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The best vitamin D supplement for 2024

You could improve your bone health and reduce symptoms of depression by adding this vitamin to your daily routine.

Best vitamin D supplements
Out of 17 vitamin D supplements, these eight brands made our best list. (SaVanna Shoemaker, RD)

It's vitamin D's time to shine — and for good reason. Over the years, this heavyweight nutrient has been associated with a wide range of health benefits."Vitamin D supports immune health, helping our bodies fight infection and illness," explains Cassandra Padula Burke, RDN, LD, triathlon coach and owner of Catalyst Performance Lab. "It may help improve mood regulation and minimize winter blues during the winter months, and it helps aid calcium absorption to support bone health."

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Dubbed the "sunshine vitamin," your body can synthesize vitamin D naturally with adequate exposure to sunlight. However, modern lifestyles often keep us indoors, and most people aren’t soaking up enough sun to meet their needs.

Testing your vitamin D levels is an essential first step for those considering supplementation. "If your levels are below 20 nanograms per milliliter, you have insufficient vitamin D levels and require supplementation," says Dru Rosales, MS, RD, LD and owner of MindFuel Performance. A health care provider should help determine the appropriate dosage for you, but research suggests most adults may benefit from a baseline intake of at least 2,000 international units (IU), equivalent to more than 200% of the current daily value (DV).

Certain groups are at a higher risk for vitamin D deficiency, including older adults, individuals with limited sun exposure, those with darker skin and people with obesity. For these individuals, supplementation may be especially critical to maintain optimal health.

As a dietitian and firm believer in the benefits of vitamin D, I've been supplementing for nearly a decade to keep my levels in check. To help you make informed choices, I tested 17 vitamin D supplements and spoke with three registered dietitians about what to look for in a quality product. Here are the best vitamin D supplements of 2024.

A note on supplements

The products included on this list are dietary supplements. Such supplements are regulated far less stringently by the FDA than medications, with little oversight on safety or effectiveness before they go to market. Supplements may also interact with other medications and aren't appropriate for all populations or health conditions. While our health writers personally select and test products that are evidence-based, it's important to talk to your health care provider before adding a dietary supplement to your routine.

Form: Liquid | Dose: 1 ml | IU per serving: 5,000 IU | Additional ingredients: Vitamin K2

Double Wood Supplements D3 + K2 Liquid Drops is our overall winner, thanks to its powerful, well-balanced formulation and exceptional convenience. With a high dose of vitamin D to support bone health, immune function and overall wellness, this supplement goes a step further by including 200 micrograms of vitamin K2 — a critical nutrient for promoting bone growth and proper calcium utilization.

What truly sets this product apart is its simplicity and quality. It contains only three ingredients: vitamin D3, vitamin K2 and medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil, which boosts the absorption of these fat-soluble vitamins. This clean formula eliminates unnecessary additives, making it a reliable choice for those seeking transparency in their supplements. Double Wood’s commitment to quality is further reinforced by their third-party testing, with reports readily available on their website for customer review.

The dropper design makes this supplement easy to use, with clear dosage markings for precision. You can dispense it directly into your mouth or mix it into a drink, and the tasteless formula ensures no unpleasant aftertaste. At $0.66 per serving, it’s also an affordable option for a high-quality combination of vitamin D and K2, though slightly pricier than standalone vitamin D supplements.

Users agree on its value and effectiveness. One 5-star Amazon reviewer shares, "Great product and affordable!" They continue, "I switched from another brand of K2/D3. Have been taking this supplement for several months. Have noticed more positive effects, such as decreased brain fog, more energy. I will continue to take this one. I would highly recommend."

However, one important consideration is its inclusion of vitamin K. Yes, it enhances the product's health benefits, but if you're on blood thinners, consult a health care provider before use.

Pros
  • Contains vitamin D and vitamin K2
  • Third-party tested
  • Easy to dispense and flavorless
Cons
  • Pricier than some options
  • Might be unsuitable for those on blood thinners
$20 at Double Wood

Form: Softgel | Dose: 1 softgel | IU or mcg per serving: 5,000 IU | Additional ingredients: N/A

Now Foods has earned the "best value" title for its unbeatable combination of affordability and effectiveness. Known for offering a broad range of budget-friendly supplements, their high-potency vitamin D delivers 5,000 IU per softgel at just $0.11 per serving — making it one of the most cost-effective options on the market.

This particular supplement has been my personal go-to for years, and I can confidently vouch for its quality and convenience. Each softgel is small, tasteless and easy to swallow, making daily supplementation a breeze. While not third-party tested, Now Foods ensures product safety and quality through rigorous in-house laboratory testing, which adds reassurance without inflating the price.

The 5,000 IU dosage is also a defining quality. It aligns with findings from recent studies that highlight the benefits of this level of vitamin D intake, especially for individuals with low levels. Taking this dose daily may help prevent or speed up recovery from illnesses, improve mood and reduce pain in people with diabetes complications — an impressive list of benefits for such a budget-friendly supplement.

