The 10 Best Vitamin C Supplements of 2024
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Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help reduce inflammation and may lower the risk of heart disease by decreasing LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels, raising HDL (“good”) cholesterol levels, and lowering blood pressure. According to registered dietitian Michelle Saari, MSc, RD, some research even suggests that it may help reduce the risk of certain cancers.
While many foods are rich in vitamin C, supplements can provide extra support, especially if you don’t eat many fruits and vegetables. They’re also helpful if you start to feel a cold coming on or during travel when you’re more at risk because they can reduce the length and severity of upper respiratory tract infections and the common cold. Though vitamin C deficiency is rare in the U.S., many people can benefit from a boost of this essential nutrient for its antioxidant properties. And supplementing in expert-recommended doses is generally safe for most people.
We researched dozens of products on the market to find the best vitamin C supplements. We also spoke with experts who shared the benefits of vitamin C, what to look for in a vitamin C supplement, what dosage to take, and which form is best for absorption.
Dietary supplements are minimally regulated by the FDA and may or may not be suitable for you. They also may interact with other supplements or medications you are taking. Our team of medical experts reviews supplements according to our rigorous dietary supplement methodology. We also had a registered dietitian review this page for its scientific accuracy. Please always speak with a healthcare provider to discuss any supplements you plan on taking.
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Why We Like It
Nature Made’s 500 mg Vitamin C softgels are our top pick because they’re third-party tested and contain a relatively moderate dose of vitamin C. Plus, they’re accessible and affordable. They’re made with ascorbic acid, the most common form of vitamin C in supplements, and it’s the same form you get from foods like oranges and bell peppers, says Destini Moody, RD, CSSD, registered dietitian, founder of The Athlete’s Dietitian.
We like that these provide 500 milligrams (mg) per softgel, which is 556% Daily Value for adults, considered a moderate amount of supplemental vitamin C suitable for most people. You can always take multiple softgels if a healthcare professional recommends a higher dose to correct a deficiency.
Nature Made is a trusted supplement brand, with most products being USP-verified. USP is a third-party testing company that ensures supplements contain no harmful contaminants or substances. They also ensure that the dosage listed on the label is accurate.
It’s Worth Noting
This supplement is made with gelatin and beeswax, so people following a vegan diet may want to opt for a different, vegan-friendly option.
Product Details:
- Servings per Container: 60
- Serving Size: 1 softgel
- Vitamin C per Serving: 500 mg
- Third-Party Tested: Yes, USP
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Why We Like It
Swanson C-500 is third-party tested, affordable, and widely accessible. Each capsule contains 500 mg (556% Daily Value for adults) of vitamin C, a moderate dose suitable for most people.
Like our best overall pick—Nature Made’s Vitamin C, 500 mg—and most other vitamin C supplements, this one uses ascorbic acid. It’s a form of vitamin C that’s just as bioavailable as food sources of vitamin C. This supplement is also third-party tested, so you aren’t sacrificing quality for cost.
It’s Worth Noting
It contains gelatin, so it is not suitable for vegans. The capsule is also larger, so it may be difficult to swallow for some people.
Product Details:
- Servings per Container: 100
- Serving Size: 1 capsule
- Vitamin C per Serving: 500 mg
- Third-Party Tested: Yes
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Why We Like It
We recommend Emergen-C’s Crystals, a third-party tested supplement that includes vitamin C, zinc, manganese, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12, for extra immune support when traveling. These micronutrients play an important role in immune function, and this supplement may help add extra protection during cold and flu season or when traveling when you are more susceptible to colds.
A relatively small study of 94 people found that taking 1,000 mg of vitamin C and 10 mg of zinc together reduced the severity of symptoms of the common cold compared to a placebo with five days of treatment. That’s the exact dose of zinc and vitamin C in the recommended serving size of two stick packs of Emergen-C Crystals daily.
We also love the unique form of this supplement. If you loved Pop Rocks candy as a kid, this is the supplement equivalent. You pour these crystals into your mouth, and they gently pop; no water is needed! Just be careful to lock them away so your kids don’t mix them up with candy and eat them for fun.
It’s Worth Noting
If you’re taking a multivitamin or other supplements with these vitamins, be sure to check the labels to ensure that you don’t exceed the ULs for any of the vitamins or minerals in the supplement.
