Our registered dietitian tested 11 products to find the six best vitamin C supplements.(Photo illustration: Yahoo News; photos: Amazon)
When cold and flu season comes around, vitamin C supplements are top of mind for many people. While vitamin C certainly plays a role in immune health, the best vitamin C supplements can offer additional benefits, including improving iron absorption and supporting brain and heart health. However, before you add another pill to your daily regimen, it's important to note that most people don't need a vitamin C supplement, as it's naturally found in many fruits and vegetables. Citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers and kiwi fruit are among the top sources, but there are many others too.
So who are vitamin C supplements for? Thanks to its role in wound healing and immune function, Brynna Connor, MD, a board-certified family medicine physician, highlights that people recovering from surgery may be recommended to take a vitamin C supplement. She also puts smokers and those regularly exposed to secondhand smoke among those who may benefit. "Smoking increases oxidative stress, which depletes vitamin C levels faster," she says. Lastly, Connor adds older adults to the list, especially those who are hospitalized or in skilled nursing facilities, as they may be more susceptible to inadequate fruit and veggie intake.
As for taking vitamin C to avoid getting sick, we hate to burst your bubble, but evidence doesn't show that taking supplemental vitamin C will keep you from getting the most recent office bug — though it may help you feel better faster if you do get sick. "[Vitamin C] won't make you 'bulletproof' against colds, but consistent daily intake may modestly shorten duration or severity for some people," says Annie DePasquale, MD, a board-certified family medicine physician.
DePasquale emphasizes that "food should come first." Still, if you're looking for a little extra support to meet your vitamin C needs, we've got you covered. We spoke with four experts — two family medicine doctors and two registered dietitians — to learn what really matters when choosing a vitamin C supplement. With their insights and my own experience as a registered dietitian, I narrowed down the top products on the market and selected 11 to personally test. Keep reading to discover our picks for the six best vitamin C supplements of 2025.
A note on supplements
The products included on this list are dietary supplements. Statements about these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Dietary supplements are not appropriate for everyone and may interact with other supplements or medications, so talk to your healthcare provider before adding a dietary supplement to your routine.
Supplement form: Gummy | Type of magnesium: Magnesium citrate | Serving size: 3 gummies | Magnesium per serving: 300 mg | Other active ingredients: None
For those who struggle with pills or powders, Nordic Naturals Magnesium Gummies for Adults are the best gummy option because they combine convenience, quality and effectiveness in one easy-to-take supplement. These vegan-friendly gummies provide 300 mg of magnesium citrate, making them an easy way to boost magnesium without measuring powders or swallowing capsules.
Unlike many gummy vitamins that can be overly sweet or artificial-tasting, these have a lavender berry flavor that's pleasantly calming without being cloying. During testing, I found that after several nights of use, falling asleep became easier and tossing and turning decreased. In fact, after 6 months of regular use, the nights I forget to take it are noticeably less restful. Additionally, as someone with IBS, regular use of the supplement has improved my digestive health, making my bathroom visits more pleasant and regular.
Nordic Naturals stands out in the supplement space for its commitment to quality and transparency. Every product is third-party tested for purity and potency, with results available online so you have confidence in what you're taking.
One Amazon user neatly summed it up in their review: "First off I truly love this brand. Their quality is top notch. The taste is amazing. I feel the value of price is perfect. I use this product everyday and can feel a change in my mood. I deal with anxiety and this definitely helps me calm my brain in a positive and natural way."
Form: Capsule | Vitamin C form: Calcium ascorbate | Vitamin C per serving: 500 mg | Dosage: 1 capsule per day | Other active ingredients (serving strength): Calcium (55 mg), citrus bioflavonoid complex (10 mg)
Now Foods C-500 Calcium Ascorbate-C delivers 556% of your daily vitamin C needs in a form of vitamin C that's easy to absorb and gentle on the stomach. The one-a-day formulation is also affordable, yet rigorously tested in Now Foods' ISO-certified labs, earning it our pick as the best overall option. In addition to vitamin C, the supplement contains 55 mg of calcium (4% of the daily value, or DV) and citrus bioflavonoids — antioxidants found in citrus fruits with anti-inflammatory effects.
During testing, the capsules were easy to swallow, and I particularly liked that each dose provides just 500 mg of vitamin C — about half of what you often find in vitamin C supplements. Because vitamin C is water-soluble, excess amounts are excreted in the urine, meaning more isn't always better or necessary.
The supplement has over 1,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, with one customer saying that it's easy to tolerate, even on an empty stomach, while another appreciates that it doesn't cause heartburn, unlike other vitamin C products they've tried.
