10 (Jarrow Formulas). It seems to work well but I’m not sure how to determine a proper daily amount.
    Thanks in advance for any suggestions.
    ~Arkadi

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Arkadi,

      The Rainbow Light Multivitamin for Seniors uses cyanocobalamin (poor form of B12) and folic acid (poor form of synthetic folate). B12 is best as methylcobalamin, or as a combination of methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin. Folate is best as methylfolate, the form found in food. This product also uses magnesium oxide, of which only 4% is absorbed.

      For CoQ10, the dosage does range based on current health issues or the use of statin drugs. This isn’t something I could determine without a thorough analysis.

      Reply
  19. Arkadi Choufrine

    p.s. Also, I would be grateful if you could comment on the Garden of Life multivitamins.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Sure. I will give you my reply from previous comments in the other Best Multivitamin article.

      Vitamin Code: Vitamin Code starts with USP vitamins – of which some are synthetically made – and given to yeast in a nutrient rich broth. The finished metabolized product qualifying as a “whole food vitamin” is debatable and there isn’t any research I am aware of that proves this to be advantageous for absorption.

      MyKind: The Garden of Life myKind Organics is one of the only true 100% whole food multivitamins. There are pros and cons to this one. The pro is that you are getting everything directly from organic plants. The con is that certain minerals in this form are harder to absorb (zinc and iron for example), and zinc in this product is also low. Another issue I have is the stability of the water-soluble B-vitamins, carotenoids, and vitamin C directly from plants. These are known to degrade post-harvest in fruits and vegetables, and it would be helpful if the company tested their products months after production for customers to know how much the amounts are changing. They did add methylcobalamin from yeast, so the B12 should be stable. In the Organic Food Blend, there are also too many foods high in sulfur and histamine that may cause digestive issues in some.

      Reply
  20. Arkadi Choufrine

    This is very helpful, Alex. Thank you! If I may ask one more–it is about “Garden of Life Vitamin Code Raw Vitamin B – Vegan Whole Food Supplement.” Of course it is not a multivitamin yet some people take it rather than any multivitamin. Could you say something of pros and cons to this strategy?
    ~Arkadi

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Arkadi,

      Good question. Typically multivitamins contain the same B-vitamin profile as a B-complex. Some people like to separate supplements based on dosing. For example, if you wanted a higher dose of magnesium and vitamin C than provided in a multivitamin, it may make more sense to take a B-complex with magnesium and vitamin C. It depends on your needs and budget.

      Reply
  21. Ajeet

    Hi Alex,

    For Thorne Research Basic Nutrients 2 per day, selenium and chromium are quite high as compared to the RDA. Came across some articles stating that too much of these 2 could have serious side effects. Do you think it could be a cause of concern?

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Ajeet,

      Yes, the amounts of selenium and chromium are higher in the Thorne product. These are amounts that have been used in studies and have not been found to cause toxicity, however, I do think you can take 1 capsule instead of 2 if you are healthy and are taking it for preventative purposes.

      Reply
      • Ajeet

        Thanks Alex , will follow that.

        Reply
    • Elaine Prickett

      I am a 61 year old woman with celiac disease . I was low on D3, magnesium, k, calcium and some of the B’s. I just had major spine surgery, (a 7 hour procedure) from scoliosis due to these deficiencies. My bone health improved by taking Tymlos injections for a year on a daily basis, then had to switch to Forteo injections every day. It will be 2 years in March and then I can stop the injections. I still have osteopenia, and the surgery saved me from being in a wheelchair. I walk for excercise. I’m under weight , but muscular. My surgeon said I need more fat. Anyway, I feel weak still. Lots of pain. I take muscle relaxants, clonazepam for absence seizures, and Cymbalta for fibromyalgia. I take Thorne Meriva, Thorne magnesium citramate, Thorne D3, and Nordic extra strength fish oil. I don’t take opioids for pain, but my dr gave me a script for them and I opted out. I feel weak. My appetite is not good. Can you suggest something for the celiac disease .? I think it’s the basis of the vitamin deficiency although I have followed a strict gluten free diet since I was diagnosed 10 years ago. That was when I lost a lot of weight unintentionally, as I’ve always been on the skinny side. But the scoliosis and osteoarthritis had done their damage, thus the surgery. My belly causes me a lot of problems such as constipation, bloating and poor appetite . I’ve drank Boost till I’m sick of it. I was always active up until this spine surgery, which was my third.
      Yes, I know my prescriptions have a lot to do with how I feel, but I don’t have much choice in that. I do believe there are quality nutrients out there to help me, I just don’t know which ones. I need help. Thank you

      Reply
      • Alex Swanson M.S.

        Hi Elaine,

        You have been through quite a lot! I am so sorry you hear you have suffered. It has been my experience with these types of cases, broth (look for chicken bone broth types in the freezer sections or Kettle and Fire makes a good boxed one), soups (rice noodles help add calories), smoothies with collagen protein, Gerolsteiner mineral water (high in calcium and magnesium, but check your medications to due bicarbonates) and freshly made green juice (low sugar to prevent bloat) are all superior for nutrient absorption.

        In regards to general supplementation, I would ask your doctor about using liquid minerals like ReMyte, a sublingual for B12 like Seeking Health’s Hyrox-Adeno B12, and liquid vitamin D under the tongue vs. a capsule are going to be superior for your absorption challenges. You may also want to ask your doctor about CBD oil for the pain as an alternative.

        Reply
  22. Julie Gilbert

    Hi Alex,
    Just recently discovered your website, really informative–thank you! I was looking at your “best of list” for seniors and was hoping you could evaluate this product:

    “Life Extension, Two-Per-Day Tablets, 60 Tablets”.

    From what I can tell it does contain the requisite and desired forms of most vitamins (except no vit-K) but I was concerned about the amount of B-6 in this formula at 75 mg per two tablets. I have neuropathy(not due to diabetes) and was not wanting to exacerbate this condition with excessive B-6. (Obviously I could just take one tab…but concerned at even 37mg per day)
    Anyway, this formula is also available in capsules and also as a one a day formula in addition to the two a day. Either which way it is very inexpensive. Less than 8.00 for a one month supply! Thanks for your input.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Julie,

      I agree with you that the B6 dosage is unnecessarily high, even with one capsule. This is especially true since you have neuropathy.

      Reply
  23. Larry McSpadden

    Hi Alex,
    Thanks so much for your hard work, and for sharing your knowledge on nutrition! My wife and I are 68 and looking for a multivitamin/mineral supplement that we can take. The problem is that I have food allergies that produce hives. I am allergic to fish, berries, tree nuts, and Tumeric. I know… all the stuff that is good for us! Could you please give us some advice?

    Many Thanks!
    Larry

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Larry,

      I appreciate your comment! Yes, that is an unfortunate group of foods for allergies. I would need a lot more information on you and your wife to make a more educated recommendation, but if you are looking for a non-allergenic multivitamin/mineral, the Thorne Basic Nutrients 2 a Day may be the best fit.

      Reply
  24. Larry

    Thanks Alex,

    I didn’t know that the Thorne Basic Nutrients 2 a Day were non-allergenic. So that helps a bunch! I had been having trouble finding multivitamins with D3 that wouldn’t make me break out and that includes a lot of calcium supplements with D3 too. I was really eating a lot of those foods when I became allergic to them.
    I don’t understand how that happened. But if you ever learn how a person can get over those food allergies, PLEASE let me know!
    Thank you so much!

    Larry

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Larry,

      If you have broken out with D3, you will likely break out with the D3 in Thorne. I wasn’t aware that was also an allergy.

      Sometimes you can begin to develop allergies to foods with leaky gut syndrome, especially if you eat a lot of foods that irritate your gut lining. For example, my dad started getting a rash on his forehead each time he ate wheat or eggs. Due to his degenerated gut function, the protein molecules would slip through undigested in the blood stream and cause a reaction. It took about a year to heal his gut before he could tolerate those foods again.

      Reply
      • namita aggarwal

        Hi, Would you be able to share how you healed the leaky gut? Have read much on this but would love to know from your experience. Most people I know have gut issues including my 83 year old mother….

        Reply
        • Alex Swanson M.S.

          Hi Namita,

          Yes, the main thing was determining the main sources of inflammation. For my dad, it was wheat, chicken eggs, and sugar. It was easy to figure out because he would get a rash on his forehead each time he ate them. I also suspect that the round of antibiotics he was on before all of this started was also a major problem. So removing the offenders, daily probiotics, enzymes, and lots of homemade soups help expedite the recovery process. Eventually, he was able to tolerate duck eggs, sourdough bread (but not any other wheat) and he still avoids sugar. He also developed dizziness during that time, that I figured out was from not absorbing B12 from his food. A B-complex supplement took it away in a day. Now, his digestive system is in great shape.

          Reply
  25. Christine Blanco

    Alex would you please look into Emerald labs multivitamins by ultralaboratories.com?
    I take the two a day but they also have one a day and 4 per day in different formulations.
    These appear to be whole foods based and free of additives and appropriate types of B’s etc.
    I would appreciate your opinion.
    Thanks.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Christine,

      I think the formula is a little lopsided with it’s emphasis on high amounts of B2, B6, B12 and chromium, while being too low in selenium, iodine and vitamin C in the one daily. Iodine and selenium shouldn’t be so low for women due to their importance for thyroid and breast health. I would ignore the 25mg whole food blend, which is tiny. It is also missing K2.

      For the two a day, it is better formulated and contains vitamin E in the tocopherol and tocotrienol form. Folate is 400mcg vs 200mcg in the one a day, which is good for many. My only criticism would be that it is missing K2 and the low iodine content, so you want to emphasize K2 and iodine more in your diet.

      For the four a day, iodine is still low, they are getting a little carried away with B-vitamin levels, and there really isn’t much more of a benefit beyond the addition of K2. If four capsules are used, calcium and magnesium levels should be higher like the Naturelo product closer to a 1:1 ratio.

      Reply
  26. Roberta B

    What do you think of a baby boomer (age 73) taking Gundry Vital Reds? I am a recent survivor of breast cancer and am thinking about ordering these vital reds to my daily regime. I do not take any other supplements or vitamins.

    Reply
  27. Jeff Holshevnikoff

    My doctor has me taking Vitamin D3 supplements due to low levels of V-D in my blood tests. I am 55 and play a lot of golf so am in the sun quite a bit (live in Dallas). I am very active and healthy. I am taking 5000IU of Vita Optimum and have tried other brands, but can’t seem to get my levels up enough to where the doctor would like to see them. I don’t know if it is the type I am taking or what. Any ideas/recommendations? Also, for your 55+ “senior” Multivitamin suggestions, would a very healthy and active 55 year old such as myself go for that, or go with the below 55 y.o. ones? Thanks so much for your help.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Jeff,

      Are you in the 35-50ng/ml range? If you are below 25ng/ml, that is deficient. But if you are trying to get above 50, there is little evidence showing more benefit at that level. If it is an absorption issue, you may have genetic variants in the vitamin D receptor (VDR) that increase the need for the co-factors (calcium, magnesium, zinc, vitamin A and boron) for absorption. Take your vitamin D with these nutrients (like a multivitamin) and see if that helps if you are indeed deficient. You would probably be fine with the below 55 y.o. multi.

      Reply
  28. Jeff Holshevnikoff

    Thanks Alex. I am right in the middle of the range so I guess I am not deficient. Much appreciated.

    Reply
  29. Stuart Fraser

    Hello,I am new to your site and read with interest some of the comments concerning vitamins,I have tried many over the years I always look for the ones
    that don’t contain excipients usually opt for Terra Nova because according to the manufacturer they don’t contain any fillers or binders,but a new one ,at
    least new to me has caught my eye it’s called Naturelo Multis it’s manufactured in America I just wondered if you had any information regarding this
    product,thanking you.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Stuart,

      The Naturelo multivitamin is an excellent product. I have it listed on my other multivitamin article as the top choice. You can read about it here.

      Reply
  30. Elizabeth Dunlop

    I live in the UK . Is there a UK distributor?
    Is there a tablet with extra Vitamin D included?
    I miss the sun in Mexico where I lived for 21 years!
    I need probiotics as well .

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Elizabeth,

      I know that Naturelo ships to the UK. That product can be found on this article.

      I bet! The highest the vitamin D is going to go in a multivitamin is 2,000IU. If you have certain brands of probiotics that you want me to take a look at in the UK, just let me know.

      Reply
    • Manmeet

      Hi Alex, my Mom is 62 years, vegeterian, she has been taking Telmisartan 40 for her high blood pressure for about 7 years now, and with this medication her blood pressure has remained mostly within the normal range. However, as of last 2 weeks, her bp has been higher 140-160/80-90 range, the doctor changed her medication and gave a combination of Telmisartan 40 and amlodipine 5 mg, but its still not in the normal range. We are not able to figure possible cause,she does have high stress levels though, does some breathing exercises too throughout the day, she has been eating a clean diet for last 3 weeks, reduced her milk tea from 4 5 cups a day to 2, going gluten free, she did have an episode of shingles about 6 weeks back, recovered in about 10 days. She is also on 75 mg thyroxine medication from about 2 years, blood work done a month back indicated the Tpo levels 1300, possibly Hashimoto s.Would you advise any supplements that could help to stabilise the bp as high bp really makes her energy levels dip drastically.

      Reply
      • Alex Swanson M.S.

        Hi Manmeet,

        What will work really depends on what’s causing the high blood pressure. For example, there is research on magnesium, calcium, vitamin D, CoQ10, potassium, C, E and carotenoids lowering blood pressure. But for these to work, a deficiency or imbalance (high sodium, low potassium) is typically occurring. Since this started 7 years ago, I suspect an estrogen/oxidative stress connection to elevated blood pressure (estrogen works as an antioxidant and vasodilator) and issues with the thyroid.

        Shingles usually occurs after a bout of chronic stress, and Hashimotos is a good clue towards the cause of high blood pressure, indicating potential oxidative stress. I would recommend asking your doctor to see if the thyroxine dose needs to be modified. Since the new blood pressure medications didn’t work, lowering stress and optimizing thyroid health seems like the next logical place to look. You didn’t mention sleep, but if her sleep has been disrupted over two weeks, this could also affect blood pressure.

        Reply
  31. Sue Beebe

    Hi I so appreciate your information and the time and effort it costs you to research and share it. I have just ordered the Thorne multi vitamin supplement on a 30 day (2 bottle) delivery plan for my husband and I. I. Was wondering what you could tell me about Cal-Mag fizz as a supplement? My husband is 85 and has dementia and I am77 and just been diagnosed with early-early macular degeneration, which is hereditary. Thanks so much.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Sue,

      Thank you! Is it made by Baywood? If so, I wouldn’t recommend that product.

      Reply
  32. Mary Graham

    Hi have just found your site and read some of the letters and replies. I am trying to get over a couple of bouts of flu/viral infections and wondered if your Swanson Ultra Maximum Resistaid would be a Good way of getting back my ‘get up and go’ energy? I am a Uk resident, and found a site called Healthy Monthly,co.uk where this could be purchased. Thank you.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Mary,

      I am actually a different Swanson! That mix up happens a lot. I can’t comment on the effectiveness of that product, but I think prebiotics combined with probiotics do help with immunity. I have an article on colds/flu that you may find helpful. http://paleoedge.com/battle-tested-cold-flu-remedies-20152016/

      Reply
  33. Cynthia

    Hello Alex,

    I am a 68 year old healthy woman who has been taking Lion’s Mane for three years to reduce a kind of brain fogginess. It works! I just had a hip replacement & will be on coumadin for a month. I have stopped taking my herbal supplements (most of which have one or two ingredients that apparently interact negatively with coumadin.) I would like to continue the Lion’s Mane & am unable to find out if there would be a problem with coagulation. Thank you for any help you can offer.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Cynthia,

      It’s great stuff! I’m not aware of any coagulation properties of Lion’s Mane. I checked my clinical guide of medicinal mushrooms and the only caution is for “asthma and other allergic conditions.”

      Reply
  34. Dennis

    Do any of the recommended vitamins have glucosomine/MSM for joint health?

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Dennis,

      No, I don’t believe so. That would be a great addition.

      Reply
  35. Mel

    This is such a helpful read. We are in the UK so hope I can find some of the mentioned vitamins to help my poor dad.
    He is 83 and on stating for his heart . He is experiencing memory loss and depression and has lost his get up and go for life. Do you think the o.n.e can help him?

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Mel,

      I’m sorry to hear about your dad. Did the memory loss and depression occur after he started the statin? I don’t know anything about your dad’s blood work and the reasons behind the use of the statin, but I think you will find the cholesterol section of this article enlightening: How to Interpret Your Cardiovascular Blood Work in 5 Easy Steps.

