Differences Between Chewable Vitamins & Tablets - Ajit Patel Wellness, Ajit Patel Sanda,

Vitamin supplements are available in a wide range of forms – capsules, caplets, tablets, soft gels, liquid, powder and chewable vitamins. Tablets are a firm solid substance that is mean to be swallowed, while chewable tablets are, as the name explains, designed to be chewed. Chewables are now quite popular in a gummy vitamin form as well. Chewables are typically best suited for children and others who have difficulty swallowing pills. Though quite similar, there are some important factors that distinguish hard tablets from chewable vitamins. 

AbsorptionAbsorption refers to the process your body goes through when food and nutrients break down and enter your bloodstream. Vitamins are absorbed through passive diffusion. This describes the manner in which the vitamins pass through the walls of your small intestine and enter your bloodstream. 

There are some outside factors that influence your body’s vitamin absorption:
1. Alcohol– Consumption of alcohol can detrimentally impact your body’s ability to effectively absorb vitamins.

2. Drugs – Different drugs can have different effects on various vitamin absorption rates. If you are on any medications, speak with your medical professional about the potential impact they may have. 

3. Caffeine – Caffeine affects the absorption of iron up to 80 percent. If you are unable to cut caffeine out of your diet, try to space out caffeine consumption and taking your vitamins by at least one hour. 

4. Stress – Stress often causes digestive issue, such as heartburn and indigestion, which then impacts vitamin and nutrient absorption adversely. Reducing stress has many other health benefits as well. 

5. Exercise – Exercise is great, but consuming food and/or vitamins too soon after an intense workout can minimize absorption. Keep exercising, but wait a couple hours between your workout and taking vitamins. 

6. Food – Taking vitamins with food is the preferred method as it helps with digestion and absorption. Taking vitamins alone may lead to speedy absorption that decreases its effectiveness.

When comparing the absorption rate of tablets vs. chewables, look to the dosage size and bioavailability. Contrary to popular belief, a larger dose does not increase absorption efficiency and likely has the opposite effect. So, check labels and ensure that your vitamin supplements aren’t overloaded. Spacing out your intake through the day can be advantageous for efficient absorption. 

How well the vitamin breaks down during digestion is its bioavailability. It you are purchasing quality vitamins from a reputable source, this shouldn’t be a problem. A good marker for this is the presence of a United States Pharmocopeia (USP) or NSF International seal indicating that the vitamin was tested and ruled satisfactory for ease of disintegration. Some manufacturers disclose the disintegration times on their labeling, as well. 

There is no clear-cut winner between tablets and chewables on the issue of absorption, as you will find that the rate may vary from one brand or type of vitamin to the next. Though chewables may be easier on your stomach since you start breaking them down immediately through saliva and the act of chewing. 

CostCost is far more clear cut. Tablets are typically the most cost effective form in which to purchase vitamins. Manufacturers spend less while packing more into a tablet. Tablets also retain potency longer than other forms of vitamins and are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. That means you can save money by buying in bulk knowing the potency will last. 

Chewables are pricier than tablets, and gummy vitamins even more so. 

QualityChewables often contain a lower dosage of vitamins than tablets. And since vitamins aren’t exactly tasty, chewables have a higher content of corn syrup, sugar and/or artificial sweeteners in order to make the taste palatable. Keep in mind that manufacturers work hard to make chewables tasty and visually appealing. The downside of this is their similarity to candy in a child’s eyes. Use caution and keep these chewable vitamins safely stored away from little hands and mouths. 

On the plus side, chewables are easier to take than hard tablets. Many adults have difficulty swallowing pills and this option is a welcome one. To address this need, most manufacturers offer adult gummy vitamins with a higher dosage of vitamins than those of children’s chewables. 

Wrapping UpSo, essentially there aren’t big differences between tablets and chewable vitamins, and your choice will probably be guided by your requirements. If you have small children, it’s likely that chewables are currently the only workable option for vitamin supplements. For adults, if cost is an important factor, tablets are the answer. If swallowing pills is a problem, adult gummy vitamins are a good option. In all cases, be sure to check the nutrition labels, and it’s a great idea to discuss your vitamin needs with a healthcare professional before you begin taking any supplements. 

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