There was a time in the early 2000s when vitamin drinks were all the rage.
Bottles of Glacéau’s VitaminWater were stacked in celebrity fridges glimpsed fleetingly on MTV Cribs tours and featured in glaringly obvious product placements throughout our favourite CW shows (Gossip Girl being the most frequent culprit).
The CW/ Gossip Girl
However, Glacéau is a subsidiary of Coca-Cola and VitaminWater was quickly declared to be less rich in vitamins and more chock-full of sugar, thereby losing its status as a health-conscious drink. That’s why you’ll struggle to get your paws on a bottle of the well-marketed elixir these days.
Yet new vitamin drinks are making a comeback as we progress into a health-conscious, wellness-focused zeitgeist. From specialised, electrolyte-boosting powders to nutrient-rich juices which promise to deliver all the daily vitamins you could possibly need, we’re spoiled for choice.
We spoke to Aimee O’Keeffe, Performance Nutritionist and Vitamin Well Ambassador for insight into the re-emerging world of vitamin drinks.
Are vitamin drinks healthy?
“They can be if consumed in the correct way in regards to moderation and if they address potential deficiencies. They can be a way to stay hydrated, enjoy the taste and improve health. They can be beneficial if you have a specific diet you follow or are a fussy eater, whereby the overall consumption of vitamins and minerals may be limited.“
What are the differences between liquid vitamins/supplements and those in capsule/powder form?
“The absorption rate of liquid supplements is often quicker in the system and can be good for people with digestive issues. Capsule forms have a longer shelf life and are often more transportable.”
Can you get all the vitamins you need from food alone?
“You can get most, if not all, of the essential vitamins you need from a balanced and varied diet. Whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, dairy or dairy alternatives, whole grains, and healthy fats, provide a wide range of vitamins and minerals necessary for optimal health.
“However, some negatives can be if people have dietary restrictions, this will need extra attention. Food prep and cooking can decrease the nutrient content of some foods.”
Can you consume too many vitamins? If so, what happens if you do?
“Yes, you can consume too many vitamins, which can result in issues relating to the bioavailability of the vitamins. Bioavailability refers to the proportion of a nutrient that is absorbed and utilised by the body. Too much of one can cause harm and can cause toxicity in the body.”
Should you take vitamins every day?
“If you have deficiencies it would be recommended to take them daily where needed. For instance, if you don’t like certain foods which may be high in certain types of vitamins and that you may be missing out on. Or, if you’re vegan/pescatarian which naturally eliminates vitamins/minerals from the diet.”
Do you think vitamin drinks contain adequate vitamins?
“Yes, some on the market do and some don’t. So it is important to take note of the nutritional value before consuming.”
Is there anything else besides sugar content that we should watch out for in vitamin drinks?
- “Look for natural ingredients rather than synthetic when possible
- Look for low or no artificial sweeteners
- Hydration content ie electrolyte content
- Look for artificial flavours and colours which have an impact on allergies and sensitivities for some people
- Calorie content of drinks: These can go under the radar for people who are trying to be healthy and calories in these drinks can add up and potentially cause accidental weight gain.”
Can vitamin drinks support athletes?
“Yes, they can. As long as the athlete has been professionally spoken to regarding their overall health status these types of drinks can help support optimal health outcomes alongside professional advice.”
Keep scrolling for a round-up of the best vitamin drinks available to buy in the UK. Here’s to a nutrient-rich summer.
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