      Regarding your question about O.N.E., I wouldn’t be able to say without knowing more about the cause of memory loss and depression. It will help address the deficiencies induced by medications, but if the root issue is from lowering cholesterol and testosterone (this is something to check and would cause depression and the get-up and go), then that’s where you need to focus.

      Reply
  36. Manny Zaf

    Hi Alex, I am writing to you on behalf of my mother who is 87 years old who has been diagnosed with dementia. She is quite independent and likes to ponder in the garden. I was hoping you could suggest an appropriate multivitamin to assist her with this condition. My only concern is that she takes the following medication; Crestor for her slight elevated cholesterol, Idaprex for elevated blood pressure and has recently been taking aspirin daily to assist with blood flow of a partially blocked artery. At times she can become emotional and loses that get up and go drive that she is known for. Hope you can help. Thank you.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Manny,

      I would be happy to help. Crestor is going to deplete CoQ10, K2, and selenium. Aspirin will deplete folate and vitamin C. The O.N.E multivitamin would be the one to run by her doctor. I think you would also benefit from reading the cholesterol information in the cardiovascular blood work article.

      Reply
  37. Carolyn

    What are your thoughts on Garden of Life Dr. Formulated MOOD Probiotics? My mother was on Prozac and we weaned her off after a year on it due to being stabilized after her loss. The D.F. probiotic seems to be helping. but I wondered if there is something else you’d recommend?

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Carolyn,

      I think it is well-formulated, especially since it is combined with ashwagandha. If it is helping, there is no reason to make a change.

      Reply
      • Carolyn

        Thank you so much for replying!! And as I read others’ posts, I saw your response on November 22, 2016 at 9:13 am to Kathy about CoQ10 if on statin drugs. My mother is on Zocor 20mg QD. Now, my mom has had high bp virtually her whole life. It’s been questioned if it could be related to the fact that she was a chicken farmer growing up and eggs were a staple product in her diet. I read this article (http://www.healthline.com/health/coq10-and-statins#takeaway5) and I wonder if CoQ10 may or may not benefit my mom. She does frequently complain of muscle pain in her legs.

        In addition to getting her off Prozac, with her new Dr’s consent after an intense stress test, we also took her off Atenolol which she’d been on unnecessarily for 15+ yrs. Do you think leg pain symptoms are more statin related, and if so, how confident are you that CoQ10 can help based on the article referenced above? She hates taking pills as it is, so I hate to introduce more if it won’t help. My ultimate goal is to get her off all unnecessary prescription drugs with diet & natural/holistic methods.

        Reply
          • Alex Swanson M.S.

            Hi Carolyn,

            What I haven seen work for arthritis is a combination of collagen powder, vitamin C, and glucosamine.

        • Alex Swanson M.S.

          Hi Carolyn,

          There are many genetic and dietary factors that influence blood pressure. I don’t believe eggs would be the reason. Pastured eggs contain a protein that acts like an ingredient in ACE inhibitors and contains omega-3 fatty acids, which lower blood pressure. High blood pressure can happen from high sodium/low potassium diet, high phosphorus, magnesium deficiency, low potassium, CoQ10 deficiency, EPA and DHA deficiency and low estrogen in women. After menopause, there is a dramatic rise in the prevalence of hypertension in women, suggesting estrogen plays a role.

          Muscle pain is a side effect of CoQ10 induced deficiency from statins. Mitochondria (powerhouse of the cell) are concentrated in the muscle cells. The mitochondria are also concentrated in the heart. So the muscle pain is a sign of oxidative stress in the mitochondria. I haven’t seen CoQ10 supplementation help muscle pain taken at the same time of a statin. The hope is that it is making up for the CoQ10 deficient induced by the statin and reducing other risks, but it is hard to say by how much. The muscle pain goes away when a statin is discontinued.

          Reply
  38. Bridget

    What do you think about the issue of ‘oxidative stress’ and avoiding calcium and copper in multi-vitamins – especially for multi-vitamens for women post menopause? The “Two-per-Day Capsules by Life Extension Foundtion are recommended. Thank you kindly for your responses to these queries, a most generous service for all readers, as I am learning so much in your responses to everyone’s questions.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Bridget,

      Can you clarify your question regarding oxidative stress? Are you asking in relation to calcium and copper or is that a separate question? Who is recommending the Two-Per-Day Capsules by Life Extension? Thank you, I’m very motivated to help people get accurate answers.

      Reply
  39. Bridget

    Hi Alex,
    Thank you for your reply. I am referring to Dr. Levy’s website: https://www.peakenergy.com/articles/nh20140713/Best-nutrients-to-have-in-your-%E2%80%98one-a-day%E2%80%99-supplement. I have gone onto Life Extensions website and am impressed with the quality of what I see in the ingredients, but I am no expert and don’t want to be fooled by what ‘looks good’ to a layperson, but which may not be as good as it ‘looks’. I would very much appreciate your feedback on the Life Extension multi-vitamin products and vitamin C available here:http://web.aisle7.net/AtlasAdvisor/reportAction?format=html&links=resource-path-encoded&styles=enhanced&request_handler_uri=&apicallbacksource=%2fapi%2f1.0%2fassets%2ftool%2fvitamin-advisor-3-0&machine=rYOonADFL0WQWdG3Mpihlg&ajaxcallback=1&session=MkpJbYN6AkiiiVDWtpQ9dQ&operation=print&options=&state=%7b%22activePageIndex%22%3a5%2c%22completed%22%3atrue%2c%22completionCount%22%3a1%2c%22hasNextPage%22%3afalse%2c%22hasPreviousPage%22%3atrue%2c%22isOnFinalPage%22%3atrue%2c%22rawAnswers%22%3a%7b%22Q_BirthYear%22%3a%5b%223%22%5d%2c%22Q_Gender%22%3a%5b%222%22%5d%2c%22Q_HealthHistory%22%3a%5b%5d%2c%22Q_Indigestion%22%3a%5b%220%22%5d%2c%22Q_Osteoporosis%22%3a%5b%220%22%5d%2c%22Q_MenopauseSymptoms%22%3a%5b%220%22%5d%2c%22Q_Pregnant%22%3a%5b%220%22%5d%2c%22Q_PMS%22%3a%5b%220%22%5d%2c%22Q_Pollution%22%3a%5b%221%22%5d%2c%22Q_SunExposure%22%3a%5b%5d%2c%22Q_Smoking%22%3a%5b%220%22%5d%2c%22Q_Stress%22%3a%5b%220%22%5d%2c%22Q_Energy%22%3a%5b%220%22%5d%2c%22Q_Mood%22%3a%5b%221%22%5d%2c%22Q_Vegetarian%22%3a%5b%221%22%5d%2c%22Q_Fish%22%3a%5b%220%22%5d%2c%22Q_Dairy%22%3a%5b%221%22%5d%2c%22Q_Medications%22%3a%5b%5d%2c%22%22%3a%5b%5d%7d%2c%22totalPageCount%22%3a6%2c%22visiblePageNumber%22%3a6%2c%22visiblePageCount%22%3a6%2c%22proteinNumber%22%3a0%2c%22bmr%22%3a0%2c%22mrpList%22%3anull%2c%22recipeList%22%3anull%2c%22supplementList%22%3anull%7d
    Many thanks!!
    Bridget

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Bridget,

      I haven’t seen evidence that calcium supplementation causes oxidative stress. Copper in excess can be an issue. The amount in most multivitamins is small and in a certain ratio with zinc, but some people should try to avoid extra copper in supplementation. Cupric oxide is a form used in cheap multivitamins and should be avoided completely. There isn’t any copper in Optimal Health, O.N.E or Integrative Therapeutics listed on this page.

      The Life Extension 2 a Day is mostly well-formulated. I would prefer that they didn’t use synthetic beta-carotene. The Buffered vitamin C product would be the way to go for the vitamin C selection.

      Reply
  40. Carolina

    Hello!
    My grandma is 92 and has always been pretty healthy. Recently started with some strong pain and seems like it is gallbladder stones, which they are trying so see if the can remove with mild sedation rather than surgery because of her age. They will do a test this afternoon to confirm if it can be done, but now that she is hospitalized and done some other exams found an enlarged heart and some colon problems, she has not been eating much lately so she is declining fast, we wanted to get some multivitamin that will help her. She is taking high blood pressure, medicine and blood thinners. What would you recommend. I want to buy them between today and tomorrow to take them with my overseas.
    Thank you

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Carolina,

      I’m very sorry to hear your grandma is struggling right now. If she is taking blood thinners, you want to avoid vitamin K. This would make the O.N.E multivitamin the best choice. Make sure to run it by your doctor first just in case so he or she can check for any potential interactions with the other medications. I hope she gets better.

      Reply
      • Carolina

        Alex,
        Thank you so much I will go tomorrow to buy the O.N.E. She finally received some ensure yesterday and today was feeling much better. I am really hoping that the vitamins will give her more strength so she can survive the gallbladder stone removal.
        I really appreciate all your research, and the time to respond to each comment. I am glad I found this page and will check it out more as we were thinking on going Whals-Paleo as my husband got diagnosed with MS .

        Again, many thanks !!
        Carolina

        Reply
  41. Bridget

    Many thanks, Alex!!

    Reply
  42. Cathy

    Hi Alex,
    Wow your research and information is wonderful! I just came across it online.
    My question… I am 55 year old female, good health, I take no medications…
    I have been researching to find the right vitamins fd supplements for myself. I am post menopausal. I started eating a plant based diet this year and I really like it.. (not so sure that would be what youd recommend?) And am concerned if I am getting the nutrition I need. I am trying.
    I read your info about multi vitamins for (older) but want to know which you would recommend for me? And what other supplements you’d also recommend above and beyond the multi?
    Omegas? ( fish oil based or plant and which one.. More calcium, magnesium etc? And which ones you recommend?
    Thank you so much,
    Cathy

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Cathy,

      Glad you found it informative! I have no issues with a plant-based diet, as long as it includes some eggs for choline and fish (or fish oil) for DHA. You are probably closer to using the regular Naturelo women’s multivitamin found on the other multivitamin page here.

      Recommendations beyond the multivitamin change person to person based on health history and genetics, so it would be difficult for me to accurately make those suggestions. This is why I have people do the nutrigenomic analysis through Nutrition Genome, so you can pinpoint your exact needs. Generally, fish oil, magnesium, probiotics and vitamin C with a multivitamin is a very comprehensive standard program.

      Reply
      • Cathy

        Thank you so very much! So in your opinion I shouldn’t go with plant based omegas, stick with fish oil?
        I haven’t included eggs or fish but could try to do that. I’ll look at the supplements you mentioned… besides the multi do I need more calcium or does the multi you recommended have adequate amounts?
        I’ll look up the information you provided for me and see what I can figure out!
        Again love getting your feedback!
        Thank you for your time and knowledge!
        Cathy

        Reply
        • Alex Swanson M.S.

          Hi Cathy,

          If using a plant-based omega, use algae DHA. The ALA plant-based formulas have very poor conversion rates in the body to EPA and DHA. Otherwise, fish oil is the way to go.

          If you are eating a lot of dark green vegetables, calcium supplementation is not necessary.

          Reply
          • Cathelina

            I am a 58-year old woman. I do not take any medication(s). I have diverticulitis with pre-cancerous polyps (regular colonoscopies). I need a good multivitamin and probiotic for diverticulitis as I do have bouts if I eat something that my system rejects.

            Thank you

          • Alex Swanson M.S.

            Hi Cathelina,

            Any of the recommended multivitamins listed here should work for you. In regards to a probiotic, I have an article with recommendations here.

  43. Evelyn

    Hi Alex
    My 92 year old mother had a bad fall a week ago and after a short stay in hospital after surgery on her knee is now home. Though she is slowly recovering from her injuries she has no appetite. The only food I can get her to eat is cake so I wondered if a multivitamin would help, if so could you recommend a suitable one either on prescription or over the counter. Apart from arthritis she is usually quite well and strong.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Evelyn,

      I’m sorry to hear about your mom. A multivitamin most likely won’t help and may even make her nauseous if she’s not eating. Homemade broth is a great way for her to get minerals, amino acids and collagen, which will also help her recovery and arthritis. If you can get her to take some buffered vitamin C powder in water, that will also help expedite her recovery.

      Reply
  44. Maria

    Hello Alex, I’ve read most of the information on this thread. WOW! Thank you for all the info. I’m also looking for a liquid multi vitamin for my mom. She is 72. She has a pace maker, and also, went through cancer treatments 2010 (Radiation) She is, so far, cancer free. Last year she had an infection that placed her in the hospital and they said from draining the infection she contracted MRSA. They gave her the strongest I.V antibiotics they had. She ended up very weak after all said and done. She’s better now and home, but complains she has no energy at all. I make her home made soups and she loves that. I try to tell her Salmon and veggies are your best friend. I also, tried to get her to juice (lettuce – red leaf – romaine, spinach, kale and also separate green organic apples). Last year I told her to ask her Dr to give her a vitamin B12 shot to help her energy. She felt a little better after that, but they always try to steer her away from getting it. I know vitamin B12 stays in the system for at least 6months or so. She asked me tonight if there is a good liquid multi vitamin for women over 70. Please, what would you suggest? Thank you for any help. She is complaining about not having good BM and she is constipated and only a little at a time comes out. She also has gained a lot of wait, and she is on oxygen 24/7. Again, thanks for any help.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Maria,

      Wow, your mom has been through a lot! Great job with her nutrition. Regarding a liquid multivitamin, the first option on this list is a powder that you mix in liquid. There is a liquid multimineral called ReMyte, but it doesn’t contain any vitamins. Liquid multivitamins tend to have stability issues with the water soluble vitamins, so adding a powder to liquid is the best approach. For her digestion and past use of antibiotics, I would consider using a probiotic like VSL#3 and perhaps CALM, which is powdered magnesium citrate.

      Reply
      • Maria

        Alex, thank you kindly. She does have diverticulosis. The VSL#3 will not harm her, because of this? Thank you again, for your direction.

        Reply
        • Alex Swanson M.S.

          Hi Maria,

          No, VSL#3 will not cause an issue with diverticulosis.

          Reply
  45. El Ojo

    I’m finding it very difficult to obtain objective reviews of a supplement called Total Balance men’s premium dietary supplement made by Xtendlife. I am 81 and pretty fit and active and have been taking these vitamins for about 3 years. I did stop taking them for six months and did experience a couple of heavy colds that have not re-occurred since I began retaking same. My slight worry is the lack of unprejudiced scientific reviews available. Plenty of marketing hype. Your opinion as to the efficacy of this product would be much appreciated.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi El Ojo,

      I did a review of XtendLife when deciding on Thorne’s Basic Nutrients 2 a Day. It is a fairly good formulation with high-quality ingredients. However, I picked the Optimal Multivitamin Powder and Thorne’s Basic Nutrients over Xtend for a few reasons.

      -Xtend uses folic acid instead of methylfolate or folinic acid. I wrote an article in more detail at Nutrition Genome on why folic acid should be avoided.
      -They use cobamamide for B12, which is adenosylcobalamin. This is the mitochondrial form of B12. Research has found a combination of methlycobalamin and adenosylcobalamin or hydroxocobalamin is the best approach for B12 absorption.
      -Vitamin D is 2,000IU vs. 500IU in Xtend. This is significant since many people are low in D, especially those over 70.
      -Vitamin E is 103IU in Xtend. When you look at vitamin E content in food, it is naturally very low and is regenerated by C. There is research showing higher amounts of vitamin E (400IU or higher) may be inflammatory for certain people based on their glutathione genes. I think this particular fat-soluble vitamin should ideally be in the 20-30mg range. Xtend does have the right idea of going lower than other formulas and makes a note of it and I think under 200IU for a supplement should be fine.
      -There are a lot of extras in Xtend in very small amounts that may not be significant enough to make a difference. This is strictly for marketing in my opinion. I prefer formulas that add fewer extras in meaningful amounts. I do like the male health support blend portion.
      -7 capsules in Xtend versus 2 capsules for Thorne’s Basic Nutrients. If you are going to take 7 capsules, I think it would be a better idea to add extra magnesium so that you hit a 400-600mg target each day. Xtend only has 70mg.

      If they can keep their price point and make a few formula changes (esp. folic acid), they would have a very competitive multi. Ultimately, you have had good success with the product and my opinion is strictly objective.

      Reply
  46. El Ojo

    How refreshing to have a concise and helpful reply. Thank you Sir Alex!

    Reply
  47. El Ojo

    Just one more thought. Do you subscribe to the opinion that enteric coated vitamin pills have any value in attempting to bypass the stomach.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi El Ojo,

      Excellent question.

