Spending a whole lot of time at home with a full house? Then you want to make sure every member of your family is staying as healthy as possible. Thing is, we all have different needs.
Here, The Vitamin Shoppe’s team of nutritionists break down the must-have vitamins and supplements for every member of your family—from the little tykes to Grandpa.
For Mom
1. Vthrive The Vitamin Shoppe brand Bioactive Once Daily Multivitamin for Women
A daily multivitamin ensures you meet your needs for all sorts of essential vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients—so it’s no surprise that it’s a must-have for every member of the family right now.
For moms (and all women of childbearing age), The Vitamin Shoppe nutritionist Brittany Michels, R.D.N., L.D.N., recommends this bioactive (a.k.a. easy-to-absorb) multivitamin from Vthrive The Vitamin Shoppe brand. It’s got high levels of the nutrients women need, including iron and folate.
2. Probiocare 35 Billion Probiotics
In addition to helping our digestive system rock and roll, probiotics also support a strong immune system—and factors like stress and processed foods can deplete our microbiome, says Michels.
Read More: The Best (And Worst) Time Of Day To Take Probiotics
“The Probiocare line is great because it’s allergen-free,” says Michels. Another bonus: It contains a specific strain that helps promote respiratory health.
“Most adults fare well with between 15 and 50 billion CFUs per day, depending on the number of above factors.”
3. Source Naturals Wellness Formula
This beloved (and award-winning) herbal defense formula contains a variety of immune-supporting vitamins, minerals, and herbs to help your system stay strong. According to The Vitamin Shoppe nutritionist Karen Cooney, it’s a must for maintaining general wellness—especially in times like these.
For Dad
1. Vthrive The Vitamin Shoppe brand Bioactive Once Daily Multivitamin for Men
This multivitamin from Vthrive The Vitamin Shoppe brand is Michels’ top pick for dads. Formulated for men’s needs, it provides a range of nutrients to support heart and brain health.
2. Probiocare Men’s Probiotic
Containing 50 billion CFUs of good-for-you probiotics per serving, this Probiocare supplement (also selected by Michels) is formulated specifically to support men’s colon and respiratory health, making it a solid option for most guys.
3. The Vitamin Shoppe Oil of Oregano
Oil of oregano is famous for its immune-boosting phytochemical and antioxidant content, making it a great option for anyone who needs to keep their inner defenses up. Cooney recommends this easy-to-take option from The Vitamin Shoppe brand.
For The Kids
1. Nature’s Plus Animal Parade Gold Children’s Chewable Multivitamin
These fun chewable multivitamins from Nature’s Plus are one of Cooney’s go-to’s for kids. Every sugar-free (!) serving provides the variety of nutrients growing bodies need, plus probiotics and whole foods. They’re also free from artificial colors, preservatives, and allergens like yeast, wheat, and soy.
2. The Vitamin Shoppe brand Chewable Probiotic
These chewable probiotics from The Vitamin Shoppe brand are best for kids, says Michels. (One or two chewable per day covers their needs.)
One thing to note: They do contain dairy.
3. Nature’s Way Sambucus Immune Syrup for Kids
Colorful elderberry (a.k.a. sambucus) contains antioxidants famous for their immune benefits—and elderberry syrup tastes so sweet that kids will look forward to sipping on this immune-booster. Cooney likes this syrup from Nature’s Way, which also contains echinacea and propolis for extra support.
For Grandma
1. Vthrive The Vitamin Shoppe brand Bioactive Once Daily Multivitamin for Women 45+
Michels’ multivitamin pick for women beyond their childbearing years pulls back on nutrients needed during menstruation (like iron). Meanwhile, it leans harder into nutrients that support top-priority health concerns, like eye and heart health.
2. Probiocare Adults 50+ Probiotic
As we age, the stress on our microbiome increases, which increases our probiotic needs, says Michels. She recommends this Probiocare supplement, which features Saccharomyces boulardii bacteria for additional gut support.
3. The Vitamin Shoppe brand Mushroom Complex
Cooney likes the blend of maitake, reishi, and shiitake in this mushroom complex supplement. Together, these classic mushrooms promote overall well-being and immunity in a very gentle way.
For Grandpa
1. Vthrive The Vitamin Shoppe brand Bioactive Once Daily Multivitamin For Men 45+
Michels’ multi pick for older men contains CoQ10 for cardiovascular support, bioactive B vitamins for energy, and lutein for eye health. It’s the complete formula for healthy aging.
2. Probiocare Prostate Support
This probiotic formula is specially-formulated for aging men. “I really like the Probiocare prostate support blend for Grandpa,” says Michels. “It includes saw palmetto, which is a wonderful prostate support herb.”
3. Herb Pharm Immune Season
If swallowing pills is a struggle, try this immune support spray from Herb Pharm. It’s made with a blend of elderberry, adaptogens, echinacea, and ginger to support immune health, and is easy to take.
For The Whole Family
1. The Vitamin Shoppe brand Liquid Vitamin D3 1,000 IU
Vitamin D is crucial for our ability to absorb calcium and regulate phosphorus, which affects everything from muscle function to mood and well-being. It’s also been shown to boost our immune health—making it one of the most important supplements for every member of the family.
“I typically recommend a total of 2,000 to 3,000 IU of vitamin D per day for adults,” says Michels. (Adults with a deficiency, minimal sun exposure, and immune or digestive issues may need more).
“Small kids need 400 IU per day, and their needs gradually increase with age,” she adds.
To meet their needs, Michels recommends each family member take the following amount of this liquid vitamin D:
Mom and Dad: 10 drops
Grandma and Grandpa: 5 drops
Child: 1-2 drops
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