The Ultimate Guide To Organic Vitamins And Supplements

Organic vitamins and supplements can help fill specific gaps in your diet, but most healthy people get what they need from food.

So how do you know which supplements you really need, and what does "organic" actually mean on a label?

Firstly, it’s important to understand the terms vitamins, supplements and organic. Vitamins are essential for normal growth and bodily functions.

A sufficient amount can usually be obtained from the food you eat as part of your everyday diet. Supplements can provide nutrients if you’re not getting enough from food.

The FDA does not approve dietary supplements for safety or effectiveness before they are sold, according to FDA 101: Dietary Supplements. Some supplements also interact with medicines, so check with your doctor or pharmacist before starting one.

Diet isn’t the only factor that can cause someone to require supplements. People who live in far northern or southern countries may need to take vitamin D (known as “the sun vitamin”) supplements throughout the winter as they’re unlikely to gain enough from natural sunlight.

Worldwide, over a billion people are either vitamin D deficient or insufficient.

For supplements, "organic" refers to how the ingredients were grown and processed under USDA organic rules, which restrict synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. It does not mean a product is safer, stronger or better absorbed, and many vitamins in "whole food" products are still made or concentrated in a lab.

This guide covers the main types of organic supplements, what they can and can’t do, and some popular products.

​Top 10 Organic Vitamins And Supplements

Image	Model	Supplement Type	Form
NatureWise Vitamin D3	NatureWise Vitamin D3	Vitamin D3	Soft-gel capsules
MaryRuth Organics Liquid Multivitamin	MaryRuth Organics Liquid Multivitamin	Multivitamin	Liquid
Garden of Life Green Superfood	Garden of Life Green Superfood	Green Superfood	Powder
Organic India Turmeric Formula	Organic India Turmeric Formula	Tumeric	Capsules
NatureWise Probiotics	NatureWise Probiotics	Probiotics	Capsules
Pure Encapsulations Vitamin D3	Pure Encapsulations Vitamin D3	Vitamin D3	Capsules
MaryRuth Organics Liquid Nighttime Multimineral	MaryRuth Organics Liquid Nighttime Multimineral	Multimineral	Liquid
Nature’s Way Ginger Root	Nature’s Way Ginger Root	Ginger	Capsules
Smarty Pant Kids Multivitamin	Smarty Pant Kids Multivitamin	Multivitamin	Gummies
Garden of Life Primal Defense Probiotic	Garden of Life Primal Defense Probiotic	Probiotics	Capsules

Types Of Organic Supplement

As mentioned above, supplements are simply extra things we can take to ensure our bodies are growing and working properly.

People take supplements to help with a variety of health and beauty issues. These include heart health, blood pressure, shiny hair, strong nails, strong bones, a strong immune system, and improved digestion.

Let’s take a look at some of the most common types of supplements:

Vitamins

Whilst most vitamins can be obtained in sufficient quantities from your diet, there are occasions when a vitamin supplement is required. Vitamins are needed to help with growth and development.

Quite often, people will choose to take a daily multivitamin. A multivitamin contains a range of different vitamins and is aimed at maintaining general health.

They’re useful if for some reason you’re unable to eat a balanced diet or travelling abroad where a variety of foods may not be accessible.

They might just be used for an added health boost, particularly in the winter months.

There’s a large range of multivitamins on the market. Synthetic and food-derived vitamins generally work the same way in the body, so focus on the dose and choose a product with third-party quality testing (such as USP or NSF).

Minerals

Like vitamins, minerals are essential for our body’s growth and development. For example, calcium helps to build strong and healthy bones.

A calcium supplement may be needed for those who’re allergic to or choose not to eat dairy, which is one source of calcium. It’s also good for those who struggle to get enough calcium-rich vegetables into their diets.

Another example is iron, which many types of meat are very high in. Although vegetarians and vegans can obtain iron from other sources, including nuts and vegetables, some may require an iron supplement.

A multivitamin often contains both these minerals and more, a reason why some choose to take them.

Herbals and Botanicals

Herbal supplements (sometimes called botanicals) are derived from plants.

Natural doesn’t automatically mean safe, and herbal products aren’t always organic. Some have drug-like effects, can interact with prescription medicines or cause allergic reactions.

Common herbal supplements include echinacea to help prevent colds and ginkgo to improve memory.

