The supplement market is a multi-billion dollar industry. As interest in health and wellness continues to grow across demographics, that number is expected to grow right along with it.
Consumers have made it clear that they are looking for clean and natural products, and the shelves are lined with supplements that fit the bill with plant-based options made from non-GMO, vegan and gluten-free ingredients. According to the Natural Marketing Institute (NMI), consumers are also interested in buying products that are safe and easy to digest.
When choosing a delivery system for supplements, there are many formulations on the market today. Those who have avoided vitamins and supplements in pill-based form because they were difficult to swallow or made them feel like they were “taking medicine” now have options such as gummies, soft chews and drink mixes in tasty flavors.
Others simply like the flexibility these new formulations offer – add a drink mix packet to your morning smoothie for your daily dose of essential vitamins and minerals or a serving of protein.
While one formulation isn’t necessarily any more effective than the other, you’ll have no problem finding products that are convenient for your lifestyle. Try these:
Vega Vitamins Drinkable Vitamins
Multivitamins are one of the most popular supplements on the market. Empty a pouch of this drink mix made with real, plant-based ingredients in a glass of cold water for at least 50% of the daily value of 13 vitamins including vitamin A, C, D, E, K and B-vitamins. Gluten-free, non-GMO.
Garden of Life Protein & Greens
Used as a meal replacement or after a bout of exercise, protein powders are used to boost overall health and to help build lean muscle mass. This organic plant-based formula supplies 20 grams of protein per serving with superfoods such as spinach, kale and broccoli and a probiotic to boot. Add a scoop to 6 ounces of water or your favorite milk substitute. Gluten-free, soy-free, dairy-free, vegan, non-GMO.
Natural Vitality Natural Calm Magnesium Supplement
It’s no surprise that this powdered mix known as the “anti-stress” drink is the best-selling magnesium supplement in the natural products market. Add 1-2 teaspoons to hot or cold water to restore healthy magnesium levels, which is important to nerve and muscle function. Vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO.
Karen Morse, MPH, is a freelance health and nutrition writer. In her free time, she enjoys Pilates, exploring nearby hiking trails and cooking up fresh, seasonal eats in the kitchen. Her work has appeared in Clean Eating, Weight Watchers, YouBeauty.com and others.