      First, our stomach acid is not designed to destroy vitamins and minerals and it actually plays a major role in absorption. When you use a proton pump inhibitor, which inhibits stomach acid, you can become deficient in B12, iron, vitamin C, calcium, and magnesium. Enteric coated supplements may lead to a decreased bioavailability of nutrients like B12 because they must interact with molecules in the stomach to be efficiently absorbed. One of the few studies that looked at enteric coated calcium found that enteric coating led to a substantial decrease in calcium bioavailability.

      Second, multivitamins are designed to be taken with food, which slows down digestion and increases absorption. If you take it on an empty stomach, you will not absorb the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K, and carotenoid absorption goes way down. Enteric coated pills are typically taken on an empty stomach, which then has the potential to overwhelm the small intestine and lower absorption capabilities. There has also been research that enteric coating of aspirin has a lower bioavailability than regular aspirin due to the higher pH in the small intestine.

      I am not aware of any published research showing superior absorption of enteric-coated multivitamins, and evidence actually points to the contrary.

      Reply
  48. Anita

    Hi, could you send me the optimal amount of vitamins for a nearly 80 years old man? we don’t have the mentioned brands here and would like to put together a correct vitamin supplement regime for him and cant find any recommendations on amounts over 70. Thank you

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Anita,

      I would look at the labels of the brands I have listed and try to find something comparable with the types of vitamins and minerals used and the amounts. If you have products you would like me to review, send the links here and I will take a look.

      Reply
  49. Heather

    Can you recommend a Multivitamin for estrogen positive breast cancer cancer survivor taking tamoxifen?

    Reply
    • Heather

      Sorry Alex. I should have added I take Divalproex 500mg DR also and will be weaning off soon dropping to 250mg ER. I was looking at the Daily Multi-Vitamin plus Minerals /without Copper Iron from STAR ENERGETICS and was wondering what you thought about that. http://www.starenergetics.com. Thank you.

      Reply
      • Alex Swanson M.S.

        Hi Heather,

        Medications that are used to treat seizure disorders (like Divalproex) may not compatible with B-vitamin supplementation due to shared pathways. Some people are fine while others notice issues. The Star Energetics multivitamin uses the right forms of vitamins and minerals but may come up short for you.

        Breast health is reliant on adequate vitamin D, iodine, selenium, zinc, omega-3’s and choline. The vitamin D in Star Energetics is only 100 IU, so if your levels are low, you will need more. Higher vitamin D levels are linked to lower rates of breast cancer. Iodine is only 50 mcg and iodine deficient breast tissue exhibits the early markers of cancer development. Zinc is only 6.5mg. The Citramins II without copper and iron, which will soon be the Biomins II by Thorne Research, may be a good fit for you for now along with vitamin D and fish oil.

        A lot of women have trouble tolerating Tamoxfin, and if this turns out to be the case, consider the Enoki mushroom. Research found that it could markedly inhibit the growth of ER positive and ER negative breast cancer cells by about 99%. Lignans (polyphenol class) in the diet are associated with less aggressive tumor characteristics in women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. One study in mice concluded that flaxseed inhibited the growth of human estrogen-dependent breast cancer. Flaxseeds are the highest source of lignans.

        I know this was more than you asked for, but I couldn’t help sharing more useful information for you.

        Reply
        • Heather

          Thank you so much for the information. I will definitely use it.

          Reply
  50. Deb wianecki

    What recommendation do you have for a liquid vitamin preparation?

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Deb,

      I recommend usIng the Optimal powder that you mix in liquid. This is more stable than mulitivitamins that come in a liquid form.

      Reply
  51. gbutner

    Hi Alex, I’m 63 and I’ve been on Crestor for 3 years, very healthy and cholesterol is great now. My sisters has been 450 at times I don’t like taking this stuff should I continue?

    Reply
  52. gbutner

    Hi Alex, I have one more question. I am 63 and 10 pounds overweight(belly fat) should I eat regular butter, and milk(full fat), cause you made a reference to diet butter? I really like your kyak picture. Thanks so much for advice.

    Reply
  53. Driss

    Hi Alex,
    Very useful article! I am using Now Foods Adam and my partner is using Eve. Would you recommend the same for my parents (they’re 60+)? And which supplements would you recommend to help joints’ health? Thanks in advance for your help!
    Driss

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Driss,

      I apologize, I had replied but it looks like it didn’t post. The Now Foods Adam and Eve product uses synthetic folic acid and cyanocobalamin, so this isn’t a product I would recommend.

      For joint health, I recommend a combination of collagen powder (vital proteins is a good one) and vitamin C. This helps build collagen around the joints.

      Reply
  54. Monika

    Hello,

    My father in law is 80 and has his gallbladder removed. He was very healthy and strong all his life, but now he feels weaker. What would you reccommend for the person with operated gallbladder? Thank you!

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Monika,

      I’m sorry to hear your dad is struggling. Are you asking regarding his diet or supplementation?

      Reply
      • Monika

        more about supplementation, because he already knows the diet, but it’s hard to say how much he is following the rules…

        Reply
        • Alex Swanson M.S.

          Hi Monika,

          The diet is the main focus for a missing gallbladder. His needs are the same in terms of supplementation, but coconut oil is going to be the best fat to use (and to help absorption of fat-soluble vitamins in formulations) because it doesn’t require bile to break it down.

          Reply
  55. Driss

    Hi Alex,

    Sorry for reposting but I noticed I’m the only one you didn’t answer. Is something wrong with my question. Thanks anyways for all you do.
    Kind regards,
    Driss

    Reply
  56. Mike

    Dear Alex, I wondered if you had any comment to make on the subscription website ConsumerLab.com. There appears to be criticism of the method of raising funds from companies whose products are tested. On the face of it such a testing company would be very welcome if it could prove it’s impartiality and veracity.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Mike,

      That is a great question. I have paid for a subscription to Consumer Labs over the last few years and check their reports myself. I have heard those criticisms as well and unfortunately, I can’t verify it. If you find out more information regarding it, please let me know.

      Reply
  57. Rami

    Hi Alex,
    My mother is 74 years and she is suffering from Parkinson almost 15 years now. A year ago, she is start-having dizziness, vomiting and having unbearable pain in her thighs. After all diagnostic tests it was conclude that there is having insufficiency of Vitamin D and it was 25 mg and suggested to increase. Further, supply with Vitamin C and D and Calcium. Now the Vitamin D has increased up to 35 mg after supplying it separately. By considering all these factors what brands and what kind of vitamins you suggest her? In addition, she also has cataract. Thank you very much in advance.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Rami,

      I am so sorry to hear about your mom. That is very difficult for me to give you an accurate answer without knowing much more than you provided. My recommendation would be to do the Nutrition Genome Report to understand potential underlying deficiencies and toxicities and consult one of the doctors listed on the site that uses the report. I designed Nutrition Genome to figure out the best way to approach cases like your mom.

      Nutrition Genome Report
      Consultations

      Reply
  58. Olga

    Hi Alex,

    First of all you are pue AMAZING!!! Thank you so much for all the work that you put into this website!

    Also, I have question regarding my mom. She is 72 years old and in perfect help, no meds, watches her food and excercises. I just got her off the multi’ that she was using One A Day and got her on the Mega Food and she loves it! She has even more energy. I can not catch up to her! Lol

    I liked that fact that Mega Food is a whole food Vitamin but so you think that the ones before it on your list are better quality?

    Also, aren’t “while food” vitamins better then synthetic. I read that the synthetic vitamins cause cancer.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Olga,

      Thank you! I’m so glad to see that the information is helping people.

      I would say that you can’t argue with results! I think the improved MegaFood supplement is a good product and whole food forms of vitamins are always superior. Tell her to stick with it.

      Reply
  59. Steve

    Thank you, great informative article.

    Reply
  60. Mary

    Hi Alex, Your articles are very informative. Forgive me if I missed information you may have already provided on my question. What is your opinion of the Nutrametrix brand? I’m using one of their advisors/sales reps to guide me in choosing supplements for optimum health based on a dna test I did through DNAfit. The rep is very helpful, but I want to make sure the NutraMetrix products are top quality in your opinion. Thank you.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Mary,

      Ah, DNAfit is my major competitor (my company is nutritiongenome.com). It’s okay I’ll still help you :). Do you have any particular products you would like me to review? As an overview, their prices seem very high.

      Reply
    • Manas

      Hi Alex
      Your write up is very informative cogent and praiseworthy. I am 76 and my wife is 71
      I am regularly taking PPI (Pantocid DSR) and Tonact 10 (Statin).
      My wife is with a shunt for hydrocephalus. She had ulcerative colitis and now OK with mesalamine. At present she is suffering from shoulder joint pain.Not recovered with steroid injection in the joint.
      What vitamin supplements you recommend for both of us.We are staying at Kolkata India.

      Reply
      • Alex Swanson M.S.

        Hi Manas,

        Thank you for the kind words. In this case, it is best if both of you see a health care practitioner to make that decision. Your wife will especially benefit from someone taking a case history, determining the nutrient depletions from medications, and making recommendations that will be safe for her.

        Reply
  61. Thomas

    I currently live in the Philippines. When I read your article on best vitamins for seniors (I am 70 in fairly good health) it really hit home as I thought I was properly supplementing my diet with a Centrum Silver pill a day. The only other supplement I take is turmeric. On the good side, my doctor recently took me off of statin drugs as I do not meet the revised risk assessements with the exception of high bad cholesterol (I have been on statins since 1985 when prescribed by a Navy doctor.

    I am interested in the multivitamins described in your analysis. Unfortunately getting anything here is difficult. The only creditable reseller is GNC. Are you aware of any sources for the multi vitamins you recommend that export to the Philippines?

    Thank you for your informative article.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Thomas,

      Good question. I would reach out to the companies and see if they will ship to you. Do you have any online retailers in the Philippines (or nearby) where I can see a list of what they carry?

      Reply
  62. Ashim

    Hi Alex, thanks for the excellent article. I’m in India and looking for a multivitamin for my dad who is 71. He had a prostectomy last year, and is fairly regular with the cranberry. From your list of multivitamins, I can’t find Mega food 55+ men’s in India. What’s your opinion on Nature’s Way Alive Mens 50 Plus Ultra Potency? Best online retailer in India is probably Amazon India, but they don’t have a great deal of options. Other choice I have is Thorne Research Basic Nutrients at around $90.
    I would really appreciate your inputs.
    Thanks

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Ashim,

      Nature’s Way Alive Men’s 50 Plus Ultra potency uses folic acid, cyanocobalamin and zinc oxide. So I would avoid this one.

      Do you have any other multivitamin choices that use methylfolate and methylcobalamin?

      Reply
      • Ashim

        Thanks Alex. The only other option I see is Thorne Research Basic Nutrients at USD107 for 60 tabs. Worth it, you think?

        Reply
        • Alex Swanson M.S.

          Hi Ashim,

          That is very expensive and a tough call if that is your only option. If it was me, I would do 1 daily to make it last two months. You can also look for multiminerals, which could be easier to find and more affordable. Depending on his health, you may also want to bring in B-vitamins, vitamin C, D etc. in addition to the multimineral.

          Reply
  63. Yayoi Hara

    My 80 year old mother is taking Calm Magnesium/Calcium. After reading your article I want her to try the Magnesium L-Threonate, she’s becoming more forgetful so looking for ways to boost her memory (will be adding other supplements you recommended in this article to her regiment.) Would the two forms of Magnesium be too much? Thank you for your article.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Yayoi,

      You can absolutely use two different type of magnesium. Magnesium L-Threonate in the morning and Calm would be good in the evening.

      Reply
  64. Karen Monahan

    Hello — thanks for the great info. About 8 mos. ago, I switched my mom’s (92) multi from Centrum (she’d taken it for decades) to Thorne Basic and got her off of the Proton Pump inhibitor she’d been on for 2 years. I started looking at all of this stuff because there was a sudden cognitive decline going on. Well, the decline has continued, but her health otherwise is good. I’m wondering about the type of zinc (chelated) in the Thorne product and thinking to add a zinc supplement of another type. Thoughts?

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Karen,

      I’m sorry to hear about your mom and I’m glad to hear that you caught the potential links. A PPI strongly affects nutrient absorption, especially in older populations. You can add additional zinc (up to 30mg). Zinc Bisglycinate is one of the best-absorbed forms.

      Reply
  65. Carol

    Is the Naturelo for women a good choice for me as I am 57 years old? I take HCTZ for high blood pressure, but that is the only rx.
    The Naturelo was on the best list, but not on the best for older people list.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Carol,

      Yes, if you have a healthy digestive system and very few complaints, the Naturelo product is a great choice.

      Reply
      • Carol

        Would the Thorne Basic Nutrients 2/Day, or the Optimal Multivitamin Powder, both on the old folks list be preferable in any way? I have degenerative disc disease affecting my back and neck, eyes are crapping out on me, growing cysts, overweight, but still this side of being on lots of meds.

        Reply
        • Alex Swanson M.S.

          Hi Carol,

          This is my first comment on The Health Beat, which is the new name for PaleoEdge. I would say the Optimal Multivitamin Powder could be preferable if a lot of your meds are causing multiple nutrient deficiencies due to it being a stronger formula. Also, the lutein and zeaxanthin addition help your eyes. Since I don’t know which medications you take, I would run it by your doctor or pharmacist.

          Reply
  66. Lori J Travers

    Hello ALex
    Just found your web-site. Awesome info. Thanks. Just want to know what you thought about trace minerial. My husband is 77 and in good health, I’m 62 and good also except just finding out, after a heart cath, that there is some blockage but Dr.’s don’t seem to be worried. Unfortunatley I just orderd a product called Trace Minerals Research-Concentrace Trace Mineral Drops. Should I use this. Thanks

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Lori,

      Glad you found the site and like the info. Yes, the Trace Minerals Research Concentrace Drops are excellent to add to drinking water.

      Reply
  67. Elizabeth

    I’m age 64. Throughout the years I’ve taken Vitamins and the one I found that seems to absorb nicely with my digestion is Quest Multi and Chelated mineral. I’ve been taking these vitamins off and on for over 30 years. I’ve been told that either I take my vit for a whole month then go off them for one month just for my body to clean itself out. Or, take a vit every second day.
    I have not been taking any vitamins now for about half a year. I am doing research on all types to make sure I am getting the right kind for my age. So is there a way that I am able to find out exactly what vit’s I am lacking. I have had issues with stomach acid and the foods not digesting properly. Also I have always had issues with gastrointestinal issues. Okay thanks.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Elizabeth,

      I think the most accurate way to determine exactly what vitamins and minerals you require is to do a nutrigenomic analysis, then compare with your diet, personal health history, and family history. This is what I have done with clients for years to customize vitamin and minerals needs. Here is more about nutrigenomics: http://nutritiongenome.com/about/

      We are right in the middle of a transition to producing our own DNA kits with a new lab, but they should be available in the next three weeks.

      Reply
  68. Holly

    Hi Alex,
    Thanks for all the info. I am looking for an old folk vitamin for (65)seniors with all kinds of gastro problems. I find that calcium and D always upset my stomach and even the Emergen C gives me horrible gas pains. Any thoughts for a multi vitamin for sensitive tummies?

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Holly,

      Typically when you have a lot of gastro-issues, liquids, powders, and sublinguals are the best way to go because you likely aren’t breaking down and absorbing multivitamin tablets or capsules. I would consider starting with simple things like probiotics and enzymes first and focusing on your diet. I have a probiotic article here. Then you can start working up to buffered vitamin C powder, magnesium powder, and powdered multivitamins in small doses.

      Reply
  69. Alison

    Hi Alex,

    Great site you have here…good job on helping so many people to make informed decisions.

    My father has untreatable stomach cancer and is trying to naturally remain as comfortable and healthy as possible via diet, however seems to be having more bad days then good lately. He is doing juicing and enemas to try to detox.

    We are confused as to what vitamins and mineral supplements he should be taking to best help himself. I was considering Mercola Whole Food Plus until I stumbled upon your articles.

    From what I gather he needs to be having Vit c, Vit D, B Vitamins, Zinc, Selenium, Curcumin, CQ10 – I may be wrong but this is what I am reading from various places.

    Can you recommend any particular product that would cater to his requirements please? He would find it difficult to have 8 tablets a day like the once mentioned above. The other consideration was Tangy Tangerine 2.0 90+ package but I have also read that this contains unfavourable ingredients.

    Thank you so much.

    Al

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Alison,

      I just finished reading a research paper that came out showing the proton pump inhibitors increased the risk of stomach cancer by 800%. I’m so sorry to hear about your father. There is a need to focus more on improving absorption of vitamins and minerals with homemade chicken and bone broth, fermented foods and drinks (and probiotics like VSL#3), and enzymes. Many supplements that he swallows will probably not absorb well. I just found out about a company in Canada that makes whole food vitamin and mineral powders that have been tested for stability. I spoke with the founder and was very impressed with their research. https://www.pranin.com/shop/organic-vitamins-minerals/purefood-a-to-z/#tab-ingredients

      Vitamin D drops would be one that would need to be separate based on his levels and buffered vitamin C powder if tolerated.