Even though plant-based materials have been used in medicine for centuries, herbal supplements are regulated like other dietary supplements, which means they are not tested and approved by the FDA before sale.

It’s best to seek professional advice before starting a course of herbal supplements.

Amino Acids

Amino acids make up protein. When you eat protein-rich food, your body breaks it down into amino acids and absorbs them.

Most people, including most athletes, can meet their needs with protein-rich foods or a protein powder. Free amino acid supplements are not clearly better than whole protein.

Protein helps build muscle and can help you feel full, which is why some athletes use amino acid supplements.

Probiotics

Probiotics are bacteria and yeasts that are good for your health, particularly your digestive system.

Similar microbes live naturally in your body. According to the NCCIH, some studies suggest probiotics may help prevent diarrhea linked to antibiotics and may ease IBS symptoms, but the evidence is still limited.

People with weakened immune systems or serious illnesses should talk to a doctor before taking them.

They work by helping your ‘good’ bacteria stay in a healthy balance with your ‘bad’ bacteria. Probiotics are commonly found in dairy foods, as well as in other fermented foods.

Supplements may be necessary for those who can’t eat dairy products.

The Best Organic Supplement Brands

With an abundance of supplements on the market, it can be overwhelming to decide which is best for you.

Below are popular brands that sell organic or plant-based supplements. Brand descriptions reflect what the companies say about themselves.

Organic India

Organic India are devoted to natural ingredients and Mother Nature. They specialize in herbal supplements that can be taken in tablet form or drunk as a tea.

Organic India work closely with farming families in India on thousands of acres of sustainable farmland.

When buying Organic India products, you’re not just looking after your own health, but helping to support Indian farmers and their families.

They’re a brand with a true focus on nature with a passion for creating high quality, effective, pure, and natural supplements.

NatureWise

NatureWise are another company committed to helping you lead a long and healthy life. They do this by creating supplements and drinks (including tea) from pure and natural ingredients.

NatureWise use whole food vitamins that maintain their nutrients and integrity. Where possible, they source their ingredients from certified organic and sustainable sources.

The company says its products are third-party tested for potency and purity.

Pure Encapsulations

With the company motto that ‘nothing but pure’, Pure Encapsulations is a brand that prides themselves on using pure and natural ingredients.

They offer a wide range of products and say their supplements are made without many common allergens. Always check the label if you have a food allergy.

MaryRuth Organics

Sometimes swallowing and ingesting tablets and capsules can be difficult. If this is a problem for you, MaryRuth Organics offer a range of liquid vitamins and minerals.

They also sell a nighttime mineral formula marketed to support relaxation before bed.

Products from MaryRuth Organics are suitable for both vegetarians and vegans. They are entirely plant-based.

They also have an abundance of organic health and beauty products to keep you looking good on the outside too!

Garden Of Life

An extensive line of products are available from Garden of Life, including organic vitamins to specifically cater for men, women, pregnant women, vegans and athletes.

They even offer a spray-on vitamin which is useful for those who don’t like to swallow tablets.

Products from Garden of Life are Kosher Certified, making them available to a wider range of the population.

Garden of Life have a community and a sustainable focus. When you buy their products you’re supporting family farms and the environment.

Top 10 Organic Vitamins And Supplements

NatureWise Vitamin D3

Vitamin D is essential for muscle function, healthy bones and teeth and immune support.

NatureWise uses vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol), the same form your skin makes in sunlight.

Low vitamin D levels are common, especially in people who get little sun. Some estimates put around 6% of the population in the severely deficient range, though figures vary by country and cutoff.

More is not better. MedlinePlus lists 4,000 IU (100 mcg) a day as the safe upper limit for adults and children 9 and older, and toxicity almost always comes from taking too many supplements.

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MaryRuth Organics Liquid Multivitamin

Designed for both men and women, this liquid vitamin is easy to take, even on an empty stomach.

Loaded with vitamins such as vitamin A, B, C, D, and E, biotin and folate, it’s one of the best organic multivitamins.

A multivitamin can help cover gaps in your diet. It won’t boost energy or immunity if you aren’t lacking these nutrients to begin with.

MaryRuth Liquid Vitamin is gluten, nut, soy and wheat-free, making it very suitable for those who suffer allergies.

