What are the different ways of taking multivitamins

My first introduction to multi vitamins was when my roommate a science graduate in biology told me that I should supplement with multi vitamins at least on my “ladies” days.

My journey has come a long way since then in understating their need and if really a replenishment is indeed required. Lately I came across vitamin skin patches, that got me thinking what are different ways of taking these vitamins and their respective pros n cons.

Let’s look at different options for taking multivitamins -

1. Tablets: Typically made with fillers, binders, and coatings, tablets can be less palatable and may give discomfort to those with delicate digestive systems.
2. Capsules: Containing a powder or tablet-like mixture of vitamins and minerals within a gelatin or vegetable-based shell, capsules are often preferred by those who have trouble swallowing pills.
3. Effervescing Tablets: They dissolve in water, making them a convenient option for on-the-go supplementation. Effervescing Tablet's fast-dissolving nature can also mean they may not provide sustained release or optimal absorption and also most of them are very sugary or contain sugar substitutes.
4. Transdermal patches also known as transdermal multivitamins : these patches release vitamins and minerals directly into the bloodstream through the skin. This unique delivery method can bypass the digestive system. If it sounds flashy and it’s cost pinches. These patches are safe to use as per the medical regulation body but its efficacy is doubtful.

Many dermatologists and doctors are bringing forth the point that skin has many layers and these molecules have to be absorbed through these layers to enter bloodstream. Some of them are big enough that they don’t permeate the skin. Another striking point is that some vitamins are fat soluble and are absorbed better if taken orally. Measuring dosage of vitamins is also problematic. Exception is, in cases where people have impairment gut absorption of nutrients, they might be suggested by medical practitioner for transdermal patches.

If I try and co relate I would say, biologically our bodies absorb vitamins and minerals through food and drink because they are accustomed to breaking them down in this way and absorbing it into bloodstream, but for one notable exception: vitamin D. also stating that certain foods do contain vitamin D.

So, in this world of marketing… where health has also become a commodity it is difficult to state which form of multivitamin is better. Science evolves and provides us with tools for better living but nothing comes close to the natural way of doing things.