Mega Multi for Women
21st Century
Mega Multi for Women
4.6
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
(17263 ratings)
Vitamin B6 80 mg
Iron 27 mg
Copper 2 mg
Thiamin 80 mg
Vitamin K 75 mcg
Niacin 80 mg
Riboflavin 80 mg
Score 65.0
This is a highly comprehensive and extremely affordable multivitamin for women, offering a broad spectrum of vitamins, minerals, and supportive botanicals for general wellness, energy, and specific women's health goals. Its strength lies in its extensive ingredient list and low cost per serving. However, it uses less bioavailable forms of several key nutrients (e.g., Magnesium Oxide, Zinc Oxide, Cyanocobalamin B12) and provides very high dosages of B vitamins, especially B6 (80mg), which can be a concern for long-term use. The Vitamin D3 dosage is also relatively low for optimal levels.
Quantity: 90 Tablet(s)Servings size: 2 Tablet(s) (45 servings)
Selected goals:
Other goals:
Energy
Brain Health
Mood Support
General Health
Productivity Boost
leaderboard Score 65.0
This is a highly comprehensive and extremely affordable multivitamin for women, offering a broad spectrum of vitamins, minerals, and supportive botanicals for general wellness, energy, and specific women's health goals. Its strength lies in its extensive ingredient list and low cost per serving. However, it uses less bioavailable forms of several key nutrients (e.g., Magnesium Oxide, Zinc Oxide, Cyanocobalamin B12) and provides very high dosages of B vitamins, especially B6 (80mg), which can be a concern for long-term use. The Vitamin D3 dosage is also relatively low for optimal levels.
insights Analysis
This multivitamin for women from 21st Century aims to be a comprehensive, all-in-one supplement targeting a wide array of health goals. Its formula is indeed extensive, encompassing a full spectrum of essential vitamins (A, C, D3, E, K, and a robust B-complex) and minerals (Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc, Selenium, Chromium, Manganese, Iron, Iodine, Copper, Molybdenum, Boron, Silica). Beyond basic nutrients, it also includes a few botanicals and supportive compounds like Royal Jelly, Bee Pollen, Citrus Bioflavonoids, PABA, Inositol, Red Raspberry, Dong Quai, and Lutein, aiming to cater specifically to women's health concerns like hormonal balance, skin health, and general vitality. The price point is exceptionally low per serving, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers seeking broad nutritional coverage. However, the product utilizes less bioavailable forms for several key nutrients, such as Magnesium Oxide, Calcium Carbonate/Dicalcium Phosphate, Zinc Oxide, and Cyanocobalamin (B12). Additionally, some B vitamin dosages (Thiamine, Riboflavin, Niacin, B5, B6) are notably high, with Vitamin B6 at 80mg being a particular concern for long-term use due to potential neuropathy risks in some individuals, which is much higher than the tolerable upper intake level (UL) of 100mg/day and significantly above the RDI. The Vitamin D3 dosage is also on the lower side compared to current recommendations for optimal health. The vast number of listed goals, some highly specific (like "Testosterone Support" for a women's product), might indicate a 'shotgun' approach rather than targeted, optimized formulations for each. While it offers a broad nutrient profile for the price, the quality of ingredient forms and potentially excessive dosages for some B vitamins detract from its overall efficacy and safety profile compared to premium alternatives.
- Extremely comprehensive formula with a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and specialized botanical extracts for women's health.
- Highly affordable, offering significant nutritional coverage for its low price per serving.
- Includes a good dosage of iron and calcium, which are often important for women's health.
- Contains specific ingredients like Dong Quai and Red Raspberry, traditionally used to support female hormonal balance and reproductive health.
- Utilizes less bioavailable forms for several key minerals (e.g., Magnesium Oxide, Zinc Oxide) and Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin), which may reduce absorption and efficacy compared to chelated or active forms.
- Provides very high dosages of several B vitamins, particularly Vitamin B6 (80mg), which is close to the tolerable upper intake level and could potentially lead to nerve issues with prolonged use in some individuals.
- The Vitamin D3 dosage (10mcg/400IU) is relatively low compared to current recommendations for optimizing bone health and overall immunity, especially for women.
- The large number of ingredients in a tablet form often results in large pills, which some users find difficult to swallow.
- The high dosage of Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine Hydrochloride) at 80mg could, in rare cases and with prolonged use, lead to peripheral neuropathy. Individuals should consult a healthcare professional, especially if taking other B6-containing supplements or experiencing symptoms.
- High iron content (27mg) may be unsuitable for women who do not have an iron deficiency, as excess iron can be harmful.
- The use of Calcium Carbonate and Magnesium Oxide means a portion of the dose may not be fully absorbed, potentially leading to gastrointestinal discomfort or reduced efficacy for some individuals.
$9.18($0.20 per serving)
 Pure Formulas | $ 9.18 | |
 iHerb | $ 13.99 |
bolt Effectiveness for goals
B vitamins such as Thiamine, Riboflavin, Niacin, B6, Folate, and B12 are essential coenzymes in numerous metabolic pathways that convert food into energy. They play a crucial role in cellular function, nerve health, and red blood cell formation. A sufficient intake supports general vitality and cellular efficiency.
Calcium is a primary building block for bones and teeth, while Vitamin D3 is crucial for the body's absorption and utilization of calcium. Magnesium also plays a vital role in bone formation and maintaining bone density, working synergistically with calcium and vitamin D to support skeletal integrity.
Vitamin C significantly improves the absorption of non-heme iron (the form found in plants and supplements) when consumed together. It converts ferric iron into a more readily absorbable ferrous form, making the iron more bioavailable. This interaction helps ensure the body can effectively use iron for vital functions like oxygen transport.
Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Selenium are powerful antioxidants that help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. This oxidative stress can contribute to aging and various health concerns. By neutralizing free radicals, these nutrients support cellular integrity and overall health.
Dong Quai is traditionally used in herbal medicine, particularly in Asian cultures, for its potential role in supporting women's reproductive health and balancing hormones. Red Raspberry leaf is often consumed for its traditional use in supporting uterine health and overall female well-being. These botanicals are recognized for their historical use in various female-specific health contexts.
schedule Dosage, timing & forms
Many multivitamins are best taken with a meal to enhance the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) and to minimize potential stomach upset from minerals like iron. Taking it with food can also improve the absorption of some B vitamins. Consult the product's label for specific instructions.
B vitamins are often associated with energy metabolism, so many individuals prefer to take them in the morning. While they can be taken at any time, morning consumption might align with daily energy needs. Taking B vitamins with food can also help prevent stomach upset.
Yes, calcium can inhibit the absorption of non-heme iron when taken together, particularly in high doses. To optimize absorption, some people choose to take iron-containing supplements at a different time from calcium-rich foods or supplements. Vitamin C, however, can enhance non-heme iron absorption.
Yes, zinc and copper can compete for absorption in the digestive tract, especially when taken in high doses. For this reason, some multi-mineral formulations balance these two minerals or suggest spacing their intake if individual high-dose supplements are used. However, in a standard multivitamin, the amounts are often balanced to minimize significant competition.
For supplements with particularly high doses of certain minerals (like calcium or magnesium), splitting the daily dose can sometimes enhance absorption and reduce potential digestive discomfort. This strategy can allow the body to absorb nutrients more efficiently throughout the day. Always follow the product's recommended serving size unless advised otherwise by a healthcare professional.
health_and_safety Safety & interactions
Ingredients like Royal Jelly and Bee Pollen can cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to bee products. Symptoms may include hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing. Those with known allergies to bees, pollen, or asthma should exercise caution.
Yes, ingredients such as Vitamin K (Phytonadione) and Dong Quai may interact with anticoagulant medications like warfarin. These interactions could potentially alter the effectiveness of your medication. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use if you are on blood thinners.
This supplement contains both Vitamin A palmitate and Beta-Carotene, totaling 6000mcg DFE (20,000 IU) of Vitamin A. Excessive intake of preformed Vitamin A can be a concern, particularly for certain populations like pregnant individuals or those consuming other Vitamin A-rich supplements. Please discuss your total Vitamin A intake with a healthcare provider.
Some individuals may experience mild digestive upset, such as nausea or constipation, especially with ingredients like Iron or Magnesium. Taking the supplement with food may help minimize these effects. If symptoms persist or worsen, consider consulting a healthcare professional.
The supplement contains Iodine, derived from kelp, which can affect thyroid function in sensitive individuals or those with existing thyroid conditions. High iodine intake can sometimes exacerbate hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. Individuals with thyroid disorders should consult their doctor before taking this supplement.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
Vitamin A | 3000 mcg |
Vitamin C | 200 mg |
Vitamin D3 | 10 mcg |
Vitamin E | 67 mg |
Vitamin K | 75 mcg |
Thiamine | 80 mg |
Riboflavin | 80 mg |
Niacin | 80 mg |
Vitamin B6 | 80 mg |
Folate | 667 mcg DFE |
Vitamin B12 | 80 mcg |
Biotin | 80 mcg |
Pantothenic Acid | 80 mg |
Choline | 10 mg |
Calcium | 500 mg |
Iron | 27 mg |
Iodine | 150 mcg |
Magnesium | 200 mg |
Zinc | 15 mg |
Selenium | 100 mcg |
Copper | 2 mg |
Manganese | 5 mg |
Chromium | 100 mcg |
Molybdenum | 50 mcg |
Boron | 2 mg |
Silica | 2 mcg |
Inositol | 20 mcg |
Para-Aminobenzoic Acid | 10 mg |
Citrus Bioflavonoids Complex | 25 mg |
Bee Pollen powder | 25 mg |
Royal Jelly | 5 mg |
Dong Quai | 50 mg |
Lutein | 500 mcg |
Red Raspberry | 2 mg |
Categories
Selenium 75.0
The 100mcg of Selenium (as Amino Acid Chelate) is a good, well-absorbed dose that effectively supports antioxidant defenses and thyroid function. This is a beneficial inclusion at a helpful level.
Chromium 75.0
The 100mcg of Chromium (as Amino Acid Chelate) is a good and bioavailable dose, beneficial for glucose metabolism and supporting healthy blood sugar levels. This is a positive for the "Metabolism Boost" goal.
Manganese 75.0
The 5mg of Manganese (as Amino Acid Chelate) is a good and bioavailable dose, supporting bone health, metabolism, and antioxidant enzyme systems.
Goals
Energy 75.0
A comprehensive B-complex, along with iron and magnesium, are all crucial cofactors in energy production and cellular metabolism. The high doses of most B vitamins directly support the energy goal, although the form of B12 (Cyanocobalamin) is not the most active.
Metabolism Boost 75.0
Essential B vitamins (Thiamine, Riboflavin, Niacin, Pantothenic Acid, Biotin, B6, B12) are critical for carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism. Minerals like Chromium and Magnesium also play direct roles in glucose and energy metabolism pathways, supporting this goal effectively.
General Health 70.0
The product offers a very broad spectrum of essential vitamins and minerals, covering daily nutritional bases for general well-being. However, the use of less bioavailable forms for some nutrients and potentially excessive levels of others (e.g., B6) slightly reduce its optimal impact compared to products with more premium ingredient choices.