      Let me know if I can be of further help.

      Reply
  70. Jan

    Alex, I am 65 and have osteopenia and quit taking prescription bone enhancement meds several years ago due to articles I read. I also have high BP and am taking 5mg Amlodipine Besylate per day. If I get the Thorne Basic Nutrients 2/day, what would you suggest for extra bone support and do I need anything else to offset the BP med I am taking? I probably have arthritis as my hands are very sore and weak and my right hand tingles and palms itches (read this might be to Vit D deficiency – what do you think? Any supplement recommendations you can suggest would be appreciated. I have searched the web for a long time and feel your site is the best I have come across. Thank you for any suggestions you can give.

    Reply
  71. Jan

    Hi Alex, since my post earlier this morning, I have kept reading and have come up with the following- do you agree and is there anything else I need?
    North American Herb & Spice Polar Power Wild Salmon Oil
    Thorne Basic Nutrients 2/day
    Probiotic VSL #3
    Cal-Mag Citrate (Effervescent Powder)

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Jan,

      That looks like an excellent program! There isn’t much I can add to it. Keep me updated on your progress.

      Reply
  72. Gaia Mount

    Alex,
    I really appreciate all the work you’ve done to come up with this page! It’s so very helpful. I would like to get my mom, who’s over 70, but looking about 65, very active (still working as a psychotherapist), very involved, giving interviews and talks at various occasions.
    She had a sort of breakdown last summer with her pancreas (the doctors weren’t exactly sure, but the final diagnosis indicated acute pancreatitis). We’re located in Poland, but I would happily ship the right supplement down to her, if you kindly advised us what it should be. I’m looking at Wellwoman 70+, Wild Nutrition 45+ (Bespoke Woman), Women’s 50+ by Whole Earth&Sea, also thinking about what Hipocratese said, I wonder if you could advise us on the best gut boosting formula, enhancing absorbtion. I didn’t mention this, but it may be crucial – my mom’s vegetarian. Thank you so much for any help! Gaia

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Gaia,

      I’m sorry to hear about your mom. She sounds like an incredible woman. In this case, the focus should be on enzymes, probiotics, and prebiotics for healthy digestion and absorption. She is also going to absorb something in powder form much better than a capsule. There is a company in Canada called Pranin that makes a true whole food powder that is vegetarian. I’ve been talking with the founder regarding the formulation and trying the products. I will be adding them to this article soon. Here is the product: https://www.pranin.com/shop/organic-vitamins-minerals/purefood-a-to-z/

      Reply
  73. Gaia Mount

    Hello,
    I didn’t get through to you somehow last time, I would be so grateful if you could please recommend some kind of multivitamin for my over 70 year old mom, very active, socially and professionally. Her recent problem was with the pancreas.

    Thanks very much!
    Gaia

    Reply
  74. Millie Ker

    Brilliant article! Thank you so much for all this exhaustive research. It is so incredibly helpful. I wanted to access the further reading article bue am being asked to Login but I can’t find where to register on your site.

    Apologies if I am being stupid but please could you direct me to right place to give my details and set my password.

    Many thanks

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Millie,

      Thank you! No need to log in anywhere. Everything on the site is free.

      Reply
  75. Jan

    Alex, since my last post I came up with the following supplements as a senior:
    North American Herb & Spice Polar Power Wild Salmon Oil
    Thorne Basic Nutrients 2/day
    Probiotic VSL #3
    Cal-Mag Citrate (Effervescent Powder)
    Since then I have had 12 inches of my colon removed-found out I had Level 2 colon cancer. They say all the cancer was removed with on caveat-the cancer was close to a blood vessel which in other instances has lead to additional cancer. The doctor says it’s not likely but something to check on from time to time. I’m also scheduled to see an oncologist to get an opinion as to whether I need any cancer treatments, but he doesn’t think I will. In the meantime, do you recommend any other supplementation?

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Jan,

      The wild salmon oil and the VSL#3 would be the most important. There is a lot of research on diet and colon cancer. Optimize your vitamin D levels and consider the medicinal mushroom Coriolus (Turkey Tail). It can be used as a preventative and I have written about it as an adjunct to therapy here.

      Reply
      • Jan

        Alex, is the Vitamin D in the Thorne Basic Nutrients 2/day enough or should I take extra…if extra, what is the best supplement?
        Also, what do you think about Livon Vit C and B lipospheric supplements?

        Reply
        • Alex Swanson M.S.

          Hi Jan,

          This depends on your vitamin D level. This is worth getting tested by your doctor to see if you are deficient, in which case, you would want to dose higher temporarily.

          Regarding Lypospheric supplements, there are some people who really appear to prefer the lypospheric vitamin C. I haven’t seen a difference myself when compared to L-ascorbate. I have a vitamin C article here. The lypospheric B-complex uses cyanocobalamin, and then adds amounts of zinc and selenium that could end up being too high if combined with a multivitamin so it isn’t one I recommend.

          Reply
          • Jan

            Thanks for the info! I just read info on Turkey Tail and am going to try it to see if it can relieve the tingling and burning in my left hand. I had nerve tests and an MRI and nothing showed up. Searching showed many different products…is there one in particular you can recommend.

          • Alex Swanson M.S.

            Hi Jan,

            Are you referring to Lion’s Mane for tingling and burning? Or did you find research that Turkey Tail helps it?

          • Jan

            I just read your info on Turkey Tail. My right hand started itching a couple of months before I found out I had colon cancer, and after doing some reading got the impression that the issue with my hand may be the result of having cancer and could have been a warning sign. It graduated to burning and tingling and still persists after colon surgery in November. I’ve started intensive deep tissue massage which I believe has helped a little. I read somewhere that colon cancer could result in nerve issues. I’ve had nerve tests and an MRI and nothing has shown up to let me know why I have this issue. I’m ready to try something new. Would you recommend one of these supplements to try for my hand issue and preventative cancer or something different? If so, could you recommend a certain one as there are several on the market.

          • Alex Swanson M.S.

            Hi Jan,

            I think Turkey Tail is an excellent medicinal mushroom for colon health. Mushroom Science and Fungi Perfecti both have superior products. It is hard to know what kind of supplement would help the issue with your right hand without understanding more about why it is happening, especially if is a structural change that is affecting blood flow to your hand.

          • Jan

            By the way, I’m taking Capecitabine, 1500 mg for 6 months. I’ve got about 2 and a half months left.

  76. Donna Beth

    Found the article very helpful. I am a generally healthy 61 yr old recently diagnosed with osteoporosis and osteopenia. (Just finished a 60 day run of PPI for gastric ulcers but other than that, no pharmaceuticals.) While the 2000 iu of Vit D3 and the inclusion of Vit K2 seem excellent, the calcium level seems low for someone who is trying to be careful to get 1200 mg daily in diet / supplement. Any suggestions?

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Donna,

      Yes, you would want to add an additional calcium/magnesium product. Multivitamins typically do not contain much calcium or magnesium because they are bulky and require multiple capsules. My family’s nutrition practice uses this one: https://swansonhealthcenter.com/shop/bone-health/shc-bone-builder/

      Reply
  77. Alysen

    Hi Alex, I just wanted to say that I googled multivitamins for 60+ and love your info and explanations. I felt compelled to comment, because the other day I almost picked up a bottle of Centrum Silver Women….
    I turned 62 in July, don’t take any rX, have been around 30-40 lbs. overweight for around 20+ years but otherwise very healthy. Around 2 yrs ago, one day after doing my interval walk/jog on my treadmill my left knee hurt and the next day I could hardly get around at work. Was diagnosed with Osteo-arthritis. Stopped any form of walk/run exercise, started strengthening upper leg muscles. Rheumatologist took around 3/4 to 1 cup of fluid out of knee, gave me 3 injections of Hyaluronic acid. Knee started hurting again 3 months later.
    Then around 1 yr ago, I started taking Osteo Bi-Flex triple strength 2/day and after 1 week I noticed a significant improvement. Some will poo-poo this, but I did several experiments over the past year of stopping for 1-2 weeks, then pain and limited movement coming back, then re-starting treatment and having mobility and no pain. So I absolutely ‘swear’ by this med/brand and do tell others to try it. BUT, my real reason for commenting follows:
    Since coming back to the U.S. in April 2017 (have lived in France past 27 years) to help caregive our 94-y.o. mom, I decided to cut way down on carbs in July to try my own modified form of Keto. (Not easy to do in France since my husband is French/Italian and we had pasta at least 6x/week for dinner and it’s hard to resist :)))
    Have lost some weight (didn’t weigh before starting) but it’s going slowly which is fine with me! After about 3 weeks my left knee stopped cracking when standing plus other minor knee aches and I stopped taking my ‘knee pills’ …
    I think weight loss helped, but mostly the inflammation inside my body from cutting down on carbs and fat. Since the middle of December when my daughter came to visit I’d been eating more carbs, fat, chocolate, etc. and my knee started hurting again. This was another one of my experiments! My deduction therefore, is that it’s the carb reduction/cell inflammation more than weight since I know I didn’t gain the weight back that I lost in only 2 weeks!
    So … it’s been 4 days since daughter left and I re-started low carbs (50-80g/day as my reference point) and my knee doesn’t hurt at all.
    I know I don’t get all the nutrients I need even with eating mostly veggies, more meat, cheese, etc. and that’s what brought me to your site.
    Just wanted to share my story, experiments and documentation, hoping it may help someone else who may have the same issues with their knees.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Thank you for sharing your story! I’m glad to hear you are doing well with your dietary changes. I’ve seen this shift in inflammation many times in clients with joint pain.

      Reply
  78. Patty

    Wow -just what I’m looking for-straight forward, factual, here is how it works and why it is better/harmful. Being a nurse, your lingo was familiar but you tie it together with the “whys” and “hows”. And it makes sense!!
    I will study this and plan to make some changes.
    .

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Patty,

      Glad I could help!

      Reply
  79. Dee

    I just came across this article and have to say that it is certainly an eye-opener. We are looking for a multivitamin for my 95-year old father. He has taken (long-term) Plavix, lo dose aspirin, metformin, and cozaar, and others. He is having short-term memory problems and his language and concentration is deteriorating. Now I think I see why. His brain has been deprived of nutritional needs. I thought the O.N.E. would be appropriate because it does not have vitamin k; however, it does have 50mg of CoQ10. I have read that people on Plavix should not take CoQ10. What do you think?

    Reply
  80. Dee

    I just came across this article and what an eye opener. Thank you. We are looking for a multivitamin for our 95-year old father who already takes plavix, lo dose aspirin, metformin, and others. I thought the Pure O.N. E. looked like a good choice since it does not have any vitamin K; however, I have read that people on plavix or other blood thinners should not take CoQ10, and the O.N.E. has 50mg of CoQ10. What do you think about CoQ10 for plavix and aspirin users? Would the formulation be safe?

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Dee,

      The research appears to be mixed for blood thinners and CoQ10. There is likely some individual biochemical responses that would take more investigation on the doctor’s end to determine whether or not it is safe.

      Reply
  81. Kalua Rhody

    I’ve purchased Natrello products based on your other reviews. Would you recommend them also for seniors? If not, why?
    My mother is 72 and suffering from significant memory loss… Tests show early stages of Parkinson’s although her father died of Alzheimer’s when he was 77.
    I was telling my parents about Naturello products this evening, and your reviews, and have urged them to consider switching from Shaklee to Naturello.
    Should I recind my recommendation and instead tell them to buy one of the multivitamins you suggest here?
    Thanks!

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Kalua,

      Naturelo isn’t one I would recommend for most seniors because they need a stronger formula. This appears to especially be true for your mother. I would recommend a product like Thorne Research or Seeking Health. Consider choline intake as well for brain health and nerve health. I also recommend the book The End of Alzheimer’s by Dr. Dale Bredesen to research a comprehensive plan for her.

      Reply
      • Kalua Rhody

        You’re so helpful. Thank you!

        Reply
        • Alex Swanson M.S.

          No problem!

          Reply
      • Kalua Rhody

        I don’t see “Seeking Health” in your review. This is a brand name?

        Reply
        • Alex Swanson M.S.

          Hi Kalua,

          Yes, the Optimal Multivitamin is made by Seeking Health.

          Reply
  82. Melody

    what do you think about Eco Drink Multivitamin for a person over 55?

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Melody,

      I would avoid it due to the use of sucralose, synthetic vitamin E (Dl-alpha Tocopheryl Acetate) folic acid and cyanocobalamin.

      Reply
      • melody

        THANK YOU.

        WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT Natrol JuiceFestiv, 240 Capsules for a person of 65?

        Reply
        • Alex Swanson M.S.

          Hi Melody,

          These are like Juice Plus, which means you are getting small amounts of dehydrated fruits and vegetables with synthetic vitamins added to it. This one contains folic acid and cyanocobalamin, so I don’t recommend it.

          Reply
          • Melody

            ok thanks. how about Emerald Women’s Daily Multi (30) or
            Metagenics Phyio Multi 60

  83. melody

    how about Emerald Women’s Daily Multi (30) or
    Metagenics Phyio Multi 60

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Melody,

      The Emerald Women’s Daily Multi uses the correct forms of everything, but the ratios are all off. It is an odd formula in that regards, but it looks like they wanted to make a one-a-day multi which is why some nutrients are very low. Iodine is only 30mcg and vitamin C is only 50mcg. Folate is only 200mcg, while B12 is pretty high in comparison.

      The Metagenics Phyto Multi is the better choice out of the two.

      Reply
      • melody

        What do you think of Garden of Life Multivitamin for Women – mykind Organic Women’s Once Daily Whole Food Vitamin Supplement, Vegan. During the last 25 days of starting these multi-vitamins I have had 3 Niacin flushes… Been taking an extra B-12 2500 mcg and an extra 1000 mg of Vitamin C…don’t know if I should be taking all this. Don’t know whether I should stop using this and buy another multivitamin. I am over 65. Any advise or suggestions welcome.

        Reply
        • Alex Swanson M.S.

          Hi Melody,

          I don’t think highly of the Garden of Life multivitamins. If you keep getting niacin flushes, I would try a new product.

          Reply
  84. sheri

    Just curious why you don’t recommend Naturelo multivitamin for women in your senior recommendations.
    thanks

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Sheri,

      I don’t recommend Naturelo for the senior recommendations due to higher needs of certain vitamins and minerals after age 50 for many people in this category. If you have a strong digestive system, you aren’t taking any medications and have an excellent diet, Naturelo still could be a good fit for you.

      Reply
  85. Smel

    Hi,

    Im looking for multivitamin for my mother in law.
    She had stroke and was bedridden for 3years. She is on liquid diet.
    She is taking medicine for her cholesterol n diabetes.
    She cant talk but can nod her head or use eyes to express herself, but at sometimes she totally cant respond at all.
    Recently she went for exercise therapy.

    My concern is her skin condition. As it’s getting worse. And i was wondering if she is lack of any vitamins. I ask her doctor before. They said it ok to give her. But it will be an addition cost.
    Her Doctor said what she is having now is sufficient for her.

    But i don’t really trust, as i know they wont go the extra miles.

    Can you give me some advice. Thanks very much

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Smel,

      Since she is on a liquid diet, I would have your doctor review the Optimal Multivitamin Powder listed on this page.

      Reply
  86. Pauline

    I am 70 years old, female, and prefer liquid vitamins and supplements. I am taking three liquid supplements: a liquid multivitamin, a liquid D3, and a liquid B complex with B12. I Just started using the Country Life Multivitamin & Mineral Complex liquid supplement for my multivitamins and need to know if it is a good choice for seniors like me who are 70 and older. I have high blood pressure and take Amlodipine and Valsartan for it — also use Zioptan eye drops for glaucoma. Also take Biotin, collagen,
    and Vitamin C supplements in capsule and soft gel forms. BTW — your website is awesome! Thank you.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Pauline,

      Country Life Multivitamin & Mineral Complex liquid uses folic acid and cyanocobalamin, so it isn’t one I recommend. Take a look at Mary Ruth’s liquid multivitamin as a better choice. Also, C-Salts buffered vitamin C powder can be mixed with water if you are looking for a capsule alternative there.

      Thank you for the kind words!

      Reply
  87. Manas

    I have already submitted a comment today . What is the status?

    Reply
  88. melody

    What do you think of Garden of Life Multivitamin for Women – mykind Organic Women’s Once Daily Whole Food Vitamin Supplement, Vegan. During the last 25 days of starting these multi-vitamins I have had 3 Niacin flushes… Been taking an extra B-12 2500 mcg and an extra 1000 mg of Vitamin C…don’t know if I should be taking all this. Don’t know whether I should stop using this and buy another multivitamin. I am over 65. Any advise or suggestions welcome.