That said, it's worth noting that this product is not vegan-friendly, as the vitamin D is derived from lanolin (sheep wool), and the capsule contains bovine gelatin. Despite these limitations, the combination of potency, ease of use and affordability makes it a standout choice for anyone looking to increase their vitamin D levels without breaking the bank.

Pros
  • Affordable price point
  • Small, easy-to-swallow softgel
  • Provides an effective dose of vitamin D
Cons
  • Not third-party tested
  • Not vegan-friendly
$10 at NOW

Form: Capsule | Dose: 1 capsule weekly | IU or mcg per serving: 75 micrograms calcifediol | Additional ingredients: N/A

Our high-potency pick, Immunotec SunRay, is a true innovator in the vitamin world. It harnesses the power of calcifediol, an advanced form of vitamin D that your body can use immediately, bypassing the processing step required by traditional vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). Think of calcifediol as the VIP of vitamin D — it skips the line and goes straight to work, delivering faster and more efficient results.

This efficiency means SunRay is easier for your body to absorb and also requires smaller doses to achieve the same benefits as larger amounts of other vitamin D forms. It's the right choice for anyone seeking maximum potency with minimal effort.

Immunotec takes this science and pairs it with next-level convenience. Designed to be taken once a week rather than daily, it's an ideal supplement for anyone who wants to streamline their routine without sacrificing potency. A single, easy-to-swallow capsule packs all the power you need for the week, making it a standout choice for busy people or anyone who just prefers simplicity. However, if you're like me, it may be easier to forget because you don't have to take it daily!

One happy Amazon reviewer captures its appeal perfectly — "Convenience and effectiveness!" They continue, "SunRay fits perfectly into my lifestyle. One pill a week is all it takes, and I've seen better results than with daily supplements. Staying consistent with supplements has always been a challenge for me, but SunRay's weekly capsule has been a game-changer. It's the perfect solution for anyone who struggles with consistency like I do. Highly recommend!"

However, the supplement is on the pricier side at $30 for a month's supply. Furthermore, Immunotec's website doesn't state if this product is third-party tested. That said, the company carefully sources its ingredients and is heavily involved in dietary supplement research, so this is appears to be a high-quality product.

Pros
  • Made with easily absorbed calcifediol
  • Once-weekly capsule
  • Small and easy to swallow
Cons
  • Not third-party tested
  • Easy to forget to take
$31 at Amazon

Form: Capsule | Dose: 1 capsule | IU per serving: 2,000 IU | Additional ingredients: Vitamin C, vitamin K1, vitamin K2, organic mushrooms, organic greens and organic sprouts

Pure Synergy Vitamin D3 + K2 Complex is a top organic option in a market flooded with synthetic and heavily-processed ingredients. With its focus on organic, whole-food sources that are USDA-certified, this supplement delivers clean, natural nutrients that appeal to health-conscious consumers seeking products free from synthetic pesticides like glyphosate, which are linked to environmental and health concerns.

As one long-time Amazon user notes, "Have been using products from pure synergy for 20-plus years. They are still the best. Naturally sourced perfectly complementary and good value."

Pure Synergy pairs vitamin D3 and K2 to strengthen bones and support calcium absorption, ensuring these nutrients work together synergistically for maximum benefit. The inclusion of MCT oil enhances the absorption of these fat-soluble vitamins, making it a smart and efficient option for those looking to optimize their supplementation.

Pure Synergy products undergo rigorous testing, including both in-house and third-party lab assessments, to ensure safety and potency. This dual-layer approach gives you peace of mind about what you're putting into your body. I've been consistently impressed with the quality and reliability of their supplements, which are both effective and easy to take.

While this supplement excels in its organic formulation, it offers a lower vitamin D dosage of 2,000 IU per serving compared to other high-potency options, which can go up to 5,000 IU. If you have low vitamin D levels, consult a health care provider to determine if this dosage meets your needs.

Pros
  • Certified organic
  • Contains vitamin D, vitamin K and organic food compounds
  • Can be taken with or without food
Cons
  • Contains only 2,000 IU per serving
$32 at Pure Synergy

Form: Capsule | Dose: 1 capsule | IU per serving: 5,000 IU | Additional ingredients: Vitamin K2, calcium, black pepper extract

Did you know your bones are constantly rebuilding themselves? Every 10 years or so, your skeleton is essentially brand new. But for this remarkable process to work smoothly, your body needs the right nutrients in the right amounts — especially vitamin D, vitamin K2 and calcium. That’s where our top choice for bone health, High Level Vitamin D3 + K2, steps in, offering a powerhouse combination to keep your bones strong and resilient.

Vitamin D and vitamin K2 work synergistically to support bone health. Vitamin D enhances calcium absorption, making sure your body can take in this essential mineral from your diet. Meanwhile, vitamin K2 ensures the absorbed calcium goes to your bones rather than building up in arteries or soft tissues where it could cause harm.

