Tablets vs Gummies enriched with vitamin C and zinc

Vitamin C is renowned for its antioxidant properties, which help fight free radicals and protect cells against oxidative damage. It also plays a key role in the production of collagen, which is essential for healthy skin, bones and blood vessels. Zinc, for its part, is a mineral that is essential for numerous enzymatic reactions in the body. It contributes to optimal functioning of the immune system, wound healing, protein synthesis and reproductive health, among others. Faced with the diversity of supplements available on the market, it is important to choose the form best suited to our needs and preferences. The aim of this comparison between vitamin C and zinc-enriched tablets and gummies is to analyse the advantages and disadvantages of each format, to help consumers make an informed decision for their health.

What are vitamin C and zinc-enriched tablets and gummies?

Roles and health benefits of vitamin C and zinc

Vitamin C and zinc are essential nutrients with a wide range of health benefits. Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is involved in many bodily functions, including strengthening the immune system, promoting cardiovascular health and stimulating collagen production for healthy, glowing skin. As for zinc, it plays an active role in the proper functioning of the immune system, wound healing, reproductive health and the regulation of carbohydrate, lipid and protein metabolism.

Food sources

Vitamin C is found mainly in fresh fruit and vegetables such as citrus fruit (oranges, lemons, kiwis), berries (strawberries, raspberries), peppers, tomatoes and spinach. Zinc is found in a variety of foods, including red meat, seafood, nuts, seeds, legumes and fortified cereal products.

Recommended daily requirements for vitamin C and zinc

Daily vitamin C and zinc requirements vary according to each individual's age, sex, state of health and level of physical activity. In general, adults need around 75 to 90 milligrams of vitamin C a day, and 8 to 11 milligrams of zinc a day. It is advisable to consult a health professional to determine specific needs and adjust intake according to individual circumstances.

Vitamin C and zinc fortified tablets are solid forms of dietary supplements, generally made from vitamin C and zinc powders combined with compression agents and excipients. They are available in a variety of sizes, shapes and colours, and can be coated to make them easier to swallow.

The advantages of zinc and vitamin C tablets are as follows:

• Practicality and ease of dosing the tablets: The tablets are easy to carry and consume, making them convenient for everyday use at home or when travelling.
• Tablet stability and long shelf life: Tablets are generally stable and have an extended shelf life, making them convenient for long-term storage without risk of deterioration.
• Variety of tablet formulations and strengths: Tablets are available in a wide range of formulas and dosages, allowing consumers to choose the one that best suits their specific vitamin C and zinc needs.

The disadvantages of these tablets are as follows:

• Time taken to digest the tablets: The tablets may require some time to dissolve in the stomach before the nutrients are released and absorbed into the body, which can delay their beneficial effects.
• Absorption of tablets into the body: The bioavailability of nutrients in tablets can vary depending on their formulation and the body's ability to absorb them effectively, which can limit their effectiveness compared to other forms of supplements.
• Taste and texture of tablets: Some consumers may find the taste or texture of tablets unpleasant, which can make it difficult to take them regularly, particularly for people with taste sensitivities or swallowing problems.

Gummies enriched with vitamin C and zinc

Vitamin C and zinc-enriched gummies are food supplements in the form of jelly sweets, often flavoured and coloured for a pleasant sensory experience. Their composition generally includes vitamin C and zinc concentrates, combined with gelling agents, sweeteners, natural or artificial flavours and texturising agents.

This form of gummies therefore offers a number of advantages, including:

• Attractive taste and texture of gummies: Gummies are appreciated for their sweet taste and soft textures, making them pleasant to consume for adults and children.
• Easy to take for children and people who have difficulty swallowing tablets with gummies: Gummies are a practical option for children and adults with swallowing problems, as they can be chewed and swallowed easily without the need for water.
• Potentially less irritating to the stomach with gummies: Some users find that gummies are gentler on the stomach than tablets, which may reduce the risk of nausea or heartburn.

There are also a few disadvantages to be aware of with gummies:

• Risk of over-consumption due to the pleasant taste of gummies: The sweet, appealing taste of gummies can lead to unintentional over-consumption, which can compromise nutritional balance and increase calorie intake.
• Lower stability of gummies compared to tablets: Gummies may be less stable and have a shorter shelf life than tablets, which may require quicker use to avoid spoilage.
• Added sugar content of gummies: Some gummies contain significant amounts of added sugar to enhance their taste, which can be a concern for those who watch their sugar intake or have oral health concerns.

Which format should I choose between tablets and gummies?

The choice between gummies and tablets for your zinc and vitamin C supplement depends on a number of factors: 

• Personal preferences: The choice between tablets and gummies may depend on individual preferences in terms of taste, texture and ease of ingestion. Some people prefer the convenience of tablets, while others are attracted by the flavour and playful texture of gummies.
• Specific nutritional needs: It's important to take into account the specific nutritional needs of each individual. For example, people who have difficulty absorbing certain nutrients may prefer gummies because of their potentially higher bioavailability. In addition, some tablets may contain extra ingredients to meet specific needs, such as antioxidants or amino acids.
• Lifestyle and habits: Lifestyle and daily habits can also influence the choice between tablets and gummies. For example, gummies may be more convenient for people on the move or for children, while tablets may suit those who prefer a more traditional approach to dietary supplements.

There is no single answer to choosing between tablets and gummies, as this will depend on individual needs and preferences. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional or nutritionist for personalised advice based on your specific situation. It is also important to read product labels carefully to understand their composition, dosage and any additives. Finally, it is advisable to follow the dosage recommendations given by the manufacturer and not to exceed the recommended nutritional intake for vitamin C and zinc.

As a nutrition expert, it's important to stress that there is no universal answer as to the best choice between tablets and gummies. Each individual is unique and what works for one may not be suitable for another. It is therefore advisable to take individual needs and preferences into account, and to consult a healthcare professional for personalised advice.