    Reply
  89. Lee

    Hi Alex, thank you very much for your sharing. Informative and very useful!!! Thank you! I would like to have your advice for my mum’s health condition. My mum is 69 years old with high blood pressure and severe varicose veins (with recurrent severe venous ulcer which takes years to recover). She is taking amlodipine 10mg since 1.5 years ago. Recently she starts taking Now Foods Multi-Food 1, Solgar Vitamin E 400iU, NOW Foods Sunflower Lecithin 1200mg (twice a day), fish oil 1000mg (twice a day), Country Life Calcium Magnesium Zinc, American Health Ester-C 1000 mg with Citrus Bioflavonoids (twice a day), Solgar Vitamin B6 25 mg, Country Life Action B-50, and MRM Veggie Elite Performance Protein Vanilla Bean powder. Are these supplements suitable for her? Could you please consult?

    How about Rainbow Light Just Once Men’s One Multivitamin for my 39 years old husband and Rainbow Light Nutri Stars Food-Based Multivitamin for my 7 years old girl and 2 years old son?

    looking forward to hearing from you. Highly gratitude for your help. Thank you!

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Lee,

      Here is an excerpt on high blood pressure from an article I wrote on heart health:

      Sugar, obesity, high coffee intake, inactivity, and stress will spike blood pressure. Low magnesium, low potassium levels and low vitamin D levels combined with a high sodium content will increase blood pressure. A recent study showed that increasing potassium-rich foods to 4.7 grams was equivalent to cutting out 4 grams of sodium in terms of reducing blood pressure. Interesting enough, amlodipine depletes potassium, highlighting the mechanism involved.
      Weight loss, cutting out sugar and excess carbs, exercise, stress relieving activities, pets, meditation, Qi Gong, magnesium, potassium, vitamin C, E, carotenoids and CoQ10 all regulate blood pressure.

      I don’t have as much experience with severe varicose veins, but I have seen vitamin E and resveratrol work. I can’t comment on whether or not the supplements are suitable for her because that would take a practitioner with more information about her health history, but I can comment on the quality.

      Now Foods Multi-Food: I would switch this one to Thorne Research Basic Nutrients due to the use of folic acid and cyanocobalamin.
      Solgar Vitamin E: This product is fine.
      Now Foods Sunflower Lecithin: Depends on what this is being used for.
      Fish Oil: Depends on the company, quality and EPA/DHA amounts.
      Country Life Calcium Magnesium Zinc: This is a poorly designed product with magnesium oxide (only 4% absorbed) and an amount of zinc, that with the multivitamin, are above the recommended safety levels.
      American Health Ester C: Choose a vitamin C product from this list: https://thehealthbeat.com/is-vitamin-c-the-most-important-vitamin-for-you/
      Solgar B6 25mg: Depends on why this much is being used.
      Country Life Action B-50: Combined with a multivitamin and Solgar B6, you could be getting to levels of B6 that are harmful over time.
      MRM Veggie Elite Performance Protein: This product seems fine.

      I would highly recommend seeing a practitioner to go over your mom’s program.

      Reply
      • Lee

        Hi Alex,
        Thank you very much for your kindly reply and advice. Appreciate much! My mum visited some practitioners before, but not much improvement could be seen.

        Reply
  90. Oleksandr

    Hi Alex,
    Thank you for such wonderful review.
    A lot of articles I have investigated on multivitamins, and have found One Daily Multivitamin for by NATURELO as option for my retiree parents. Can you please give your opinion this multivitamins based on the elements? Would appreciate your prompt feedback if it is worth to take them. Regards, Oleksandr

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Oleksandr,

      Naturelo’s multivitamin is actually my top choice for the best and worst multivitamin article found here. The O.N.E Multivitamin is #3 on this article. I would choose the O.N.E multivitamin over Naturelo because a large percentage of seniors require a stronger formulation. My opinion is that Naturelo is better designed for a younger demographic.

      Reply
  91. Sue Hammel

    Could you share your insight on Herbalife vitamins please?

    Reply
  92. Satina Pavia

    I am wondering which multi vitamin would be best for a 70 year old male, who WAS an alcoholic and drank everyday for over 50 years, yet has stopped. His liver and ammonia counts are high and he is on medication.He also is anemic. His doctor suggested a multivitamin plus Ferrol Sequel for additional iron. Income is minimal, so best priced help . (Hubbardston, Michigan)

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Satina,

      I would have your doctor review the Basic Nutrients by Thorne Research. It would be hard to find a more affordable option at a lower price.

      Reply
  93. Jan

    Alex, I value your opinion on supplements more than anyone else, so I need your opinion on bone support. I am taking Thorne’s Cal-Mag Citrate, but don’t like the taste and think I might br more consistent with something else. They also have Basic Bone Nutrients and Oacap…would one of these be just as good or better? I am 66 years old, have osteopenia, high blood pressure and am taking a chemo pill for the next couple of months.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Jan,

      The tricky part is combining the calcium/magnesium product with a multivitamin so you don’t get unnecessarily high amounts of certain nutrients. That is why I like calcium/magnesium products that only have those two ingredients. Take a look at Pure Encapsulations Calcium Magnesium (malate) 2:1.

      Reply
  94. Linda simpson

    Thanks,,,Great article. I do wonder why no mention of Garden Of Life multi for men and women over fifty. I am hanging on to these because of the whole foods base. Or am I wrong?? Always looking

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Linda,

      I’m not a fan of Garden of Life’s Vitamin Code supplements because they simply feed synthetic vitamins to yeast and market the product as if it is whole food. Their MyKind product is the only true whole food multivitamin of their line. However, the forms of certain minerals (zinc and iron) may be poorly absorbed in the forms they use in MyKind. This may be an issue for some who have higher requirements depending on their diet.

      Reply
  95. KL

    Great information! I’ve scoured this article and and submitted my 23andMe text to your genome/nutritional report. I am close to finalizing what I should get in the way of supplements. Can you please take a few minutes to look and advise. Please edit such as recommending brands, eliminating any redundancy plus anything unnecessary…..THANKS in advance for your time!

    My background:
    -Healthy 63 year old women, slim and active.
    -Hypothyroid condition but no thyroid antibodies
    -Struggling with a prolonged case of Epstein-Barr virus; last summer was 115, now 150+ high range.
    -Lowered my cholesterol and triglycerides to appropriate ranges and avoided statins through diet. Homocysteine, CPR – OK.
    -Borderline osteoporosis.

    My Gene analysis is apoe4/4 and so I need to be careful of saturated fat and proper B vitamins, correct?

    Here is my proposed supplement list:
    -Fermented cod liver oil green pasture or blue eyes.
    -Vitamin C with flavonoids by Thorne research.
    -Lion’s Mane by Host Defense or Fungi Perfecti.
    -Memory Pro by Pure Encapsulations. Serrapeptase.
    -CoQ10 by Thorne research.
    -Magnesium CitraMate 90s by Thorne.
    -Magnesium glycinate by Pure Encapsulations.
    -Shaklee Alfalfa for calcium.
    -VSL#3 and/or promultizyme complex
    -Plant-based protein by Pure Food.
    -CitraminII by Thorne research.
    -Ashwagandha by Pure Encapsulations or Gaia.
    -Coriolus Mushroom Science
    -L-Lysine
    -Turmeric Supreme.
    -Glucann
    -Garlic, and
    -Reservatrol

    Multivitamins:
    -Thorne Basic and also
    -Optimal multivitamin Powder for seniors

    Also:
    -Glutamate Scavenger (niacin),
    -olive oil leaf extract, and
    -Cats Claw.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi KL,

      I applaud your drive and attention to detail to customize your program. I hope the Nutrition Genome Report was able to give you deeper insight into what exactly your personal biochemistry needs to for optimal health.

      I can only advise based on the information you have provided since it would require knowledge of your family health history, current diet, and genetic results to really be precise. That would be more suited for a practitioner, but I will comment on what you have outlined here.

      1. Hypothyroid: Adrenal support if stress-induced. I’ve seen hypothyroidism and EBV come as a pair.

      2. Epstein Barre Virus (EBV): Chronic stress / overtraining often a culprit for the reactivation of the virus due to the suppression of the Th1 immune system. Check your glutathione genes. You may have a higher need for vitamin C. Plasma levels of vitamin C have a direct correlation with EBV. Ashwagandha can increase Th1 function and improve thyroid function.

      3. Borderline Osteoporosis: Maintaining healthy estrogen/progesterone levels are key here because there is a connection with estrogen, bones, memory and antioxidant protection. All are important for bones and brain health. The APOE 4/4 genotype has a better absorption of vitamin D and calcium, which is why estrogen and other trace minerals may be the bigger connection. Foods high in phytoestrogens are key for estrogen post-menopause, along with sufficient magnesium, zinc/copper balance, silicon, vitamin K1, K2, vitamin C, inositol, L-arginine and boron.

      Boron improves the VDR receptor gene function (check this on your report) and stabilizes and extends the half-life of vitamin D and estrogen. Approximately half the population in the United States consumes less than 1 mg of boron per day. Supplementation with 3 mg of boron per day for post-menopausal women has demonstrated improved calcium and magnesium retention by the kidneys. Prunes a great source of boron.

      4. APOE 4/4: Correct. You may have other genes that also confirm this. Saturated fat should be lower (I would avoid dairy fat). Check the “improves gene function” on the Nutrition Genome Report for everything that helps this genotype. Check your BDNF gene as well.

      My opinion of the top potential supplements based on the current information, but I recommend having your practitioner review this since they will have more comprehensive information.

      1. Polar Power Wild Salmon Oil or Nordic Naturals Fish Oil instead of Cod Liver Oil: This depends on your beta-carotene to vitamin A conversion from the BCMO1 gene. You may not need extra vitamin A, especially if vitamin D levels need to come up. The shift should be towards more vitamin D and less vitamin A for bone health, however, vitamin A has a role in the immune system.

      2. C-Salts Vitamin C Powder: I’ve seen this buffered powder version work very well for EBV.

      3. Alfalfa Leaf by Shaklee: Yes, excellent for bones and a good source of phytoestrogens.

      4. Magnesium CitraMate: Excellent version, especially for detoxing aluminum.

      5. Ashwagandha: Gaia for capsules or Herb Pharm for a liquid.

      6. Lion’s Mane: Yes. Mushroom Science and Fungi Perfecti are both great.

      7. Basic Nutrients 2 a Day by Thorne Research: This is probably a better fit.

      Reply
      • KL

        I SO admire and appreciate your intelligence, depth of knowledge, professionalism, and spirit which is so open and generous. Humble thanks. …when I run out of my current supplements in about a month, I will stock up from your site.

        Reply
  96. SH

    Thank you for your comparisons. Very helpful. What about Natures Way – Alive! Once Daily Women 50+. How does this compare?

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi SH,

      This formula uses folic acid and cyanocobalamin, which are forms of folate and B12 that I don’t recommend. Zinc oxide and magnesium oxide are also poorly absorbed, it does not contain K2, is missing mixed carotenoids and tocopherols, manganese is unusually high, and the blends are tremendously small and used for marketing purposes.

      Reply
  97. KL

    Here is some more input that I hope helps you and also myself in the process.

    First some FYI.

    1) I printed off the article on the multivitamins for seniors at a library expecting only about a 3 page print out. To my surprise I actually paid $80 as for the printout that included everyone’s comments. Then, I skimmed it all; a lot of good information. You’re helping lots of people.

    2) Regarding the nutrition genome report, thanks for asking about the BDNF. It’s a good example to use for my first personal criticism which can probably be easily corrected with more early instruction on how to use the report. I am TT or homozygous for bdnf – RS 6265. I don’t understand what TT is. In the how to read this report section, however, I understood what you meant by the normal heterozygous and homozygous symbolized by the abbreviations CC, CG, and GG.

    3) Other specific information such as the number 6265 that follows the RS is something else I don’t understand. I can gather very important points that I will use from here on out on a practical lifestyle basis such as eating cherries to help out with uric acid reduction, another DNA trait caution!

    4) In a nutshell, the report is a miraculous product priced reasonably for a person such as myself! Yep, lot of bang for the buck, indeed!

    Some more FYI about my health journey over the past year; could be typical for most:
    My traditional medical folks refused my request to do genetic testing stating they knew it my genetics were and I should go on a Statin (which was fixed by changing to veggies, fewer fruits and no sugar, grains, saturated red meat). They’ve been uncomfortable with natural thyroid medication but put me on Armor followed by Tirosint. I went to a integrative doc who at least tested me for the MTHFR Gene. I then turned to 23andMe before they put limits on what they test for! She also put me on naturethroid. Finally, I started seeing a functional doc who is a chiropractor and he did extensive medical testing to point out subtleties with my DNA such as a low risk for celiac. He is a big fan of eco-thyroid (heard of it?). He was the first to diagnose the Epstein-Barr but it and the hypothyroid have been getting worse ever since. Next stop, with a endo specialist at a nearby medical university. I am not complaining cuz I am thankful to everyone and what I’ve learned from each. I am still seeing all of these folks(!) and will share your info (a cross pollenator, I am.). I will get better. …. YOU are ahead of the game. Take care, please.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi KL,

      1. Yikes! That is a lot for a printout.

      2. TT for BDNF means that you are homozygous and may naturally have lower BDNF levels, requiring more strategies to increase BDNF for cognitive health. There are a lot of ways to increase BDNF.

      3. The rsID numbers like “rs6265” are how the genes are identified.

      4. Thank you! That feedback means a lot.

      I hope you are that much closer to getting answers and reaching your goals. I really wish you the best.

      Reply
  98. Jane Claud

    Wow, I’m so impressed with all this information! Thanks for maintaining this website!
    I’d appreciate your input please
    I’m a healthy 71 year old, moderately active. Very slight high blood pressure, almost restless legs, poor sleeper. 10 pounds or so,overweight. Feet hurt often, arthritis probably. Vision and hearing ok. Doc has suggested calcium in addition to multivitamin.
    My problem is that I don’t like taking large tablets, so I look for mini-tablets. I’ve been using rainbow light 50+ mini tablet, and I did see your comments on that. A friend has recommended Plexus XFactor plus, but I don’t see that you have evaluated that. It’s not small, but it is a smooth capsule. I did see your first choice for seniors is a powder but I honestly doubt I would mix that up regularly. So, any advice or suggestions? Again, many thanks

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Jane,

      Appreciate the feedback! I would ask your doctor about magnesium, which helps with blood pressure, restless leg and sleep. Take a look at this article here: https://thehealthbeat.com/how-have-we-become-so-magnesium-deficient/

      Plexus XFactor Plus is overpriced in my opinion, but it uses the correct forms of vitamins and minerals. If this capsule is easy for you to take, it would be a good option.

      Reply
  99. Carol

    Hi Alex
    I’m a 61 yr old female who is moderately active. Usually workout 3 times a week and have done many weightlifting competitions. Back in August I sustained a sternum fracture while doing parallel bar dips. My DEXA scan diagnosis was osteopenia in both hips and low back no spine fractures. I’m not on any medications and have taken multivitamins on and off for 20 years. Im planning on ordering Thorne 2 a day multi. My medical provider recommends a calcium/vit d supplement. I would appreciate your thoughts and recommendations for more bone support to go along with Thorne multi. I have enjoyed your articles, very thorough. I have gotten back to exercising using low weights. Thank you.

    Reply
  100. Barb A Dellesky

    What do you think of Nature’s Plus Ultra Hair..(contains biotin)… The bottle recommends 4 a day but I take one bc I also take fish oil, iron, D3, glucosamine & chondroitin complex, and calcium. I am a female, 72, healthy, walk my dog in the woods daily year round for an hour, no digestive problems or anything else….no heart, muscle aches, sleeping, blood pressure, you- name- it- problems. This has worked well for me for years. I am very much interested in your advise and yes, my family doctor & I are both in communication about this.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Barb,

      Glad to hear you are healthy! The Nature’s Plus Ultra Hair product is using the correct form folate, B6 ideally would be P-5-P instead of pyridoxine hydrochloride at a lower dose, and the B-vitamins as a whole would be better in a complete package (this is missing B12 and I didn’t see anything on your list that would contain B12). The dosages are also on the higher end, so I think a lower dose is wise. There is some research that high doses of B6 and biotin can be problematic. I think that 300-500mcg of biotin and 20-25mcg of B6 should be the upper range, which is what you would get with 1 capsule.

      Reply
  101. miford gableton

    how much commission do you receive recommending these very expensive products? Most seniors cannot afford $40/month for meat, much less food supplements.