It’s also worth noting that each two-stick serving has six grams of added sugars. This is not a significant concern for most people, but it may be important to note for those keeping track of added sugar, especially if you take more than one serving a day.
Product Details:
- Servings per Container: 28
- Serving Size: 2 stick packs for children and adults age 14+
- Vitamin C per Serving: 1,000 mg
- Third-Party Tested: Yes, ConsumerLab.com
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Why We Like It
LivOn Labs Lypo-Spheric Liposomal Vitamin C is a high-potency, highly absorbable vitamin C supplement and is a great option if you’re not a fan of swallowing pills. To take it, just mix one liquid packet with 1-3 ounces of a cold beverage of your choice. Each liquid packet contains 1,000 mg of vitamin C (1,111% of your daily value), giving you a high dose for an added immune boost. Plus, this supplement is tested both in-house and by a third party to ensure purity and potency.
Liposomal vitamin C may be easier for your body to absorb compared to other types of vitamin C. Liposomes act like a protective layer around the vitamin C, allowing it to bypass the normal absorption methods in the digestive tract. This means that because liposomal supplements aren’t broken down the same way in the stomach, they may cause fewer digestive issues while providing better overall absorption. In fact, a 2021 randomized control trial—the golden standard in research—found liposomal vitamin C to be 1.77 times more bioavailable (or better absorbed) than standard vitamin C.
It’s Worth Noting
This supplement contains phospholipids derived from soy, so it is not suitable for those with soy allergies. It’s also one of the more expensive vitamin C supplements on our list.
Product Details
- Servings per Container: 30 individual packets
- Serving Size: 1 packet
- Vitamin C per Serving: 1,000 mg
- Third-Party Tested: Yes
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Why We Like It
Dr. Mercola’s Liposomal Vitamin C has the same benefits as the liquid liposomal on our list, providing enhanced absorption but in a capsule form. One serving is two capsules containing 1,000 mg (1,111% DV), but you can take one capsule if you have lower vitamin C needs.
Although liposomal forms of vitamin C tend to be more expensive than other forms of vitamin C, this one is one of the more affordable options on the market. This product has strong third-party testing and is NSF Certified.
It’s Worth Noting
In 2021, Dr. Mercola received a warning letter from the FDA because there was a claim that this supplement could prevent, treat, diagnose, or cure COVID-19 on the website, which supplement manufacturers are not allowed to do. Be aware that the National Institutes of Health’s COVID-19 Treatment Guidelines state that there’s not enough evidence to recommend for or against using vitamin C as a treatment for COVID-19.
Product Details:
- Servings per Container: 90
- Serving Size: 2 capsules
- Vitamin C per Serving: 1,000 mg
- Third-Party Tested: Yes, NSF
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Why We Like It
Many vitamin C supplements start at 500 mg, but Nordic Naturals’ Vitamin C Gummies for Sport have a lower dose of 250 mg per serving (278% DV). These gummy supplements are a good option for the average person who eats enough vitamin C from foods but wants a little boost. They’re also NSF Certified for Sport, so you know the label is accurate and free from harmful contaminants and banned substances.
We like that these tasty chewable gummies work for those who struggle to swallow pills. They use ascorbic acid, a tried and true form of vitamin C with similar bioavailability to food sources.
Unlike other vitamin C gummies on the market, Nordic Naturals’ Vitamin C Gummies are vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free. So, not only are they a great choice for athletes but they work for various dietary needs as well.
It’s Worth Noting
As is the case for many gummy supplements, these contain added sugars—four grams per serving. Also, if you’re looking for a higher dose of vitamin C, you’ll have to take several gummies.
Product Details:
- Servings per Container: 60
- Serving Size: 2 gummies
- Vitamin C per Serving: 250 mg
- Third-Party Tested: Yes, NSF
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Why We Recommend It
Airborne Immune Support Tablets are a great chewable option that provides comprehensive immune support. They contain 1,000 mg (1,111% DV) of vitamin C, plus immune-boosting nutrients and electrolytes, including zinc, selenium, magnesium, manganese, and vitamins A and E (which both have antioxidant properties). Additionally, this supplement contains an herbal blend of echinacea, ginger, and other potential immune-supporting herbs.
These tasty chewables are orange-flavored and sweetened with sugar (3 grams per serving) and the artificial sweetener sucralose. They also come in gummy and dissolvable effervescent forms.
