We Asked Registered Dietitians What Vitamin C Supplements They Recommend — Here’s What They Said
To make your search easier, we compiled this list of the best vitamin C supplements, each carefully reviewed by a team of registered dietitians. We selected these options based on quality, ingredients, and their specific benefits. We also considered factors like potency and form (such as capsules, gummies, or powders). Whether you want to support immunity or glowing skin, these expert-reviewed picks have you covered.
Our Top Picks for the Best Vitamin C Supplements
- Best Gummy: New Chapter Immune Defense Vitamin C+
- Best Chewable: Natures Plus Orange Juice Vitamin C Supplement
- Best Powder: Pure Encapsulations Buffered Ascorbic Acid Powder
- Best High Dose: Designs for Health Vitamin C
- Best With Other Immune Nutrients: Thorne Vitamin C With Flavonoids
- Best Liposomal: BodyBio Liposomal Vitamin C
- Best Budget-Friendly: Kirkland Signature C
- Best Liquid: Rho Nutrition Liposomal Vitamin C
- Best for Skin Health: NOW Liposomal Vitamin C
- Best for Travel: Beekeeper’s Naturals Propolis + Vitamin C
- Best for Kids: Renzo’s Invincible Vitamin C
When to Consult Your Doctor?
Everyday Health recommends speaking with your healthcare provider before adding any supplement to your diet to make sure it is safe and appropriate for your individual health needs.
While vitamin C is generally considered safe (even in higher doses), it’s essential to ensure that supplementation aligns with your health background and goals. Certain individuals may need extra caution when adding vitamin C to their diet. For example, those with a history of kidney stones, individuals managing chronic medical conditions like kidney disease, or people taking specific medications that might interact with vitamin C should consult a healthcare provider first. It’s also important to consider personal needs, like sensitivity to specific ingredients or a preference for allergen-free options.
If you’re unsure how much vitamin C is right for you or have questions about potential contraindications, a quick check-in with your doctor can give you peace of mind and help you make the best decision for your health.

Best Gummy
New Chapter Immune Defense Vitamin C+
Pros
- Vegan-friendly, tasty gummy
- Includes zinc for immune support
- Prebiotic inulin supports gut health
- Third-party tested
Cons
- Contains 2 grams of added sugar per serving
Key Specs
- Form: Gummy
- Serving size: 2 gummies
- Type of vitamin C: Ascorbic acid, sodium ascorbate, organic acerola cherry
- Total vitamin C: 125 mg
- Other notable ingredients: Zinc, inulin
New Chapter Immune Defense Vitamin C+ gummies earned our top spot as the best gummy for its taste and nutrition. “Many gummy vitamins are high in added sugar and contain gelatin, rendering them unsuitable for vegans,” says Amy Brownstein, RDN, a plant-based dietitian in Oakland, California, and owner of Nutrition Digested. “New Chapter’s Immune Defense Vitamin C+ gummies use pectin (a vegan thickener made from plants) and have 40 percent less sugar than typical gummies, thanks to the organic blue agave fiber.”
These gummies contain 2 g of added sugar per serving, which some people may want to consider if following a low-carbohydrate or low-sugar diet. However, the inclusion of inulin, a prebiotic fiber derived from organic blue agave, supports gut health and helps offset the sugar content. Additionally, the brand is committed to sustainability and transparency by using third-party testing to ensure safety and quality. New Chapter Immune Defense Vitamin C+ gummies are a solid choice for those seeking an alternative to capsules.

Best Chewable
Natures Plus Orange Juice Vitamin C Supplement
Pros
- 250 mg vitamin C per chewable
- Pleasant orange flavor with non-chalky texture
- CGMP and NSF GMP certified manufacturing
- Trusted brand with nearly 50 years of experience
Cons
- Contains 1 g of added sugar
- No additional immune-support nutrients
Key Specs
- Form: Chewable tablet
- Serving size: 1 chewable tablet
- Type of vitamin C: Ascorbic acid
- Total vitamin C: 250 mg
- Other notable ingredients: None
For adults who don’t love taking pills (or just like the taste of vitamin C chewables), we love Natures Plus Orange Juice Vitamin C Supplement. Each chewable provides 250 mg of vitamin C from ascorbic acid and only 1 gram of added sugar, sourced from non-GMO cane sugar.
Natures Plus is a trusted supplement company, and all of its products are manufactured in-house in facilities that adhere to current good manufacturing practices (CGMPs), ensuring manufacturing, packaging, and distribution processes meet the highest standards.
Many chewable supplements have a chalky or overly sweet taste, but this product strikes a pleasant balance with its minimal sugar content. With 1 g of added sugar per serving, those following a stricter diet may want to choose an alternative. It also doesn’t contain any additional immune-supporting nutrients. However, Natures Plus Orange Juice Vitamin C Supplement delivers a simple but tasty blend of quality and convenience that ticks all the right boxes.

