The Best Liquid Vitamins for Women
A liquid vitamin product may supply one vitamin, such as B-12, all of the B-complex vitamins or a mixture of vitamins and minerals. Sublingual vitamins in liquid form can be placed under the tongue for direct absorption into the bloodstream. For a general multivitamin formula, taken by the spoonful, stick to name brands or those recommended by people you trust. Liquid vitamins absorb more efficiently into the bloodstream. Tablets and capsules often bypass proper digestion because of binders in the pills.
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Read Labels to See the Formula
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A good brand of a multivitamin liquid mixture will include vitamins A, E. and C, plus all of the B-complex vitamins and antioxidants. Calcium and magnesium may also be included in a liquid multivitamin. Women sometimes require more B-complex vitamins if they are under stress, pregnant, nursing, or going through menopause, but most formulas exceed the minimum daily requirement of each nutrient.
A Single Vitamin Might Be Needed
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If patient bloodwork reveals a deficiency of vitamin B-12, for example, a good brand of sublingual B-12 as the main vitamin can help. Pregnancy can reduce folic acid, which can harm the fetus. Birth control pills can reduce vitamin B-6 in the bloodstream. But taking just one of the B vitamins, or unregulated blends of supplements, can cause a deficiency of the others. To correct a true deficiency, ask your doctor to help you choose a formula.
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Trace Metals and Preservatives
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Herbal experts say liquid vitamins should not contain trace metals such as tin, gold, silver and aluminum. There is no proof they are needed, and there is a lot of controversy over their ingestion in any form. "All-natural" vitamins, made from plant substances, should include a natural preservative. Chemical preservatives may damage the kidneys. Experts agree that synthetic vitamins work as well as natural ones.
Be Wary of Megadoses and Off Brands
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Nutritional supplements bought from health websites or private companies must be carefully evaluated. Herbal products, taken in large quantities, can cause dangerous thinning of the blood. A well-versed health food store worker can suggest a trusted herbal blend of liquid vitamins or sublingual vitamins that has been around for some time.
FDA Does Not Regulate Vitamin Market
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The FDA does not regulate the manufacturing or packaging of nutritional supplements. Virtually anyone can make and market liquid or pill form supplements. Individuals must determine the brand that best agrees with their systems. Take according to directions. Doubling up on doses can cause overload of certain nutrients, which can damage the liver and other body organs over time.
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- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of D'Arcy Norman