It’s Worth Noting
One serving is four tablets, which can feel like a lot to take. It also contains artificial flavorings and sweeteners (sucralose), which some may choose to avoid. Lastly, because it contains multiple vitamins and minerals, if you take other supplements like a multivitamin, be sure you are not exceeding the Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) for any nutrient. If you take any medications, be sure they do not interact with the herbs in these tablets.
Product Details
- Servings per Container: 116 tablets
- Serving Size: 4 tablets
- Vitamin C per Serving: 1,000 mg
- Third-Party Tested: No, none listed
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Why We Like It
Mary Ruth’s Vitamin C Drops are USDA Organic, third-party tested, and the dropper allows you to customize your dose. One serving is 4 mL, which provides 90mg (100% DV) of vitamin C, but you can easily adjust the dose based on your needs. You can take it directly by mouth or add it to another liquid like juice, which works well for those who don’t like to swallow pills.
The liquid form is kid-friendly, so you can share it with your kids aged 4 years and up instead of purchasing separate supplements if you want to boost their vitamin C. Be sure to speak with a trusted healthcare provider about your kids’ vitamin C needs since kids need less vitamin C than adults.
The vitamin C in this supplement comes from organic acerola fruit extract, a natural form of vitamin C. It’s also vegan and free from gluten, wheat, corn, soy, nuts, and added sugar.
It’s Worth Noting
This supplement is more costly than others on our list. While the liquid form offers nice versatility of dosage and ease of consumption, it can be harder to measure the exact dose. Also, it has an orange-vanilla flavor, which not everyone may enjoy.
Product Details:
- Servings per Container: 30
- Serving Size: 4 mL
- Vitamin C per Serving: 90 mg
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Why We Like It
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Powder has 100% Daily Value (DV) of vitamin C and 20 grams of collagen peptides. Both vitamin C and collagen are essential for collagen formation, so this combination can help to optimize skin health. Collagen is a protein that our bodies produce naturally, but we produce less as we age, so a collagen supplement may be beneficial. Not getting enough vitamin C can cause impaired collagen synthesis, leading to weakened connective tissue.
Some studies have found that collagen supplements reduce wrinkles and promote skin elasticity. This collagen powder also contains hyaluronic acid, which may support skin elasticity and reduce wrinkles.
We like that this powder can be mixed with hot or cold liquids. It’s flavorless, so you can add it to smoothies, coffee, or any other drink without altering the flavor. It’s also NSF Certified, giving you peace of mind that it is third-party tested for purity and ingredient accuracy.
It’s Worth Noting
Collagen is a protein source but isn’t a complete protein with all nine essential amino acids. If you’re looking for a protein powder to support workouts or help you meet your protein needs, we recommend finding one with all nine essential amino acids like whey protein, soy protein, or a combination of plant proteins. It’s also worth noting that collagen comes from animals, so this product is not suitable for people following a vegan diet.
Product Details:
- Servings per Container: 28
- Serving Size: 3 tablespoons
- Vitamin C per Serving: 90 mg
- Third-Party Tested: Yes, NSF
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Why We Recommend It
ROAR Complete Hydration Powder Plus provides comprehensive immune and energy support and an electrolyte boost to optimize your hydration. It contains 1000 mg of vitamin C (1100% Daily Value) and 11 mg of zinc (100% DV), two key nutrients to support your immune system. It also contains 110 mg of sodium and a small amount of potassium to help replenish key electrolytes and accelerate hydration. In addition to immune-supporting and hydration-boosting nutrients, it contains 100% DV of several B vitamins, including niacin, B4, B12, and pantothenic acid, which can help support energy production.
Our experts love the taste of the Berry Lemonade and Strawberry Watermelon flavors and note that they mix well with water and have a smooth texture. It’s sweetened with stevia, monk fruit, and a small amount of cane sugar (1 g of added sugar per serving), with no artificial flavors or colorings.
It’s Worth Noting
If you take a multivitamin with vitamin C, B vitamins, and zinc, be mindful of not exceeding the Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) of any of these nutrients.
Our team works hard to be transparent about why we recommend certain supplements; you can read more about our dietary supplement methodology here.
We support supplements that are evidence-based and rooted in science. We value certain product attributes that we find to be associated with the highest quality products. We prioritize products that are third-party tested and certified by one of three independent, third-party certifiers: USP, NSF, or ConsumerLab.com.