    Be honest and be fair to those that have less money but also want good senior health.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Miford,

      The Health Beat gets paid on purchases made through Amazon links, which are paid by Amazon at no cost to the reader. For the health and wellness category, the commission is typically 4.5% from Amazon for the purchase (if you go back and buy again, we do not get credit), which comes out to $1.35 for a $30 product. It is not much and helps cover the cost of running the site along with a little of my time answering questions. I like this type of system because it allows people access to research and my expertise for free, saves people time trying to sort through the thousands of options, while also helping compensate some of my time.

      All of our recommendations are independent reviews and are not influenced by any companies. We do not sell our own supplements. This allows us to give honest research and advice. We always try and find the highest quality products with a range of affordable options based on the need. For example, the Thorne Basic Nutrients 2 a day is $27.99 for a month supply. However, it is also a stronger product, which means many could take 1 a day, stretch it to 2 months, costing $13.99 a month. This beats even the cheapest, poorly made multivitamin.

      Reply
  102. Leonard Simpson

    I am a 61 year male looking for a multivitamin that does not contain folic acid. I have been looking at Optimal Multivitamin Powder, Pure O.N.E., New Chapter 55+ and Nature Way Alive. Pure One is missing K2, B12, and iron.

    Which of these would you recommend and why.

    Thanks.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Leonard,

      I think out of those options, the Optimal Multivitamin Powder is the best choice. Pure O.N.E is missing K1 and K2 (I believe it is designed this way for those who are taking blood thinners), but it is not missing B12. Iron is typically not included in men’s formulations. New Chapter isn’t a company I’m impressed with due to their use of feeding synthetics to yeast and claiming superior absorption without any clinical, peer-reviewed evidence. Nature Way Alive uses folic acid, and therefore should be avoided.

      Reply
  103. Girish

    Please suggest the best multivitamin supplement for a 72 year Type 2 Diabetic. Any brand which includes Ginseng, if you consider it is also an essential supplement. I am an Indian national.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Girish,

      Any of the options listed in this article are suitable for those with diabetes. The increased need for certain nutrients that benefit diabetes points towards the Optimal Multivitamin Powder as one of the best choices.

      In regards to ginseng, you are best getting this as a separate supplement so you can get the right dosage for you. If it is included in a multivitamin, it is likely too small to make a noticeable difference.

      Reply
  104. Datdamwuf

    Hello Alex, not sure you monitor the comments. I’m impressed with your info and the excellent citations. If you do look, I have a question. I’ve been taking Pure Encapsulations multivitamin 950 w/out iron for years. But now I cannot swallow pills and have not been able to find any LIQUID vitamin comparable to it. Trying hard not to have to buy 10 different liquid supplements to replace what used to be one. Right now I’m swallowing the powder without the capsule which is not so great! Do you have any recommendations? Thanks for any help!

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Datdamwuf,

      Have you considered multivitamin powders that taste much better like Optimal Multivitamin Powder by Seeking Health? Liquids are fine for minerals, but you are going to find stability issues with vitamins in liquid.

      Reply
      • Datdamwuf

        Thanks for the answer Alex. However, that contains iron. I have a rare disease that is activated by iron supplements and iron rich foods, so I have to be careful how much I eat. It’s frustrating but with the major health issues I’m having I do not want the disease to flare up. It at least has stayed under control for several years! I’m so dam tired of researching medical issues and trying to find options for vitamins/minerals, but, I am vastly under weight with appetite issues. Any other ideas are welcome, maybe I’m expecting too much trying to find one multi.

        Reply
        • Alex Swanson M.S.

          Hi Datdamwuf,

          Ah, yes, ok thank you for that information. I do wish they would remove the 5mg of iron. That seems unnecessary in the formula in that it isn’t enough to make any difference for someone who needs it, and it prevents people who want to avoid iron from using it.

          Not to worry, there is always a solution. I think finding the right powder mix is going to be your best bet. Take a look at the Life Extension Mix Powder, which does not have iron. Life Extension typically makes very strong formulas FYI, so you may want to adjust the dosing. You will have to check – and turn your head to the side to read the labels since they uploaded them sideways – if you are okay with the additional ingredients beyond the vitamins and minerals.

          Reply
  105. Aggie

    Hi Alex—
    my husband is 60 and is an avid/active athlete and a high performer. I’ve read about those vitamins and about these but can’t find his situation.
    He’s not supposed to have copper, has mthfr, a vestibular problem that is supposed to require a low dose of ssri (or snri) but we can’t seem to get it right, also takes a vitamin E/fish oil/ flaxseed oil for his eyes so needs a lower E %, has high blood calcium (but sometimes takes tums because of stomach pain).
    He isn’t taking any vitamin or supplement now and I think that might help him feel better. Do you have any thoughts that might help us?

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Aggie,

      I would be happy to help. I think your husband would qualify for the Best Multivitamins for Executives and Athletes article. Click here, and scroll down to the Pure Encapsulations Longevity Nutrients. This formula does not have copper, can take the place of a vitamin E supplement, contains lutein and zeaxanthin for the eyes, K2 as MK-7 to direct calcium to where it is supposed to go (I would also ask your practitioner about taking extra magnesium, which is a natural calcium blocker and is in high need for athletes) and methylfolate for MTHFR variant requirements.

      Reply
      • Aggie

        Alex,
        Okay! Thank you! I’ll let you know if we have an improvement
        blessings,
        a

        Reply
  106. Angie Pang

    Hello Alex, I am so happy I found you. I’m 55 yrs. young, had my gallbladder removed a month ago and take a low dose blood pressure medication. I read thru the recommended multivitamins/minerals list, but not sure which is best for me. For some reason I am drawn to the youngevity multivitamin\mineral. It seems to have much of what I want in a vitamin. I would appreciate your thoughts on their product and your recommendation for me. Thx you so much for your time!

    Reply
  107. Tara

    Hi Alex, Your research has been very insightful for me as search for the right vitamins and supplement for my mom. She is 74 yrs old and is taking Carbidopa-Levodopa to treat her Parkinson’s Disease but unfortunately, it isn’t relieving the symptoms. I have been doing some research and came across some studies that say to avoid Vitamin B-6 and high protein because they make it harder to absorb the Levodopa. She is also in early stages of osteoporosis and has high blood pressure. What multivitamin would suggest for her while she is being treated for these diseases?

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Tara,

      I’m glad the research has been useful and I’m sorry to hear about your mom. You are correct that B6 and high protein can affect Levodopa absorption. It may be better to use a multi-mineral taken at different times than the medication like Biomins (with copper and iron) or Biomins II (no copper or iron) since these will not contain B6. Copper or iron levels that are too high or too low can be problematic with the central nervous system, so I would recommend having these levels tested first before choosing one.

      Early stages of osteoporosis and high blood pressure have been linked to very low estrogen levels. Estrogen functions as an antioxidant, and in this model, oxidative stress and the loss of protection from estrogen is what leads to bone loss and high blood pressure. Estrogen may also protect dopaminergic neurons, and in Parkinson’s disease, it is the degeneration of these neurons and subsequent depletion of dopamine in the striatum that causes the symptoms. Estrogen protects these neurons and boosts dopamine levels. If you haven’t already, I would recommend talking to your doctor about phytoestrogen intake and perhaps estrogen therapy as a potential approach. Here is a recent study that came out exploring this approach.

      Reply
  108. Barbara

    What is your evaluation of Nutreince powdered multi-vitamin by the Calton’s? They claim to have designed it to separate out vitamins & minerals that may compete with each –and therefore block absorption of micronutrients– into 2 different dose formulas, one for AM & one for PM. Also they say they eliminate fillers and other products that may block absorption of micro-nutrients. Thank you!

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Barbara,

      The Calton Nutrition multi-vitamin looks like a solid choice. If you are choosing any of the flavored options, I would get some clarity on what is used for the natural flavors because those can sometimes contain MSG.

      Reply
  109. Ruben

    Hi Alex,

    I am considering to take vitamin C and E or multivitamin. Should i go for multivitamin? I am now in my 50’s and putting on some unnecessary fat in my midsection (bellyfat) and i am looking into this product “TestBoost”. Any advice

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Ruben,

      I would choose a multivitamin over just taking vitamin C and E. Vitamin E is often dosed very high when isolated and can be inflammatory in some people.

      In regards to TestBoost and testosterone, I would first read my article How to Increase Testosterone Naturally: Why You Don’t Need Steroids. The product doesn’t look bad, but you want to make some foundational changes first to get the most benefits.

      Reply
  110. Ronni G.

    Hi I have a question regarding Vitamin C supplements what brand do you recommend to a person in their late 70’s and what dosage is best for them right now they are taking Garden of Life Vitamin C – Vitamin Code Raw C 500mg is that safe for them to take? Is it true that older adults 70+ should be taking kids supplements instead of regular adult supplements?

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Ronni,

      Here is a list of vitamin C recommendations.

      Vitamin C dosages will depend on numerous factors, which I outline in that linked article. A majority of studies show the most benefit above 500mg.

      I’m not sure who is saying that adults 70+ should be taking kids supplements, but I would disagree. Due to lower absorption rates, certain health conditions and medications that delete numerous vitamins and minerals, I would argue that many in the older demographic require stronger formulas.

      Reply
      • Ronni

        even if the person is diabetic can they still take the same vitamin C supplement?

        Reply
        • Alex Swanson M.S.

          Hi Ronni,

          Whether vitamin C is whole-food based or L-ascorbic acid, this doesn’t change the recommendation regarding diabetes. I would run any product or dosage by your doctor first.

          Reply
  111. TOMMY-MARIE

    HELLO, THANK-YOU FOR TAKING THE TIME TO RESEARCH AND RECORD YOUR FINDINGS. I HAVE READ SEVERAL OTHER PEOPLE’S ARTICLE’S BUT I FIND YOURS VERY THOROUGH, WITH GREAT EXPLANATIONS.

    I’M TRYING TO START A HEALTHIER LIFESTYLE (a little late im 56 years ?.

    ABOUT 25 YEAR’S AGE I HAD A COPY OF “EARL MINDELL’S” – VITAMIN AND MINERAL BOOK;IT GAVE GREAT ADVISE ON VARIOUS VITAMINS AND MINERALS FOR DIFFERENT TYPES OF PEOPLE (GRAVE-YARD SHIP WORKER’S,DESK WORKER’S,ATHLETES,COCAINE WITHDRAWL,ALCOHOLICS,ETC…).

    MY CONCERNS AND NEEDS:

    1)A DAILY HIGH POTENCY VITAMIN.
    2)A DAILY HIGH POTENCY MINERAL.
    3)SOMETHING THAT WOULD HELP WITH MY MEMORY AND NERVES.
    4)SOMETHING TO HELP WITH MILD ARTHRITIS AND OCCASIONAL BACK AND NECK ACHE (DECADES OF GYMNASTIC’S AND SOME BROKEN BONE’S ?
    5)VISION.

    HYPOTHETICALLY: ) WHAT WOULD YOU SUGGEST/RECOMMEND (PLEASE HELP ME WITH THE BEST BRANDS OF WHAT I MIGHT NEED), FOR A HYPERACTIVE/ADD- 57 YEAR OLD MENOPAUSAL WOMEN WHO WAS DIAGNOSED WITH CHRONIC HEP. C WITH MILD TO MODERATE CHIRROIS (GENO 4-PREDOMINATELY IN EGYPT;PER LIVER BIOPSY IN 2004) WHO OPTED OUT OF ALL TREATMENT AS OF (03-18-2020/WED).

    I WILL BE THOROUGHLY RESEARCHING ALL OF THE CURRENT TREATMENTS AVAILABLE NOW AS I DID THE: 2004 YEAR – 48 WEEK TREATMENT WHICH I OPTED-OUT (DUE TO MY RESEARCH).

    MOVING ALONG … ? I AM 57 YEAR’S OLD WITH CHRONIC HEP C AND DEBILITATING PANIC ATTACKS FOR WHICH I WAS PRESCRIBED (BY A BOARD CERTIFIED DOCTOR OF PSYCIATRY) XANAX FOR 24 YEAR’S. LOWEST DOSE 3 MILLIGRAMS DAILY, WHICH ENDED UP BEING 5.5 MILLIGRAMS DAILY.

    I HAVE FINALLY DECIDED THAT I HAVE TO GET OFF OF THE XANAX AS IT IS AFFECTING MY OVER-ALL-HEALTH AND MEMORY. THE RESEARCH I’VE BEEN DOING TO GET HEALTHIER HAS SHOWED HOW ADDICTIVE AND HOW HARD IT IS TO WITHDRAWAL OFF OF THIS BENZODIAZAPEN . BUT I AM DOWN TO 3.5 MILLIGRAMS DAILY AND CONTINUE TO TAPER OFF A QUARTER EVERY TWO MONTHS (MY NEW PSYCHIATRIST IS WONDERFUL;SHE’S HELPING TO MAKE THIS WEANING DOWN AS COMFORTABLE AS YOU CAN POSSIBLE MAKE IT WITHOUT ADDING ANY OTHER PRESCRIPTION’S).

    SO WHAT: VITAMINS, MINERALS, HERBS WOULD YOU SUGGEST TO A 57 YEAR OLD WOMEN (THINK OF ME AS YOUR SISTER ? WHO EXCERSIES REGUERLY, EAT’S CLEAN NON-GMO FOOD (AS BEST AS POSSIBLE),AND HAS NO OTHER MEDICAL CONDITION’S(I DO HAVE OPTIC NEURITIS IN MY LEFT EYE.ANNUALLY MONITORED BY MY DOCTOR-NO CRITERIA FOR M.S.)?

    I WANT TO LIVE AND BE AS PRODUCTIVE AS POSSIBLE EVERY DAY OF MY LIFE. BUT I DO HAVE TO BUY MY FOODS IN A LOCAL GROCERY STORE AND AS I GREW UP ON A FARM, I KNOW THE FOOD’S WE BUY TODAY DO NOT PROVIDE THE VITAMINS AND MINERALS THAT WE USED TO GET OUT OF OUR GARDEN;AS WELL AS THE OLD MEDICINAL REMEDY’S WE TOOK FOR VARIOUS ALIGNMENTS.

    ONLY MEDICINE’S I TAKE ARE 3.5 MILLIGRAMS XANAX DAILY AND 30 MILLIGRAMS OF PAXIL AND OCCASIONALLY AN ALLERGY TABLET DURING POLLINATION PEAK PERIOD .I DON’T DRINK ALCOHOL . I,M EMBARRESSED TO SAY.BUT, I SMOKE ABOUT 1 PACK OF “NATURAL TOBACCO AND WATER” CIGARETTES A DAY (NERVES ?
    THANK-YOU SO VERY MUCH IN ADVANCE IF YOU DECIDE TO RESPOND. I UNDERSTAND YOU ARE NOT A DOCTOR AND THIS IS NOT MEDICAL ADVISE YOUR GIVING ME.

    HAVE A WONDERFUL HEALTHY, BLESSED DAY.

    TOMMY-MARIE. 03-18-2020/WED. (CORONA VIRUS 19 CRISIS).

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Tommy-Marie,

      I applaud you for making the change towards a healthier lifestyle! I may not be able to comment on everything listed here, but I’ll give you some recommendations for the highlights.

      1. Multivitamin/multimineral and smoking: Supplemental beta-carotene has been linked to an increase in lung cancer in smokers, so you want to choose a multivitamin without beta-carotene. Prothrivers is one of the only high-quality multivitamins I have been able to find that also does not contain beta-carotene.

      2. Memory and Nerves: There is a wide net of causes and solutions here. Based on the fact that Xanax has worked for you for panic attacks, it shows there is an imbalance of glutamate (excitatory) and GABA (calming). B6, choline, and magnesium are the major nutrients that help this balance. Nicotine imitates acetylcholine, which gives a calming effect on the brain. This means foods high in choline or choline supplementation may give you a similar calming effect. Choline also improves memory.

      3. Mild Arthritis, Back and Neck Pain: This one is harder since it is due to injuries. Something that may help is collagen protein.

      Reply
  112. Cecilia Goldman

    Hi Alex ,
    I am so glad I found your webside .I am looking for a multi vitamin and mineral for my Husband.He is 89y.o.,with heart condition,Hipertension,Colon Ca eradicated with surgery,and bladder Ca.He has been anemic on and off for years,but after the colon surgery in May /2019 he lost 10 lbs ,even when he eats very well,he goes fron 136to 138 and down.Has lost muscle mass.He takes blood thinner Eliquis 2.5mg 2/dayafter an atrial fib episode in Feb,/2020.took plavix afterCVA 2 1/2 yrs ago .the Dr gives him iron,but the last test was 35.I give him a protein Organic whey from garden of life.I am looking for a minute lit vitamin and mineral because he complains to be tired all the time,also he was Dx with mild dementia due to the CVA which left cerebral isquemia.I sow the one recommended for you by Thorne,but I did not find the same one you said is #one for older adults.
    I will appreciate your advise,
    Thank you !!!