Best Powder
Pure Encapsulations Buffered Ascorbic Acid Powder
Pros
- Tasty and easy to mix
- Gentle on digestion
- No added sugars or fillers
Cons
- High dose per scoop
- Requires careful measurement
Key Specs
- Form: Powder
- Serving size: 1 rounded scoop
- Type of vitamin C: Calcium ascorbate, magnesium ascorbate, potassium ascorbate
- Total vitamin C: 1,220 mg
- Other notable ingredients: Calcium, magnesium, potassium
Pure Encapsulations Buffered Ascorbic Acid Powder stands out for its high-quality formula that’s easy on digestion. “Pure Encapsulations Buffered Ascorbic Acid Powder is the most gut-friendly powdered vitamin C I’ve found — and I’ve tested a lot,” says Simpson. “It skips all the junk ingredients like added sugars, artificial sweeteners, and unnecessary fillers, which can sneak into even ‘healthy’ supplements.”
This powder features buffered ascorbic acid, a unique formulation combining calcium ascorbate, magnesium ascorbate, and potassium ascorbate to neutralize acidity, making it ideal for individuals with sensitive stomachs. “It delivers a buffered, pH-neutral dose of vitamin C that’s easy on your stomach and highly absorbable — perfect if you’ve ever felt queasy, bloated, or acidic after taking standard ascorbic acid,” says Simpson.
One scoop provides 1,220 mg of vitamin C that tastes good and easily mixes into water. While this high potency ensures you’re getting maximum support, it’s important to note that this amount of vitamin C may not be suitable for everyone without consulting a healthcare provider.
Overall, Pure Encapsulations Buffered Ascorbic Acid Powder delivers a gut-friendly formula for anyone looking for a potent and gentle way to supplement their vitamin C intake.

Best High-Dose
Designs for Health Vitamin C
Pros
- Ideal for those needing larger amounts of vitamin C
- Gentle on digestion
- Flexibility for customized dosing
- Mixes easily with beverages
Cons
- Careful dosing required
- Potential for gastrointestinal discomfort if consumed in excessive amounts
Key Specs
- Form: Powder
- Serving size: 1 scoop
- Type of vitamin C: Ascorbic acid
- Total vitamin C: 2,000 mg
- Other notable ingredients: Calcium, magnesium, potassium
Each serving provides a concentrated dose of antioxidant-rich vitamin C, supporting immune health, collagen synthesis, and overall wellness. “When higher doses are needed, it’s best to divide them throughout the day and take vitamin C with a small amount of fat or fiber to enhance absorption,” suggests Ballenthin.
Although this is a high-dose product, the powder form gives users flexibility to customize their intake based on their individual needs. Overall, Designs for Health Vitamin C powder is an excellent option for those needing higher doses of vitamin C.

Best With Other Immune Nutrients
Thorne Vitamin C With Flavonoids
Pros
- Provides vitamin C with flavonoids
- Gluten-, dairy-, and soy-free
- Easy-to-swallow capsules
- Third-party tested, NSF Certified for Sport
Cons
- High dose exceeds the daily value
Key Specs
- Form: Capsules
- Serving size: 1 capsule daily
- Type of vitamin C: Ascorbic acid
- Total vitamin C: 500 mg
- Other notable ingredients: Citrus bioflavonoids
Thorne Vitamin C is "also easy to swallow and is gluten, dairy, and soy-free,” Huff points out. These features ensure that individuals with dietary restrictions or sensitivities can enjoy its benefits worry-free. This supplement is third-party tested and NSF Certified for Sport.
While the high dose is generally safe, Huff explains that vitamin C is water-soluble, so any excess will be excreted in the urine. Overall, Thorne Vitamin C with Flavonoids impresses us with its clean, effective, and nutrient-rich formulation.

Best Liposomal
BodyBio Liposomal Vitamin C
Pros
- Improved absorption
- Clean, additive-free formulation
- Supports cell membrane health
- Gentle on the stomach
Cons
- Higher cost
- May not suit all dietary needs
Key Specs:
- Form: Capsules
- Serving size: 2 capsules daily
- Type of vitamin C: Quali-C ascorbic acid
- Total vitamin C: 1,000 mg
- Other notable ingredients: Phospholipids
Liposomal supplements can be more expensive than nonliposomal forms, which might not work for everyone’s budget. Additionally, its fat-based delivery method may not suit everyone’s preferences or dietary restrictions. Despite these considerations, we think BodyBio is a worthwhile investment.