Form: Liquid | Vitamin C form: Ascorbic acid and sodium ascorbate | Vitamin C per serving: 1,000 mg | Dosage: 1 packet per day | Other active ingredients (serving strength): Bee propolis extract (100 mg)
These travel-friendly packets stand out from any other vitamin C supplement I've tried. Each one delivers 1,000 mg of vitamin C, along with raw honey and bee propolis extract — a substance bees use to line their hives and protect against germs. Like raw honey, bee propolis may support the immune system thanks to its antioxidant, antiviral and antibacterial properties.
While a high dose of vitamin C isn't necessary for everyone, it might be helpful when you're feeling run-down. A 2025 study found that taking 1,000 mg of vitamin C regularly may help shorten the duration of cold symptoms — if you start supplementing before you feel that first sniffle.
Beekeeper's Naturals Propolis Liposomal Vitamin C packets are easy to toss in a travel or work bag. The company recommends taking them straight from the packet or mixing them into a cool beverage. Since it's a liposomal formula — meaning the vitamin C is encapsulated in tiny fat spheres — avoid hot liquids or blenders, which can break down the delicate liposomes.
During testing, I liked the liquid's thin, smooth texture. The honey flavor was mild, with a slightly bitter aftertaste, though reviews are mixed on the taste. Each packet contains just 0.27 fluid ounces (8 mL), making it quick and convenient to take. Bonus: It has minimal ingredients and no artificial colors, flavors, preservatives or fillers.
One five-star Amazon reviewer writes, "I take these anytime I need a boost of Vitamin C, when I feel like I'm about to get sick, or I know I'm going somewhere that I'm likely to encounter more than average amount of germs! The kids think these taste like strong honey, I think it's more like a cough syrup taste. Either way, just down it and grab a drink of water, and you will be fine!"
Form: Capsule | Vitamin C form: Ascorbic acid | Vitamin C per serving: 1,000 mg | Dosage: 2 capsules per day | Other active ingredients: None
MegaFood Liposomal Vitamin C delivers a high dose of 1,000 mg — more than 1,000% of your daily needs — and it does so in a liposomal form, meaning the vitamin is encapsulated in tiny, fat-like droplets that may be easier for the body to absorb.
In addition to its potency and unique delivery system, this supplement is vegetarian-friendly and free of the top nine allergens. It's also manufactured in NSF-certified facilities and tested both in-house and by third-party labs to ensure label accuracy, adding extra reassurance about quality.
While it does require two capsules per day — unlike many others I tried — the capsules were easy to swallow, and I appreciated being able to see the liposomal liquid inside the clear capsule. This two-capsule serving also offers flexibility: As one Amazon reviewer notes, you can opt for just one capsule if you don't want or need the full 1,000 mg daily.
Beyond the dosing convenience, MegaFood also stands out for its commitment to sustainability. As part of its pledge to become a plastic-neutral company, its Liposomal Vitamin C is packaged in a glass jar rather than plastic.
Form: Powder | Vitamin C form: Ascorbic acid | Vitamin C per serving: 1,000 mg | Dosage: ¼ teaspoon once per day | Other active ingredients: None
Powder supplements are another good alternative for those who dislike swallowing pills, and The Vitamin Shoppe Vitamin C Powder is one of the best options. This unflavored powder packs 1,000 mg of vitamin C into a 1/4 teaspoon powder, which you can stir into virtually any beverage. That said, it does have a citrusy tang, so I wouldn't recommend mixing it into something like chocolate milk.
I first tried it in water and enjoyed the tart, citrusy flavor. I was also impressed by how quickly and easily it dissolved. Next, I mixed it into lemonade and couldn't even tell it was there. The powder format also makes it easy to adjust your dose — using, say, 1/8 teaspoon instead of a full 1/4. Just note that it doesn't come with a scoop. While that's a win for sustainability, it's not the most convenient, so you'll want to have a 1/4 teaspoon measure on hand.
This powder is free from gluten, dairy, soy, tree nuts, sugar and artificial flavors and colors. While it doesn't appear to contain animal products or byproducts, it's unclear whether it's suitable for vegan diets. For quality assurance, The Vitamin Shoppe Vitamin C Powder is third-party tested for purity and potency.
One Amazon reviewer calls it their "go-to vitamin C," adding, "This is my favorite vitamin C powder. Great price, little taste."