It’s important to note that the FDA does not review dietary supplements for safety and effectiveness before they go to market. Our team of experts has created a detailed, science-backed methodology to choose the supplements we recommend and gives more details on what we specifically look for in supplements.
We interviewed three dietitians to get their advice on health benefits of vitamin C, what to look for in vitamin C supplements, and who can most benefit from them.
- Michelle Saari MSc, RD, health and nutrition specialist at eHealth Project
- Destini Moody RD, CSSD, founder of The Athlete’s Dietitian and expert at Garage Gym Reviews
- Sarah Davis, MS, RDN, New Jersey-based dietitian at Rutgers-University Behavioral Health Care
Vitamin C can be found in various forms: ascorbic acid, sodium ascorbate, calcium ascorbate, liposomal vitamin C, or combinations of the above. The experts we spoke with recommend ascorbic acid for its affordability, absorption, and accessibility. Sarah Davis, MS, RDN, says ascorbic acid is the most common, and our bodies absorb it just as well as vitamin C from food. Some people find that the ascorbate forms are easier on the stomach than ascorbic acid since they’re not as acidic.
More recently, research suggests that liposomal vitamin C may be better absorbed than non-liposomal vitamin C. However, more research is needed to confirm these preliminary findings.
It is essential to carefully read the ingredient list and nutrition facts panel of a supplement to know which ingredients and how much of each ingredient is included, relative to the recommended daily value of that ingredient. Please bring the supplement label to a healthcare provider to review the different ingredients contained in the supplement and any potential interactions between these ingredients and other supplements and medications you are taking.
Softgel or capsule forms of vitamin C often have gelatin, which isn’t suitable for those following a vegan diet.
Some vitamin C supplements contain other nutrients that may or may not have evidence-based benefits on immune health. Many herbal additives are not backed by research, and supplements with herbal ingredients tend not to be third-party tested. If a vitamin C supplement has other vitamins or minerals, be mindful not to go over the UL for these nutrients if you take a multivitamin or other supplements.
Your vitamin C needs depend on age, sex, smoking status, whether you’re pregnant or lactating, and overall health status. Taking a low- or moderate-dose vitamin C supplement daily is safe for most people. Because vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin, your body will excrete any excess in your urine if you consume too much. Here are the recommended dietary allowances (RDAs) for vitamin C from food and supplementation combined for adults 19 years and older: 90 mg for males, 75 mg for females, 85 mg if pregnant, and 120 mg if lactating.
The Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) for vitamin C (from both food and supplements) for adults 19 years and older is 2,000 mg per day. While excess vitamin C gets excreted in your urine, it may cause unpleasant gastrointestinal side effects like diarrhea, nausea, abdominal cramps, and other potentially more serious side effects to your health. Plus, Moody notes, “When doses exceed 1,000 milligrams [for adults], science has shown that absorption decreases by almost half as the intestines become oversaturated with the nutrient.”
“The biggest risk is in those with kidney disease or hemochromatosis as Vitamin C can increase the risk of kidney stones and excess iron absorption, respectively,” says Moody. Vitamin C supplements should also be used with caution for people with diabetes, as they can raise blood sugars. Those taking statin medication should also consult a healthcare professional before taking them.
The timing of vitamin C supplement intake generally doesn’t impact its absorption. We absorb vitamin C quite quickly since it’s water-soluble, says Saari. For the best health benefits, she recommends having it with a source of non-heme iron to enhance iron absorption.
When we consume too much vitamin C at once, we tend to excrete the excess in our urine. So, Moody recommends splitting up your vitamin C supplement intake to enhance absorption. For example, if you’re taking 1,000 mg total, she suggests taking 500 mg in the morning with breakfast and 500 mg at night with dinner.
To prevent a cold, it’s best to take vitamin C regularly since it may slightly help reduce the length of your cold and the severity of symptoms. If you don’t take it until you have a cold, it likely won’t have any positive effect on your cold.
Isabel Vasquez RD, LDN is a registered dietitian, freelance health and nutrition writer, and the founder of Nourishing Narratives LLC. Her work is especially focused on helping individuals divest from a one-size-fits-all approach to health and connect with their unique needs. In her work as a dietitian, she regularly examines supplements to ensure they are high-quality before recommending them to her patients, clients, and readers.
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