Best Budget-Friendly
Kirkland Signature C
Pros
- Affordable ($0.04 per serving)
- USP verified for quality and purity
- Contains bioflavonoid complex
Cons
- Large tablets, hard to swallow for some
- High dose may not suit everyone
Key Specs
- Form: Tablet
- Serving size: 1 tablet
- Type of vitamin C: Not listed
- Total vitamin C: 1,000 mg
- Other notable ingredients: Citrus bioflavonoid complex
For an affordable yet effective vitamin C supplement, Kirkland Signature C is our top choice. Alexandria Hardy, RDN, LDN, founder of Pennsylvania Nutrition Services in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, highlights this product’s value, noting that it’s approved by ConsumerLab.com for its exceptional cost-effectiveness and quality. ConsumerLab.com is a third-party testing organization that independently evaluates supplements for quality, purity, and label accuracy, adding a layer of confidence for consumers. Plus, at around $0.04 per serving, its unbeatable price makes it affordable for a wide range of budgets.
This product contains 1,000 mg of a citrus bioflavonoid complex, which offers added anti-inflammatory and immune-supportive benefits. It’s also verified by United States Pharmacopeia (USP), which means it has met rigorous testing standards set for quality, purity, and potency, so what’s listed on the label matches what’s inside the bottle.
That said, while the simplicity and value of Kirkland’s vitamin C are major strengths, the tablets are on the larger side. For individuals who struggle with swallowing pills, this could be a potential drawback (although you can break the tablets in half). Additionally, this is a high-dose supplement, so checking with a healthcare provider is always recommended. But for just $0.04 per serving, this product delivers significant value that’s hard to beat.

Best Liquid
Rho Nutrition Liposomal Vitamin C
Pros
- Liposomal for optimal absorption
- Flexible dosing
- Gentle on sensitive stomachs
- CGMP certified, third-party tested
Cons
- Short shelf life; refrigeration recommended
- Measuring requirements makes it less convenient
Key Specs
- Form: Liquid
- Serving size: 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters)
- Type of vitamin C: Sodium ascorbate, ascorbic acid
- Total vitamin C: 1,000 mg
- Other notable ingredients: Sunflower lecithin (containing phosphatidylcholine)
If you prefer to take your vitamins in a liquid form, Rho Nutrition Liposomal Vitamin C is a great choice. It uses a liposomal delivery for better absorption, making it an effective and easy way to get your daily dose of this essential nutrient. “From a sports performance lens, Rho Nutrition Liposomal Vitamin C is one of the most functional and efficient ways to deliver this key antioxidant,” says Kirbie Daily, RD, LDN, assistant director of sports nutrition for the University of Memphis. “Its liquid form ensures both fast and effective absorption.”
Daily also likes that this product has a simple ingredient list with no added sugar, and the liposomal form makes it gentle on the stomach for those with GI sensitivities. She suggests it can be mixed into water, smoothies, oatmeal, or chia seed pudding.
At 1,000 mg per serving, this is a high-dose product, but you can always take less as needed. “The flexible dosing is another major win, allowing tailored intake based on training load, illness risk, or travel exposure,” Daily says. “GMP and third-party certifications also ensure that this liquid supplement truly contains what is on the ingredient list, making it a trustworthy choice for all.”
Keep in mind that liquid products aren’t always as convenient and may need to be stored in the fridge. Whether you’re an athlete focused on post-training recovery, a frequent traveler seeking immune support, or simply someone who values a high-quality supplement, this product is a reliable choice.

Best for Skin Health
NOW Liposomal Vitamin C
Pros
- Well-absorbed form of vitamin C
- Supports collagen for skin firmness
- Gentle on sensitive stomachs
- Affordable compared to similar products
Cons
- 500 mg per capsule may require multiple doses if higher dose desired
- Lacks additional skin-supportive nutrients
Key Specs
- Form: Capsule
- Serving size: 2 capsules
- Type of vitamin C: Liposomal PureWay-C
- Total vitamin C: 500 mg per capsule
- Other notable ingredients: None
“Each capsule provides 500 mg of liposomal vitamin C,” says VenHuizen. While some may find the 500 mg dosage per capsule insufficient for individuals with elevated vitamin C needs, the advanced liposomal delivery system supports effective absorption to maximize its effectiveness. This product is also simple, with a single focus on delivering high-quality vitamin C, which may lack appeal if you want a supplement with added skin-supportive nutrients like hyaluronic acid or zinc. However, if you value simplicity, NOW Liposomal Vitamin C is a top choice. And as an added bonus, it’s budget-friendly, at around $0.15 per capsule.

