Question:
Which brand of vitamins are healthiest? safe fillers, quick absorb, high quality...

Ive been hearing a lot about the dangers of vitamins such as high levels of certain vitamins and minerals, low quality ingredients, slow vs. fast absorption, etc. As a postop, vitamins are going to be a significant part of my diet for the rest of my life so I realize how important it is to buy the best. With so many choices out there, how do we know which to buy? I have been taking GNC vitamins but realize that they most likely dont have my best interest in mind when they are including 3000% of certain ingredients. I dont believe there is any governmental organization which monitors nutritional supplements so Im wondering where to turn. Any suggestions?    — [Anonymous] (posted on July 5, 2001)

July 5, 2001
zzi used to get sick from Flintstone chewables.....Now I take One A Day Essintials....they are smaller then an M&M and go down fine....
   — Marie B.

July 6, 2001
Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional, just a regular WLS Joe (or Kate, as the case may be). So much of the supplement question will depend on your personal levels of absorption. I personally absorb very well, even with the DS procedure. At one year, my blood work is almost perfect (a little low zinc). I take the generic brand of Centrum, which typically gets a bum rap for its rate of dissolve, but is clearly doing fine for me. I also take an additional Calcium Citrate supplement (1500 mg). I used to take GNC, but was spending a fortune for the same levels I get in the $7.99 imitation-Centrum. I have a spreadsheet comparing several brands of vitamins I have taken in trying to reach a comfort level. If you would like to have a copy, please send me an email. - Kate -
   — kateseidel