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson M.S.

      Hi Cecilia,

      I’m so sorry to hear your husband is struggling. The #1 ranking has changed over the years, and currently, I think that the Thorne Basic Nutrients 2 a day is the best formulation for the cost for seniors. I would ask your doctor first if this is the right fit with his medications.

      Reply
  113. Jeff

    OMG, after reading several issues about multi vitamins, yours is ‘hands down’ the best. Thank you so much, this is so informative, just what I needed. Please consider making one of these for cancer patients. I have leukemia and am constantly searching how to stay healthy while on treatment (imatinib). Thanks again, your article means a lot to me and I’ve already shared it liberally. Best wishes to you.

    Reply
  114. Catherine

    Hi Alex,
    Thank you so much for all of your awesome articles! I was looking at your recommendations for my mom, who is 79 years old. We bought the recommended Primitive Scientific 2/Day Essentials for her multi. Should she supplement with more Vitamin D3? I believe this only has 50 mcg from wild-harvested Lichen. Thank you for your feedback.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hi Catherine,

      Of course, thank you for commenting! Additional supplementation of vitamin D is dependent on your mom’s current vitamin D levels. It is worth getting her a vitamin D test to see if she is low first, and then based on the current level, her health practitioner can suggest the best dosage.

      Reply
  115. Michelle

    Senior men and women require different vitamins and minerals in their multi vitamins. Some of the multi vitamins you recommend for seniors don’t differentiate. Please explain.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hi Michelle,

      There are a lot of factors that go into vitamin and mineral requirements including the current diet, genetics, health disorders, digestive issues, stress, exercise, and age/sex. Senior formulas will generally be stronger. Multivitamins are there to give a foundation of vitamins and minerals to cast the widest net for the population as a whole, and the differentiating factors may come in the blends based on age or sex. From there, you can add on specific nutrients you may need more of to combine with the multivitamin if necessary. For example, calcium and magnesium are common additions to a multivitamin for those focusing more on bone health.

      Reply
  116. Kim Udell

    Hello! I have been looking at your suggestions for vitamins for adults and seniors. I am interested in the Primitive Scientific formula. I have had a recent diagnosis of osteoporosis and am wondering if this is a good choice. I am a little confused about the beta carotene and D salina (which I understand to be good for osteoporosis) but then it says retinyl palmitate which is not good for osteoporosis. If you could clear this up for me as well as your suggestion for a good multi for someone with my current health need. Thank you so much!

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hi Kim,

      Beta carotene is converted to vitamin A in the body at varying rates depending on genetics and health status. Retinyl palmitate is preformed vitamin A. Vitamin A, D and K2 are all dependent on each other. Too much vitamin A pushes vitamin D levels lower, while too much vitamin D pushes down vitamin A. In the studies that show issues with vitamin A (diet or supplements) and osteoporosis, it is due to high doses of vitamin A. I did research on this in an article titled The Best Calcium, Magnesium, Vitamin D, and K2 Supplements. The connection was strong with dairy fortified with vitamin A. The amount in the Primitive Scientific is low and in the right ratio to the vitamin D and K2 levels for bone health. This is a good formulation for your health goal because it also includes boron, but you would want to increase calcium and magnesium.

      Reply
  117. Kim Udell

    Thank you SO much for your informative response! I read the article you suggested on The Best Calcium where you refer to the Swedish and preformed vitamin A that was detrimental to bone health. I want to feel confident in taking the primitive scientific vitamins when they contain this type of vitamin A. I appreciate the thought out researched articles you provide. Lastly can I take one of the formulas you suggest in The Best Calcium article in conjunction with the primitive scientific multi?Thank you again!!

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hi Kim,

      Of course! I would recommend taking one that doesn’t double up other vitamins or minerals that are already in the multivitamin you take. If you choose to use the Primitive Scientific formula, then the Pure Encapsulations 1:1 would be a good companion.

      Reply
  118. janice

    what have you heard about mettalluca over 50 life pack

    Reply
  119. Dennis Ruby

    I am not new to supplements, I took a multiple Vitamin for years in my sixties. But I am now in my seventies and am having some weight loss that I think is due to nutrition. I am looking for a multiple Vitamin that can help, that also counters some of the loss my body experiances from Medications I take. It is a bit overwhelming trying to navagate all the information. Is there a good source of information that could help me sort through this. Your information above was helpful, and I wish my doctor whom I see twice a year could help. Unfortunately his advice is take a multi Vitamin. No advice on what would be best. I even asked for blood work to see what I may be deficient in and got the same answer. Any advice would be helpful. Thanks!

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hi Dennis,

      Do you know which depletions are occurring from your medications? Any other issues besides weight loss that might be related to nutrition? I can help you navigate this to find the right one.

      Reply
      • Dennis Ruby

        Thanks for the response Alex. The only other deplection I suspect is B-12 from the acid reflux medication pantoprazole 40 mg EC that I take. I also take clonazePAM 0.5 mg for anxiety once a day & from the research I see can cause some deplections. The only other health issue is blood pressure medications amLODIPine 10 mg & olmesartan 40 mg. I also take a statin atorvastatin 20 mg. Like I said I am trying to curb the weight loss issue as well as take a Multi Vitamin for maintenance due to my age 72 years old. Does that answer any of your questions or do you need more information.

        Reply
        • Alex Swanson

          Hi Dennis,

          Thanks for the information. My PhytoVest software is almost complete, which would tell you exactly what is being depleted, and then analyzes your diet and supplementation intake to help determine what and how much you need.

          Based on those medications, you are potentially depleting B12, calcium, potassium, CoQ10, melatonin, folate, calcium, vitamin D, vitamin K2, selenium and vitamin E. I pulled all this from my software. You are going to want a stronger multivitamin and avoid most herbs that could potentially interact with your medications. I would suggest asking your doctor if Thorne Basic Nutrients would be a good fit for your requirements and would be compatible with your medications. I would also ask if Pure Encapsulations CoQ10 would be recommended for you.

          Let me know if you have any other questions!

          Reply
          • Dennis Ruby

            Alex, thanks for the info. you mentioned in the first paragraph that your PhytoVest software was almost complete. Did you get a final result on what is being depleted ?

          • Alex Swanson

            Hi Dennis,

            Those are the potential depletions based on the literature. The dosage of the medication, supplements and dietary habits will determine if you are in a suboptimal status. What I’m waiting on for with the software to be completed is related to PDF formatting so people can use it.

  120. Dawn

    Hi Alex,
    Can you suggest a shelf-stable probiotic for my 90 y/o father in assisted living? I want to make his supplements as simple and easy as possible for the staff to remember and administer.

    Loved this article!

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hi Dawn,

      Happy to hear the article was helpful! Does your dad need anything specific related to a probiotic and his health? I wrote an article on the best probiotics and how to choose based on the strains here: https://thehealthbeat.com/best-and-worst-probiotics/

      Reply
  121. DK

    hello, I am going to save this link to the research you have given us . I just ordered for my mom who is on Eliquis and heart medicines…Pure Encapsulations O.N.E. Multivitamin | Once Daily Multivitamin with Antioxidant Complex Metafolin, CoQ10, and Lutein to Support Vision, Cognitive Function, and Cellular Health* You mention it was good choice. She has had ruptured colon, 3 operations…and now reversed colon operation..after 9 months of suffering…but she got MRSA from last OP..and is now on Blood thinners but told to use multi vitamin. Her PCP told her to use the Septrum…which is first on your list not to use. lol. so glad i decided to look into this. My mom has a lot of pills to swallow_hard on her tummy …do you have any chewable s that you can suggest that are not TOO high in sugar?
    appreciate any help you may have.
    I also, need one…and also am on Blood-thinners due to DVT due to bad knee op. I seem to get reoccurring Diverticulitis.so anything that can help with this..i appreciate.
    thank you
    dk

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hi DK,

      You will want a chewable without vitamin K due to the blood thinners. These are hard to find. Your best chance will probably be a children’s multivitamin and just dosing appropriately. The only difference most of the time is the dosage when looking at children vs. adult versions. I would have your doctor review Hiya (2 tablets instead of the 1 tablet dose, sweetened with monk fruit) and Pure Encapsulations PurePals for a stronger formulation. The PurePals multi uses xylitol, so you will want to make sure your mom isn’t sensitive to xylitol.

      Are you also looking for a chewable version? If so, consider the PurePals without iron.

      Reply
  122. Slawomir

    Hello
    Wonderful, very informative article, thank you. Naturelo Whole Food Multivitamin for Men50+, what is your opinion about the multivitamin itself and the company? It is GMP certified.
    Thank you

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hi Slawomir,

      Thank you! I think Naturelo has many good products at a reasonable cost. The founder of Naturelo reached out to me in the earlier days of the company for consulting with their formulations before they were purchased by a new company. So I was able to see the sourcing and testing done, and they were mindful of quality. Some of their products are listed in other articles on this site.

      Reply
  123. Gina

    Hello,

    I’m giving my 89 year old mother, Lions Mane, Bacopa Monnieri and now pure virgin coconut oil. Her memory is getting worse of course to be expected for an 89 year old. Is this overkill? Also what multi vitamin would you recommend for her? I’ve given her Vitamins B, C, D3 and more…. all individual supplements. She continues to have sinus problems and was given prescription claritin but doesn’t seem to be working. Do you think this is a low immunity issue? Her prescriptions are Duloxetine (generic Cymbalta), Gleevec, she’s in remission so Dr took her off of it recently. Isosorbide, she had a heart attack in 2002, but she’s had all tests done on her heart recently…everything is good. And trazadone for sleep, I only give her a half can’t remember the dosage. I despise her being on this because she broke her hip last year and I think it contributed to her tripping over a scatter rug. I think she might of been groggy or had a hangover from it. Tried giving her melatonin, but she couldn’t sleep with that. I am anxiously awaiting your reply. Thank you!!

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hi Gina,

      I’m sorry to hear about your mom. In answer to your first question, no, I don’t think that is overkill. In regards to a multivitamin, the Thorne Basic Nutrients is typically a good one to review with the doctor when medications are involved. This will cover all of the foundational nutrients without a lot of pills.

      It’s hard to know for sure what is causing the sinus issues with limited information. It could be environmental allergies, histamine/hormone issues, poor immunity, or a side effect of medications. I would check with the pharmacist if any of her medications could be contributing to her sinus issues, which seems possible.

      Reply
  124. Gaynell

    What are your thoughts about DoubleX? It claims to have natural ingredients such as you mentioned in the other vitamin suppliments.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hi Gaynell,

      Are you referring to the Nutrilite™ Double X™ Vitamin/Mineral/Phytonutrient Supplement?

      This formula uses poorly absorbed forms, which are the cheapest vitamins and minerals for a formulation. This includes folic acid (synthetic, methylfolate is the food form), cyanocobalamin (cheap form with potential issues, methylcobolamin is superior), magnesium oxide (only 4% is absorbed), and zinc oxide (poorly absorbed). The other ingredients section includes soybean oil, soy protein concentrate, sucrose, corn starch and others that are unnecessary, and not something I would want to take every day.

      Reply
  125. Athena Masters

    Question: I have osteopenia. I there any natural substance that would help with this? Thank you so much. Athena Masters

    Reply
  126. Jill Mendez

    Hi,

    Great information.

    I am over70 and have osteopenia. Had a very small 100% estrogen pos. breast cancer with no post surgery treatment. I have joint pain. I have hypothyroid issues and take Armor Thyroid.

    I only take 400mg NOW of mixed magnesium and 5000 IU’s of NOW Vit, D3. I am very fatigued probably due to my thyroid problems and poor diet.

    What would you recommend as a vitamin supplement.

    Thank you.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hi Jill,

      Are you looking for which multivitamin to take, or specific supplements for osteopenia, joint or thyroid health?

      Reply
      • Jill Mendez

        Hi,

        I do not have osteopenia, just old people’s joint pain. 🙂 I do have hypothyroid.

        I do not take any vitamins other than vitamin D3 and a mixed magnesium supplement. I do have a sensitive stomach.

        I am just wondering if I should be taking vitamins, lots of controversy on multi vitamins. What would U recommend?

        Thanks,

        Reply
        • Alex Swanson

          Hi Jill,

          The first step to take is definitely improving your diet. Supplements can’t take the place of good food; they just fill in the gaps for what is either low in the food or you are not getting enough of due to the choice or limitations of your diet. If you have a sensitive stomach, swallowing more pills will not likely go well and you will do better with powder or liquid versions. But I would say for now I would hold off taking anything new until you start noticing improvements from dietary changes. For example, with a sensitive stomach, joint pain and thyroid issues, you may find that wheat/gluten has been a source of inflammation and without it you have more energy and less inflammation. Or perhaps there are other food sensitivities contributing to the problem. There are many foods for breast health that can be beneficial to start including. It would be worth it to see a nutritionist in your area to get a plan together so you can start seeing results.

          Reply
      • Jan

        Alex, what do you think about PatchMD vitamin patches. I have used these in the past because I don’t like swallowing pills. I have used Multivitamin, B12 Plus, Vitamin D3/K2, CoQ10 Plus, Tri-Mag and many more. I don’t know if this is important, but I am a non secretor. Wondering if patches actually work but there are many good reviews. Thanks!

        Reply
        • Alex Swanson

          Hi Jan,

          Yes, you will want to use either sublingual or vitamin patches to ensure you are getting what you need. I have also heard good things about PatchMD and it is worth trying. Yes, a good diet and exercise plan will help you get your pre-diabetic numbers and cholesterol (remember to test oxidized LDL and C-reactive protein which gives you a better indication than overall cholesterol numbers) in the right range. I hope this helps!

          Reply
  127. april l freedman

    what do you think of dr, mercola’s multivitamin for women

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hi April,

      This multivitamin would be in the “high dose” category due to the high levels of B12, folate, biotin, vitamin D, vitamin E, and selenium. This isn’t one I would recommend unless you have issues with general absorption, you are taking medications that deplete any of this micronutrients, or you have testing showing low levels.

      Reply
      • april l freedman

        thank you so much–just ordered thorne basic nutrients–primitive scientific has been out of stock for awhile now.

        Reply
  128. Dylan

    Hey, I was wondering what u thought about naturelo? I thought they used to be number one or two

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hi Dylan,

      Naturelo was purchased by a new company and some changes were made in the formula that I disagree with. They are still ranked on other multivitamin articles, but these are currently the best senior multivitamins.

      Reply
  129. Brian

    Alex, Thanks so much for the invaluable information. Sixty year old active male with occasional GI issues. Run (finished a few marathons), lift weights, and stretch six days per week. Currently take Nature’s Way Alive! Men’s 50+ Ultra Potency multivitamins. Your thoughts on this multi? Would like to find a quality daily multivitamin to supplement my diet. Any other supplement suggestions beyond the multivitamins are greatly appreciated.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hi Brian,

      The Nature’s Way Alive Men’s 50+ uses cheaper and poorly absorbed forms of certain vitamins and minerals. For example, B6 as pyridoxine hydrochloride has to be converted in the liver, which is why they add more to the formula. You want the P-5-P form. Anytime you see oxide forms, that means poor absorption. This formula uses magnesium oxide (only 4% absorbed) and zinc oxide, which are two very important minerals for healthy testosterone levels as you age, as well as immune function and physical performance. You want magnesium malate or citrate, and zinc bisglycinate. Folate as folic acid is a synthetic inferior form. You want methylfolate or folinic acid.

      For supplement suggestions beyond multivitamins, this really depends on many factors including current health issues, blood work, and your diet so that you can really target what is necessary and what is not. You mentioned GI issues, but this also depends on the type of GI issue and what would be the most help. I’m happy to answer any further questions to help you narrow down what you may need.

      Reply
  130. Lance Thomas

    Hey Alex! I notice all the multis here are pill form. I wish there were an option for drops or powder. (male, 55yo zero precond.)

    Been commenting here for years. Great work!

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hi Lance,

      Appreciate you coming back over the years! Any of the multivitamins that use vegetable capsules can be opened and added to any liquid. I only know of a few liquid or powder multivitamins that I would put in the “ok” category, but they wouldn’t be my first choice. If you would prefer not to have to open the capsules, let me know and I’ll share some possibilities.

      Reply
  131. Richard Taffel

    Hi. Would you please evaluate Dr. Furhman’s MVI for Men?
    Thanks so very much!

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hi Richard,

      The design of this multivitamin appears to be centered around prostate health and those at a higher risk of prostate cancer. What I am interpreting is that they are omitting vitamins and minerals that were found to increase the risk of prostate cancer at high doses like vitamin E and selenium. They state that the formula “supplies the essential nutrients that are missing or insufficient even in healthy diets, while avoiding harmful ingredients, like vitamin A and folic acid, which is linked to increased risk of cancer.” They are correct about folic acid, however, they don’t include a food form of folate like methylfolate, which is protective. They also omitted B6, which has been found to be low in diets and and is protective against prostate cancer. The dose of B12 is high compared to the rest of the formula, which isn’t something I agree with taking unless someone has clinically low levels of B12, poor absorption or is taking a medication that depletes B12.