Best for Travel
Beekeeper’s Naturals Propolis + Vitamin C
Pros
- Well-absorbed form of vitamin C
- Contains propolis for added immune defense
- Convenient, single-use travel packets
- Third-party tested for quality and purity
Cons
- Higher cost per serving than tablets or powders
- Thick, honey-like texture may not be for everyone
Key Specs
- Form: Gel
- Serving size: 1 packet (8 ml)
- Type of vitamin C: Ascorbic acid, sodium ascorbate
- Total vitamin C: 1,000 mg
- Other notable ingredients: Bee propolis extract, honey, sunflower lecithin
For travelers seeking immune support on the go, Beekeeper’s Naturals Propolis + Vitamin C is the ideal choice because it comes in individual packets. This supplement combines 1,000 mg of vitamin C with 100 mg of propolis extract per packet to provide dual benefits: enhanced immune defense and antioxidant protection. “As a sports dietitian, I’m always weighing efficacy and ease of use when it comes to supplementation, and this product checks both boxes,” says Daily, highlighting the convenient, single-serve packets.
This product also caters to active lifestyles. “Athletes often juggle tight schedules, constant travel, and challenges to their immune system due to heavy training loads. Liposomal vitamin C ensures enhanced absorption, which is particularly beneficial under physical stress when nutrient demands and GI permeability may be altered,” says Daily.
While its higher cost per serving may deter budget-conscious buyers, Daily emphasizes that the improved bioavailability and immune-boosting formula make it a worthwhile investment. Its texture is similar to syrup, and it tastes like honey. That being said, it’s also very sweet and may take some adjustment, but this minor drawback is easily outweighed by its portability and effectiveness. Whether you’re a frequent-flier, athlete, or looking for an effective immune boost during travel, Beekeeper’s Naturals Propolis + Vitamin C is an excellent choice.