A liquid can be easier for people who struggle to swallow pills, and the flavors make it easier to take.

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Garden Of Life Green Superfood

This superfood supplement provides antioxidants, enzymes, amino acids, and more!

Green powders add some plant nutrients, but they don’t replace eating vegetables and fruit.

Garden of Life Green Superfood is vegan, dairy, soy, and gluten-free, as well as being certified organic. It’ll last you around one month.

To get the full benefits you simply add one scoop to your favorite juice. The taste may be less than desirable, but it’s worth experimenting with a variety of juices, smoothies, and soups until you find the best way to mask the flavour.

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Organic India Turmeric Formula

Turmeric is a herbal supplement that has been used in many cultures for centuries.

Supporters say It has a large variety of health benefits, but the NCCIH says there isn’t enough evidence to conclude turmeric helps any health condition.

Turmeric supplements can cause stomach upset, and liver damage has been reported with some highly absorbable curcumin products. Check with your doctor first, especially if you take medicines.

Turmeric can be used in cooking, but taking it in a supplement form is much easier.

The turmeric used by Organic India is grown on sustainable farmland.

It’s also suitable for vegans and is gluten and dairy-free, as well as being Kosher and Halal Certified.

Follow the label dose and don’t expect it to replace medical treatment.

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NatureWise Probiotics

NatureWise markets this probiotic with a time-release capsule meant to carry live cultures through the stomach to the intestines.

Follow the dose on the label. Benefits depend on the specific strains and the condition, and not everyone needs a probiotic.

Storing probiotics as the label directs, often in a cool place or the fridge, helps keep the cultures alive.

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Pure Encapsulations Vitamin D3

· Vitamin D supports bone health by helping your body absorb calcium.

· Easy to ingest and swallow.

· Free from wheat, gluten, eggs and nuts

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MaryRuth Organics Liquid Nighttime Multimineral

· Marketed for nighttime use to support relaxation; it is not a treatment for sleep disorders.

· Full of a range of minerals that may be difficult to obtain from diet alone.

· Suitable for vegetarian and vegans, and those who are allergic to gluten, soy, dairy and nuts.

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Nature’s Way Ginger Root

· Easy on stomachs and helps with digestion and nausea.

· Ginger may help pregnancy-related nausea, though evidence for other types of nausea is weaker.

· Herbs can interact with medicines, so ask your doctor first if you take any.

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Smarty Pant Kids Multivitamin

· Gummy format made for children.

· Contains a range of vitamins and minerals.

· Keep all gummy vitamins out of children’s reach, since kids can mistake them for candy and overdose.

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Garden of Life Primal Defense Probiotic

· Marketed to support digestive health.

· Suitable for vegetarians and those allergic to gluten.

· Check the label for storage directions.

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Buying Guide for Organic Vitamins And Supplements

In order to find the best organic supplements it’s important to keep an eye out for a few important considerations.

Ingredients

Always read the ingredients list (it’s usually found on the packaging). Check that it contains the vitamins, minerals, amino acids, enzymes or probiotics that you need.

It’s also important to check what it doesn’t contain. For example, if you suffer from a dairy allergy you must make sure the product is dairy-free.

Brand

It’s easy to be misled and buy an inferior product from an unknown brand. Look out for reputable brands and always do your research before buying something new.

Certification And Approval

The FDA does not approve dietary supplements, so be wary of any product claiming to be "FDA-approved." Look for the USDA Organic seal if organic matters to you, and for third-party testing seals such as USP or NSF. If relevant, look for Kosher and Halal certification.

Type Of Supplement

Supplements can come in many forms – tablets, sprays, powders and liquids. It may take some experimenting, but if you find what works for you, you’re more likely to take the supplement regularly.

In Conclusion

The world of organic supplements and vitamins can be overwhelming. Hopefully, this guide will help you to navigate the extensive range and cater for your individual needs.

Organic supplements can be useful when you have a real gap, such as low vitamin D or a restricted diet. They don’t replace a balanced diet and won’t cure disease.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before starting a new supplement, especially if you are pregnant, take prescription medicines or are buying for a child.

Sources

• FDA 101: Dietary Supplements, U.S. Food and Drug Administration
• Vitamin D, MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia
• Turmeric, National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health
• Probiotics: Usefulness and Safety, National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health