i heard it was naturemade, because they did a study. are there any new studies out there about the best vitamin? whats your favorite vitamin? thanks! :)

Hi WCaroline. Sadly, there is no way to absolutely answer your question. I will try to give you some guidance, but there are no absolutes here. Also, I am assuming you are asking about a multi-vitamin/mineral supplement and not just 'one' particular vitamin.

Many factors affect vitamin and mineral absorption. The form of the vitamin, the form of the mineral, the digestive function of the person, taking the supplement with a meal, the amount of the vitamin and/or mineral, etc. - all of these things affect the absorption of the supplement. Generally, vitamin/mineral supplements should be taken with meals to maximize absorption. Antacids and acid-inhibitor drugs should be avoided because they impair absorption of many vital nutrients (e.g. calcium, iron, zinc and vitamin B12).

A quality vitamin/mineral supplement will meet all of these criteria:

1) It is in an opaque bottle (light can damage vitamins).

2) The product has an expiration date.

3) The 'pill' is a capsule (not a tablet).

4) The B-vitamins are at or above the RDA levels.

5) Vitamin C is at or above the RDA level.

6) Vitamin E is the natural form and not synthetic. Natural E is "d-alpha-tocopherol". If the bottle says "dl-alpha-tocopherol" it is synthetic and should be avoided.