Best for Kids
Renzo’s Invincible Vitamin C
Pros
- Sugar-free, kid-friendly, melt-in-your-mouth tablet
- Free from common allergens
- NSF certified and third-party tested
- Includes zinc and elderberry for additional immune support
Cons
- Sugar alcohols may cause mild GI upset
- Excess zinc can cause nausea with overuse
Key Specs
- Form: Tablet
- Serving size: 1 to 2 tablets, depending on age
- Type of vitamin C: Acerola fruit, ascorbic acid
- Total vitamin C: 45 mg
- Other notable ingredients: Zinc, elderberry
Our top pick for kids is Renzo’s Invincible Vitamin C, thanks to its combination of quality ingredients and child-friendly design. It’s sugar-free, free from common allergens, and comes in an easy-to-take tablet that melts on the tongue. Manufactured in an NSF-certified facility and third-party tested, this product guarantees high safety and quality standards, ensuring each tablet contains exactly what it promises without contaminants.
Comparison Table
How We Reviewed the Best Vitamin C Supplements
For this guide, we reviewed dozens of vitamin C supplements with the input of seven registered dietitians and nutrition experts who regularly use and recommend supplements in their practices:
- Andrea Ballenthin CNS, LDN
- Amy Brownstein, RDN
- Kirbie Daily, RD, LDN
- Alexandria Hardy, RDN, LDN
- Megan Huff, RDN, LDN
- Alyssa Simpson RDN, CGN
- Danielle VenHuizen, RDN
We examined product formulations, ingredient transparency, dosage accuracy, third-party testing certifications, and allergen information. Each supplement on our list meets high standards for effectiveness, safety, and purity.
Along with our team of RDs listed above, I am also a registered dietitian with years of experience researching dietary supplements and helping clients safely incorporate them into their daily routines.
What to Look For When Buying Vitamin C Supplements
Choosing the right vitamin C supplement starts with understanding your health goals and preferences. Whether you’re seeking to boost immunity, support skin health, or fill a nutritional gap in your diet, there are a few essential factors to keep in mind to ensure you pick a high-quality product that suits your needs:
- Dosage Consider how much vitamin C your body needs daily based on your age, health status, and nutritional intake.
- Form Depending on your needs, you may prefer capsules, chewable tablets, gummies, powders, or liquids. You may also want to look for liposomal vitamin C to maximize absorption.
- Third-Party Testing Look for products verified by independent organizations. This ensures the supplement meets high standards for purity, potency, and ingredient transparency.
- Ingredient Quality Choose products with minimal additives and fillers. If you have dietary restrictions, you may want to consider options that are allergen-free, non-GMO, or organic to match your needs.
What Does Vitamin C Do in Your Body?
Do Vitamin C Supplements Boost the Immune System?
Ultimately, vitamin C is a valuable part of supporting overall immune health, especially when dietary intake is insufficient, but no single nutrient can single-handedly supercharge immunity. A balanced diet with plenty of nutrient-rich foods is always the foundation for a strong and healthy immune system.
Who Can Benefit From Vitamin C Supplements?
However, some individuals may not be getting enough, including those under chronic stress, smokers, individuals with limited access to fresh foods, and people with medical conditions that impair absorption. Ballenthin recommends looking for signs of deficiency like bleeding gums, frequent infections, slow-healing wounds, or persistent fatigue. For these groups, supplementation under medical guidance can help close the gap.
Who Should Avoid Vitamin C Supplements?
While these complications are rare and usually a risk factor after gastric bypass or for those with chronic kidney disease, Ballenthin recommends checking with your healthcare provider before taking supplements.
What Are Some Side Effects of Vitamin C Supplements?
Staying within recommended daily limits and working with a healthcare provider if you’re taking higher doses can help you avoid these side effects.
FAQ
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- Purpura M et al. Liposomal Delivery Enhances Absorption of Vitamin C Into Plasma and Leukocytes: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Randomized Trial. European Journal of Nutrition. December 2024.
- Davis JL et al. Liposomal-Encapsulated Ascorbic Acid: Influence on Vitamin C Bioavailability and Capacity to Protect Against Ischemia–Reperfusion Injury. Nutrition and Metabolic Insights. June 20, 2016.
- Kapoor DU et al. Phosphatidylcholine (PCL) Fortified Nano-Phytopharmaceuticals for Improvement of Therapeutic Efficacy. EXCLI Journal. 2023.
- Cooper GM. Cell Membranes. The Cell: A Molecular Approach. 2000.
- Pullar JM et al. The Roles of Vitamin C in Skin Health. Nutrients. August 12, 2017.
- Tran JT et al. Evidence-Based Utility of Adjunct Antioxidant Supplementation for the Prevention and Treatment of Dermatologic Diseases: A Comprehensive Systematic Review. Antioxidants. July 27, 2023.
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- Wessels I et al. Zinc as a Gatekeeper of Immune Function. Nutrients. November 25, 2017.
- Osman AG et al. Elderberry Extracts: Characterization of the Polyphenolic Chemical Composition, Quality Consistency, Safety, Adulteration, and Attenuation of Oxidative Stress- and Inflammation-Induced Health Disorders. Molecules. March 31, 2023.
- Mäkinen KK. Gastrointestinal Disturbances Associated With the Consumption of Sugar Alcohols With Special Consideration of Xylitol: Scientific Review and Instructions for Dentists and Other Health-Care Professionals. International Journal of Dentistry. October 20, 2016.
- Zinc. National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements. September 28, 2022.
- Hemilä H. Vitamin C and Infections. Nutrients. March 29, 2017.
- Moore A et al. The Role of Vitamin C in Human Immunity and Its Treatment Potential Against COVID-19: A Review Article. Cureus. January 13, 2023.
Why Trust Everyday Health

Caitlin Beale, MS, RDN
Author
Caitlin Beale, MS, RDN, is a registered dietitian and freelance health writer with experience in clinical nutrition, education, research, and private practice. Caitlin’s special interests include women's health, gut health, autoimmunity, and reproductive health. Committed to the belief that health information should be accessible to all, she is passionate about empowering individuals to make positive changes for their well-being. Caitlin holds advanced training certificates in women's health and integrative and functional nutrition.
Caitlin was born and raised in northern California, where she resides with her family. An avid lover of sunshine and the outdoors, she finds joy in activities such as visiting the beach, exercising, cooking, and indulging in a good read. You can find Caitlin’s writing in a variety of outlets and brands, including Motherly, Nourish, Signos, Greatest, Pure Encapsulations, Abbott, and Clue, among others.

Daniel Oakley
Fact-Checker
Daniel Oakley is a journalist, editor, and fact-checker. He has written, edited, taught, and produced media for Dow Jones, S&P Global, IHS Markit, Third Coast Studios Magazine, and 826 National.
Oakley's path has always been a health-and-wellness-focused one. A competitive triathlete and racing fundraiser for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, he also spends summer weekends as an ISA-certified surf instructor and Red Cross professional water rescuer with Laru Beya Collective in Rockaway Beach, which helps kids master and delight in their own backyard — the ocean. It has taught Oakley that “optimizing body and mind” flourishes precisely at the wellspring of community.