Form: Liquid | Vitamin C form: Ascorbic acid | Vitamin C per serving: 500 mg | Dosage: 1/2 tablespoon (7.5 mL) per day | Other active ingredients (serving strength): Vitamin E (4.5 mg), liposomal proprietary blend (4 g)
Mary Ruth's Organics Liposomal Vitamin C is one of the best liquid vitamin C options: It's formulated for optimal absorption and free of artificial additives. It's also vegan-friendly, third-party tested for label accuracy and tested for 200-plus environmental contaminants. In addition to 500 mg of vitamin C, the supplement includes 4.5 mg of vitamin E — another essential nutrient involved in immune health.
The liquid is packaged in a squeeze bottle, which helps minimize spills while measuring. The tricky part is that the dose is 1/2 tablespoon, which isn't always included in a standard set of measuring spoons. As for taste, I'll admit that it wasn't my favorite at first: It's strong and a bit medicinal. However, the creamsicle-inspired flavor grew on me once I knew what to expect.
It's also worth noting that each serving contains 70 calories, 8 grams of carbs and 4 grams of fat per serving, which may not fit into certain diets. That said, reviews are overwhelmingly positive. One happy reviewer writes, "Definitely was a little skeptical at first, but WOW! The taste is so delicious, and even the texture of it is not bad at all."
Here's a quick look at how our top picks compare:
Product | Dosage | Vitamin C dose | Vitamin C form | Other active ingredients |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 capsule/day | 500 mg | Calcium ascorbate | Calcium, citrus bioflavonoid complex | |
1 liquid packet/day | 1,000 mg | Ascorbic acid and sodium ascorbate | Bee propolis extract | |
2 capsules/day | 1,000 mg | Ascorbic acid | None | |
2 gummies/day | 1,000 mg | L-ascorbic acid | None | |
1/4 teaspoon/day | 1,000 mg | Ascorbic acid | None | |
1/2 tablespoon/day | 500 mg | Ascorbic acid | Vitamin E, liposomal proprietary blend |
Vitamin C needs vary based on sex and whether you're pregnant or chestfeeding. Here are the recommended dietary allowances (RDAs) for vitamin C in adults:
Males: 90 mg per day
Females: 75 mg per day
During pregnancy: 85 mg per day
While lactating: 120 mg per day
Because of smoking's effect on vitamin C levels, it's recommended that people who smoke consume an additional 35 mg of vitamin C per day.
Vitamin C deficiency is rare, but it does happen. According to the National Institutes of Health, these symptoms could indicate vitamin C deficiency:
Fatigue
Malaise
Inflammation of the gums
Petechiae, or tiny spots of bleeding under the skin
Bruising
Purpura, a reddish-purplish discoloration of the skin
Joint pain
Poor wound healing
Corkscrew hairs
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's worth making an appointment with your doctor or other health care professional to determine the root cause.
When shopping for vitamin C supplements, you'll likely see a few different forms listed on supplement labels. Here's what to know about three of the most common:
Ascorbic acid: Ascorbic acid is the active form of vitamin C and the one you'll likely see most often in supplements. According to registered dietitian Raksha Shah, MA, this form is often recommended because it's the most well-researched.
Buffered vitamin C: These forms of vitamin C combine ascorbic acid with a mineral salt (usually calcium, magnesium or potassium). According to Andrew Akhaphong, a registered dietitian at Mackenthun's Fine Foods, this helps make the supplement less acidic and easier on the stomach. An example of buffered vitamin C is calcium ascorbate, which is found in our best overall pick.
Liposomal vitamin C: In this form, vitamin C is encapsulated in tiny fat droplets, which are thought to protect vitamin C during digestion so that more vitamin C is able to make it into your bloodstream. While there are some small studies to support this theory, more research still needs to be done.
Trying to determine the best vitamin C for you? Here are some key considerations to help you choose:
Vitamin C form: For "high bioavailability at a reasonable cost," Shah recommends looking for a supplement containing ascorbic acid. However, if you have a sensitive stomach or are prone to heartburn, Akhaphong says you may want to go with a buffered option instead.
Supplement form: Vitamin C supplements come in a variety of forms, including capsules, tablets, gummies, powders and liquids. Which one to take ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Dosage: How much vitamin C to take in supplement form depends on your diet and health needs. The best way to determine your optimal dose is by talking with a health care professional. That said, for most healthy adults, high-dose vitamin C supplements are typically unnecessary. "The goal isn't megadoses — it's just reliably reaching the daily requirement," says DePasquale.
Additives: When possible, opt for a supplement containing few, if any, artificial additives, like colors or preservatives. If you have food allergies or certain dietary preferences, make sure the supplement you're considering aligns with your needs.
Other active ingredients: Some vitamin C supplements include other nutrients, like vitamin E or zinc. While these nutrients can offer additional benefits for immune system support, they may not be necessary or appropriate for everyone — especially if you're already getting them in other supplements or in adequate amounts through food.