      Regarding vitamin E and selenium, my opinion has always been that high doses of vitamin E are a bad idea. We are in agreement there. For selenium, a high dose of 200mcg was used in the 10 year prostate cancer study. It was those who already had high selenium levels that had an increased risk of prostate cancer with selenium supplementation, but not those who had low levels of selenium. It’s not that selenium supplementation increases the risk of prostate cancer; it’s that the dose makes the poison for the individual. I like to be conservative with selenium supplementation doses and very rarely would recommend the 200mcg dose.

      The magnesium included is too low, and I don’t like the aspartate forms of minerals because they can be excitatory. When glutamic acid or aspartic acid are not protein bound, it raises levels of glutamate and aspartate in the body. People sensitive to these forms include those with anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, IBS, epilepsy, and others.

      My opinion is that if you want to use this formulation, take a look at your dietary intake for folate, B6, and selenium. I offer this for free with the PhytoVest dietary analysis, which you can also customize for prostate health.

      Reply
  132. Pauline

    What are your thoughts on Primal Harvest? Thank you.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hi Pauline,

      This formula uses many cheap and poorly absorbed versions of certain vitamins and minerals. It uses synthetic folic acid, zinc oxide (poorly absorbed), B6 as pyridoxine HCL (should be P-5-P), selenium is higher than I prefer, an unnecessarily high dose of biotin, and is missing K2, magnesium and calcium.

      Reply
  133. Richard Carrol

    Hi there again.
    A friend recommended that I check out the line of Ancestral Supplements.
    They offer an array of organ-based supplements specific to your kidney if you kidney disease, lung, if you have respiratory issues, etc. The reviews on Amazon, etc make this seem like the bet thing since sliced bread. It is hard to know if the hype is real and deserved, but the reviewers seem to swear that this helped so many conditions. Any thoughts?

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hi Richard,

      I am familiar with Ancestral Supplements and I think they make great products. I would put many of these supplements in a separate category compared to multivitamins as they are serving a different, targeted purpose. I agree, the reviews are overwhelmingly positive. I can’t comment on the results, but perhaps you could let me know if you try any of them and what you think.

      Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Also, I do want to mention that the founder of the company lied about taking steroids for many years, then recently admitted it. So there were some false impressions being given that the products were producing extraordinary results.

      Reply
  134. Janet

    Hi, I just read your article. Very informative. I was looking for a multivitamin. I would like to go with Primitive Scientific but have a question about what you said about beta carotene and smokers should not take that due to getting lunch cancer. I see that it has Vitamin A in there – is that the same thing? My husband smokes. I do not but am concerned about him taking this.
    Thank you.
    Janet

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hi Janet,

      Good question. Primitive Scientific contains Betatene and retinyl palmitate (vitamin A). Betatene contains natural beta carotene from algae and mixed carotenoids. Labels put beta carotene and carotenoids as vitamin A because they can be converted to vitamin A. The mechanism behind the increased risk of lung cancer in smokers is not fully understood, but it is believed beta carotene supplements may have pro-oxidant effects in the presence of tobacco smoke. The same finding hasn’t been found with a diet high in fruits and vegetables that contain beta carotene. At this time, I think it is prudent for smokers to avoid beta-carotene from supplementation.

      Reply
      • Janet

        Thk you so much for answering me. Sorry about the typo..lunch..lol
        Do you recommend a multivitamin for men that does not contain beta carotene but has everything he needs including choline?

        Reply
        • Alex Swanson

          Hi Janet,

          Not a problem! I knew what you meant :). Almost every multivitamin will have beta carotene. One exception is #6 on the list, Integrative Therapeutics ProThrivers. This one only contains vitamin A (no beta carotene). I would run this one by your doctor first. It doesn’t contain choline, but the amounts are so small in any multivitamin (the amount stated on the label isn’t accurate because the percentage of choline is much smaller) and it should either come from the diet or be supplemented as phosphatidylcholine. The other option would be using a multimineral, then supplementing other vitamins as needed. Let me know if I can help more if that multivitamin doesn’t work!

          Reply
  135. Cathy B

    Hi, I was so happy to find this site and your review/comments. I was curious if you have had the opportunity to review a multi-vitamin for Gastric Bypass patients (Roux-N-Y). This was 20 years ago and I now qualify as an older generation member. Since malabsorption will always be a concern, rapidly absorbable supplements have been critical. I started taking BariLife Just One multi, however it caused my potassium level to significantly increase and I have had to stop taking it (it took a while to find the culprit with the help of my doctor). I take no prescription medications and am reasonably active (yoga 4x week – gardening). Any suggestions for folks needing rapidly absorbable vitamins/minerals?

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hi Cathy,

      I’m happy you found it as well! For gastric bypass, have you tried sublinguals or PatchMD? Here is a PatchMD multivitamin one. One critic I have about this one is that it uses magnesium oxide (only 4% absorbed) so you would want to add magnesium oil.

      Reply
      • Cathy

        I had never even heard of a patch but it makes total sense. Thank you so much for the recommendation and the caution. I appreciate your input.

        Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      I think I linked to one with iron. Here is one without iron if you are looking for that.

      Reply
  136. Cannelle

    Hi Alex,
    Per usual thank you for your wonderful, detailed article. I am looking to support my parents.
    My dad is 72 years old, doesn’t take any medications, really healthy. He is having short term memory loss (nothing dramatic), in the middle of a move as well (quite stressful), I was wondering what you think will be best for him to take (he doesn’t take anything currently). I think he might be a bit nutrient deficient as well as he doesn’t eat a lot.
    My mom is 72 as well. She has 4 (non cancerous) brain tumors due to 20+ years of taking an hormonal replacement (she had lymphoma 30 years ago and they gave it to her). They removed the big one but she still has 3 smaller ones that we are monitoring every six months. She is somewhat ok but lots of memory loss and loss of balance as well.
    It would so helpful to have your opinion on what they should take.
    Thank you so much!!

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hi Cannelle,

      Of course, thank you for that. For your dad, you want to get a diet and supplement foundation for him first and see if he improves. A consistent, balanced meal plan at regular intervals will help balance his blood sugar. Make sure he is getting enough choline, from eggs for example. A multivitamin will also help address any deficiencies that might be occurring. If he still doesn’t improve, consider a product like Real Clarity and LifeForce Magnesium. Check with his doctor first.

      For your mom, it would be helpful to get some lab work done to see if there’s anything out of range. From a nutritional standpoint, a loss of balance can be related to poor B12 absorption. Exercises each day to build balance can also be very helpful. Since your mom is a more complicated case, I would recommend discussing this with her doctor to understand the cause of memory loss better, and what can be taken safely for her.

      Reply
  137. Eric

    does Primitive Scientific have certificates and third party lab reports available for viewing to back up their claims of what they put in their products ? The supplement industry is unregulated and I’m skeptical these days of just about everyone

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hi Eric,

      Yes, they have third party testing results that they should share upon request. Due to the supplement industry being unregulated and many companies not doing third party testing or not sharing their results, I recently created a rigorous certification called “PhytoVest Certified” that goes beyond organic and NSF. Primitive Scientific has gone through the testing and will have the certification on their labels for the next batch. You can read about what the certification requires here.

      Reply
  138. Sarah

    This article makes somuch sense. I am looking for a liquid or chewable multi mineral (could be vitamin, too) supplement as all pills get stuck for me now and wondering if you have any thoughts on a liquid or chewable for those of us who jsut cannot swall pills anymore.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hi Sarah,

      Are you open to powdered formulas you can add to liquid? Liquids are difficult to find because there are often stabilization challenges for water-soluble vitamins. For supplements that use vegetable capsules, you can open them up and pour them in liquid or in food. There is a powdered multivitamin called Optimal Multivitamin Powder that also may be a good option. For chewables, your best bet would be SmartyPants, however these are low-dose formulas that may be insufficient depending on your needs.

      Reply
  139. Catherine

    Hi Alex,
    Thank you always for everything you do! I’m hoping to get your opinion for my mom. She is 80 years old and her main health concerns are asthma (fairly stable unless she gets a cold; uses a steroid inhaler daily for preventative), osteoporosis (was on Fosomax for 20 years; has had bone breaks, and two knee replacements), type II diabetes (takes metformin, although now considered pre-diabetic), neuropathy, and leg cramping. She is waiting on results for a DEXA scan, Vit D3 levels, magnesium, and B12/folate.

    She is taking the following supplements and I would love any feedback you have.
    -Primitive Scientifica 2/Day Essentials
    -Primitive Scientific Nordic Pure Fish Roe Oil Complex
    -UltraBrain by Energy Blueprint (She has quite a few bottles to use up, but could switch to your recommended Real Mushrooms RealClarity and NeuroEffect by PaleoValley, when finished. What do you think about UltraBrain? Do you recommend both Real Mushrooms RealClarity and NeuroEffect together or just one or the other?
    -LIfeforce Magnesium
    -Jarrow-Dophilus + FOS
    -Trace Mineral Drops
    -Healthy Feet & Nerves neuropathy supplement (includes B vitamins, chromium, Bowellia, etc.)
    -Melatonin
    -CBD

    Some other supplements she is taking to mainly use up include the following. My thought is these might not be necessary.
    -Resveratrol
    -Berberine
    -Biotin
    -CoQ10
    -Turmeric

    She also has some various bone health supplements, but I’m not sure which one would be best for her specifically.
    Thank you so much!

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hi Catherine,

      Regarding Ultrabrain, it is a more complicated formulation, but generally good. Most of the time, I prefer a shorter ingredient list with synergistic actions and pathways that are easier to identify what is working and what is not. In comparison, Ultrabrain contains everything RealClarity does except Ashwagandha. Neuroeffect is best for those wanting to target cognition and cancer prevention. So if Ultrabrain is a good fit, continue. You should always notice a difference with any supplement, so how your mom is responding to it really depends on noticeable changes.

      For melatonin, this can be a double edged sword with blood sugar depending on genetics. If possible, it’s better to use an alternative for sleep with someone who has diabetes. You can read more here: https://nutritiongenome.com/the-mtnr1b-gene-and-melatonin/

      For your list of other supplements, berberine is the stand-out for blood sugar. I would focus on targeting her fasting blood sugar and A1C as the primary goal because if you can’t get those in healthy ranges, everything else will improve.

      Can you send a link to the healthy nerves and feet supplement? I just want to calculate the amounts she is getting from multiple supplements.

      Reply
      • Catherine

        Thank you, Alex! Here is the link to the healthy nerves and feet supplement: https://www.terrynaturallyvitamins.com/healthy-feet-nerves.

        I think we’ll see how the Ultrabrain supplement goes and then decide if we want to switch her to Neureffect. How long should we give Ultrabrain a chance before potentially switching, do you think? Should we consider both Neuroeffect and RealClarity simultaneously?

        That is very interesting about melatonin and diabetes. I’m going to talk to my mom about purchasing the Nutrition Genome test. That could be very informative.

        I think continuing with Berberine is a good idea. I’m wondering if she should try to get off of metformin, if possible.

        Do you think the CoQ10, resveratrol, and biotin are overkill? I think she was taking biotin for hair growth.

        She did get her recent test results back: Vit D3 =47.5; B12 = 584; Folate, serum = 19; and magnesium = 2

        Thank you for your indispensable feedback! I so appreciate it!

        Reply
        • Alex Swanson

          Hi Catherine,

          Thanks for sending a link to this product. It’s good you are using the lower-dosed Primitive Scientific multivitamin with this product because it contains some high dosages. Just keep that mind if you add any new products.

          I would give Ultrabrain two months and track if there are any noticeable changes. If you are going to use Neuroeffect or RealClarity, I would try them separately first. But yes, they could technically be used together.

          Berberine has a good track record for being effective. The continued use of Metformin is up to you, your mom and your doctor.

          CoQ10 has some solid research for glycemic control and heart health, so if it isn’t too much, that could be a helpful addition. I don’t think isolated resveratrol is as effective as a lot of people make it out to be due to poor absorption. I think it’s best consumed in small doses from the diet. She is getting a higher dose of biotin from her Healthy Feet and Nerves supplement, so I wouldn’t add more. Also, unless there is a biotin deficiency, there’s very little evidence it helps hair growth. Take a look at this article for what does work: Proven Research for Hair Growth, Thickness and Health.

          Reply
          • Catherine

            Thank you so much, Alex!!

          • Catherine

            Hi Alex,
            My mom is scheduling a DEXA scan hopefully soon. I’m fairly certain she has bone loss, as past tests indicated this. Do you have a bone health supplement you recommend in addition to the supplements she is taking? Thank you again!

  140. Lorraine Dickens

    Thank you for addressing the nutritional needs of the older generation. As a retiree, I recently incorporated a vitamin B complex supplement into my routine for its potential cognitive benefits. The information on vitamin B-6 deficiency is particularly relevant, and finding content that aligns with my health goals is encouraging. Your article serves as a timely reminder for individuals in their later years.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hi Lorraine,

      I appreciate that! The product you linked uses cyanocobalamin for B12 and folic acid for folate, which are two forms I do not recommend. For B12, you want methylcobalamin, hydroxocobalamin or adenosylcobalamin. For folate, you want methylfolate or folinic acid. Also, for B6, a better absorbed form is P-5-P compared to pyridoxine HCL.

      Reply
    • Catherine

      Alex, thank you so much! I think the Gerolsteiner water is my mom’s favorite idea! It will help with her goal to drink enough water as well. Do you have any product recommendations for Berberine and CoQ10? Thank you so much!

      Reply
      • Alex Swanson

        Hi Catherine,

        Great! For Berbeine, I don’t think there is much of a difference in the effectiveness between products. Just choose a reputable brand that does purity testing. I would use Thorne Research Dual Action Berberine. For CoQ10, there’s a lot of conflicting opinions out there regarding the best form and highest absorption rate. I think both forms (ubiquinone and ubiquinol) are both effective. Pure Encapsulations CoQ10 is a good product.

        Reply
        • Catherine

          Alex, thank you so much!! 🙂

          Reply
  141. Dan Pejril

    Thank you so much for the informative article and detailed responses to your questions. My wife and I are 55, healthy, no meds, and eat relatively healthy (organic veg, clean meats and fish – minimal processed foods).

    We are looking for a multi and with all my research, I am still very confused. I was thinking about a few different options:
    – Pure Encapsulations ONE (although no K)
    – Pure Encapsulations Men’s Nutrients (and women’s)
    – Pure Therapro RX MethylMulti w/o Iron

    After going through your article and responses I have added: Thorne Basic Nutrients 2 a day

    Which do you think would be best and what additional supplementing would be needed with these.
    Thank you.

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hi Dan,

      Of course! All of these options you listed contain higher dosages. My approach is that high dosages of vitamins and minerals are only necessary when the following is occurring: Poor absorption, multiple health issues that benefit from higher doses, micronutrient panel shows deficiencies, or you’re taking medications that deplete specific vitamins and minerals. Like deficiency, you can also cause harm with getting too much of certain nutrients.

      If you and your wife are healthy, eat well, and are not taking medications, you can take a more conservative approach to your needs. I would consider looking at the Primitive Scientific and MegaFood 55+ multivitamins. I would also recommend adding magnesium to either one if you are both very active, stressed, get leg cramps, or have trouble sleeping. You can read more about magnesium supplements here.

      You might also be interested in an article I wrote called How to Make a Whole Food Multivitamin Stack.

      Reply
      • Dan Pejril

        Fantastic, thank you so much for your perspective. That is exactly what I was wondering about, the high dosages. I appreciate your help and will check out the articles you have linked.

        Reply
  142. Jon C

    Hey Alex, my mom is a senior and has thinning hair. She is looking for a product to help rejuvenate her hair and make it thicker and fuller. Any thoughts on any supplements to accomplish that?

    Reply
  143. Judith James

    When you publish more on vitamins/minerals, will you be taking a look as well at Wonderfeel Youngr NMN? Do you have any current comments on this expensive but hopefully useful supplement?

    Reply
    • Alex Swanson

      Hi Judith,

      I took a look, and I would agree that it seems overpriced. Recently, it has come to light that longevity research on resveratrol by David Sinclair was unable to be replicated and debunked. NMN has promising research, but there has been a back and forth whether this will be a prescription drug or remain a supplement. Ergothioneine is an interesting antioxidant from mushrooms. Olive fruit extract also has antioxidant research. Overall, it’s not a bad formulation. But I would be hesitant on spending this much, depending on what results you are hoping to see from it.

      Reply

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