Vitamins and Supplements that Won't Upset a Sensitive Stomach

Why Can Supplements Cause an Upset Stomach?

People with sensitive stomachs may be more prone to abdominal discomfort when taking dietary supplements.

After all, between 60 to 70 million Americans are affected by all types of digestive diseases such as ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), per the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.

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People living with gastrointestinal (GI) issues or people who simply cannot tolerate taking vitamins and minerals in supplement form face an ongoing dilemma. Their sensitive GI system might be preventing them from properly absorbing dietary supplements, yet not taking supplements (such as a multivitamin) could lead to possible long-term nutrient deficiencies, Avena says.

Yet if you're searching for a new brand or formula, there are other supplements on the market that are likely to be more stomach-soothing.

The Best Supplements for a Sensitive Stomach

All of these supplements are approved by ConsumerLab, an independent organization that tests health and nutrition supplements.

Gummies

"Taste can contribute to nausea, so opt for a gummy, which comes in different fruit flavors and is easy to take," Avena says. Just keep in mind that gummies often contain added sugar.

  • Puritan's Pride Women's Multivitamin Gummies Plus Collagen ($12, Amazon)
  • SmartyPants Organic Women's Multivitamin ($19, Amazon)
  • CVS Health Men's Daily Complete Multivitamin Gummies ($7.99, CVS)
Liquid Supplements

Drinking your daily dose of essential vitamins and minerals instead of gagging on a pill might put nausea to rest.

For example, Garden of Life Vitamin Code's liquid multivitamin is made from vitamins and minerals derived from 46 nutrient-dense foods like quinoa and chia seed sprouts. It's also free of dairy, gluten, artificial flavors, sweeteners, colors and preservatives.

  • Garden of Life Vitamin Code Liquid Multivitamin ($38, Amazon)
  • Centrum Liquid ($8, Walgreens)
  • Nature's Way Alive! Liquid Multivitamin ($29, Amazon)

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