Certifications: To ensure that a supplement contains what it claims to on the label, Akhaphong advises looking for products that are tested for purity and potency, ideally by third-party organizations like NSF or the United States Pharmacopeia (USP).
Price: You don't have to spend a lot to get a quality vitamin C product. Look for an option that fits your budget without compromising on quality.
To determine the best vitamin C supplements, I consulted four experts: Two board-certified family physicians and two registered dietitians. As a dietitian myself, I combined our experts' insights with my expertise to evaluate the top vitamin C supplements available. Using the following criteria, I choose 11 products to test and six as the best overall picks:
Third-party testing: I prioritized supplements that are tested by third-party organizations or ISO-certified labs to verify that they contain the types and amounts of ingredients listed on the label — and nothing else.
Form of vitamin C: Since there are pros to different forms, I included a variety in testing.
Supplement format: Vitamin C supplements come in a variety of supplement forms, so I made sure to include capsules, gummies, liquids and powders in testing.
Taste: I tasted every product myself and noted whether it was tasteless, pleasantly flavored or tough to get down.
Ease of use: I considered how convenient each supplement was to take, whether at home or on the go — and whether it required additional tools like measuring spoons.
Other ingredients: I gave preference to products with short ingredient lists and minimal fillers and artificial additives.
While these supplements didn't make our top picks, they're still high-quality options that might be a great fit for your needs. Here's a quick look at the other contenders:
Nature Made Maximum Strength Vitamin C: Nature Made's vitamin C gummy is third-party tested, gluten-free, and free from artificial flavors, synthetic dyes and artificial sweeteners. On top of that, these gummies were tasty. However, this one didn't make the cut because of its high added sugar content: 7 grams per serving, compared to just 2 grams in the Nordic Natural gummies.
Puori C3: C3 is an effervescent vitamin C drink tablet that provides 500 mg of vitamin C, plus 72% of the daily value for zinc. It’s free from artificial additives and third-party tested for purity and potency. I liked the orange-mango flavor and found the tube of tablets easy to stash in a gym or work bag. That said, the tablets can take up to 10 minutes to fully dissolve, which makes them a bit less convenient than some other options.
Body Bio Liposomal Vitamin C: Body Bio's Vitamin C contains 1,000 mg of vitamin C per serving and is formulated for optimal absorption. The capsules themselves were easy to take, and the supplement is tested both in-house and by third-party labs to ensure label accuracy. The downside? This supplement is pricy. One bottle costs $40, about $1.33 per serving.
HUA Whole Food Vitamin C: This supplement is vegan-friendly, gluten-free and third-party tested. Each serving delivers 500 mg of vitamin C, some of which is derived from a whole food blend of 23 different fruits and vegetables. Also included is a probiotic and enzyme blend. While probiotics are known to be beneficial for gut health, digestive enzyme supplements aren't necessary for most healthy adults.
New Chapter Fermented Vitamin C: This whole food-based supplement contains 250 mg of vitamin C and was a top contender for our best list, as it's organic, vegan-friendly, third-party tested and free from artificial colors and flavors. However, the tablet is on the bigger side and wasn't the easiest to swallow.
No, vitamin C supplements have not been shown to prevent or cure the common cold. However, when taken regularly before you feel sick, reviews published in 2023 and 2025 suggest that vitamin C may help reduce the length and severity of cold symptoms.
According to the National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements, it's unclear whether different forms of vitamin C vary significantly in their absorption rate. While some research suggests that liposomal vitamin C may be better absorbed, further studies are needed to confirm.
Our experts agree that it's best to get vitamin C from your diet. Citrus foods, strawberries, bell peppers kiwifruit and broccoli are all excellent sources. That said, vitamin C supplements might be necessary in some cases, especially for smokers, older adults, people with limited diets or surgical patients.
Yes, too much vitamin C can cause side effects. Shah notes that this is usually due to excessive intake, usually above 2,000 mg per day. The most common side effects are gastrointestinal, including nausea, diarrhea, heartburn and stomach cramps. High doses may also increase your risk of kidney stones, especially if you have a history of them. Lastly, because vitamin C can interact with certain medications, it's always a good idea to talk with a health care professional if you're currently taking any over-the-counter or prescription drugs.
Annie DePasquale, MD, board-certified family medicine physician and founder and CEO at Collaborating Docs
Brynna Connor, MD, board-certified family medicine physician and health care ambassador at NorthWestPharmacy.com
Andrew Akhaphong, DCN, MS, RD, LD, registered dietitian at Mackenthun's Fine Foods
Raksha Shah, MA, RD, registered dietitian at Wisebite Nutrition
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