What makes this supplement stand out is its inclusion of calcium, providing your body with an immediate supply of this crucial mineral needed for bone density and strength. Since many people don't get enough calcium through their diets, this added ingredient bridges the gap and makes the formula even more effective at supporting overall bone health.

As one 5-star Amazon reviewer writes, "I absolutely love K2 + D3 from High Level.... my favorite things about it are that it helps with my circulation issues and boosts my immune system among other things!!! Yet another win in my book for High Level!!!"

High Level has also included BioPerine, a black-pepper extract that enhances bioavailability. This clever addition ensures your body absorbs and uses the active ingredients. However, timing matters — taking this supplement with or shortly before a meal containing fat is key since vitamins D and K are fat-soluble and need dietary fat to be properly absorbed.

Practicality and quality are also strong points here. The supplement is third-party tested for safety and potency, giving you confidence in its purity. The capsules are easy to swallow, with no aftertaste or side effects noted. And for those with specific needs, the option to take it up to twice daily provides flexibility, though you should check with your doctor if you're on blood thinners, as vitamin K can interfere with such medications.

Pros
  • Contains vitamin D, vitamin K2 and calcium for bone health
  • BioPerine enhances bioavailability
  • Third-party tested
Cons
  • Should be taken with a meal
  • May interfere with blood-thinning medications
$32 at Live High Level

Form: Gummy | Dose: 2 gummies | IU per serving: 2,000 IU | Additional ingredients: N/A

Who says supplements can't be fun? Our favorite gummy option, NatureMade Vitamin D Gummies, redefines how you take vitamins with a sweet, chewable alternative to traditional pills, perfect for anyone who dislikes swallowing tablets or capsules. They're also thoughtfully crafted to suit various dietary needs, being sugar-free and sweetened with maltitol, which has minimal impact on blood sugar levels — an excellent choice for those managing insulin resistance or diabetes.

What truly sets these gummies apart is their balance of flavor and texture. With a strong fruity taste and pleasant chew, they're enjoyable without being overly sweet. One reviewer highlights, "I dislike taking pills, and I wasn't taking my vitamins until I switched to gummies. This vitamin D tastes like a candy, and zero sugar! Now I take it as a treat with a benefit." When a supplement is enjoyable, it makes sticking to a routine far easier — often the hardest part of taking vitamins. That said, I think I'd prefer another fruit flavor over cherry — which is very strong.

The gummies contain 2,000 IU of vitamin D per serving, which is sufficient for many, though not as high as some 5,000 IU options designed for rapid replenishment. Additionally, they're made with palm oil, a source of fat that aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamin D, so you don't have to take them with a meal.

NatureMade products are verified by United States Pharmacopeia (USP), a trusted third-party organization that rigorously tests supplements for purity and potency. This certification ensures you're getting exactly what the label promises, offering peace of mind alongside a tasty supplement.

Pros
  • Third-party tested
  • Good flavor and texture
  • Sugar-free
Cons
  • Lower in vitamin D than other vitamin D supplements
  • Cherry flavor is very strong
$19 at NatureMade

Form: Capsule | Dose: 1 capsule | IU or mcg per serving: 5,000 IU | Additional ingredients: N/A

Momentous Vitamin D is our leading choice for athletes because of its exceptional certification pedigree. It's both NSF Certified for Sport and Informed-Sport certified, ensuring it's been rigorously third-party tested for quality and safety. These certifications guarantee the supplement is free from substances banned in athletic competitions, meaning sportspeople can have confidence in their supplementation routine.

For athletes and highly active individuals, vitamin D is more than a supplement — it's a performance booster that can help support muscle growth, reduce inflammation and promote faster recovery after intense workouts.

With 5,000 IU of vitamin D per serving, Momentous Vitamin D provides a research-backed dose that may help enhance athletic performance metrics like sprint times, vertical jump, maximal running capacity and oxygen uptake. Maintaining optimal vitamin D levels can directly impact physical performance, making this supplement a valuable tool for athletes aiming to optimize performance.

The capsules themselves are small and easy to swallow, making them convenient for daily use. However, since they don't contain added fat, they should be taken with a meal to maximize absorption of this fat-soluble vitamin.

Pros
  • NSF Certified for Sport and Informed Sport certified
  • Small and easy-to-take capsule
  • May support athletic performance
Cons
  • More expensive option
  • Should be taken with a meal
$17 at Momentous

Form: Capsule | Dose: 1 capsule | IU or mcg per serving: 5,000 IU | Additional ingredients: Vitamin K2

Did you know that without vitamin K2, a form of vitamin K, calcium could end up in all the wrong places? This critical nutrient supports bones and also prevents calcium from building up in your arteries, which can lead to serious cardiovascular issues. While vitamin D ensures your body absorbs calcium efficiently, vitamin K2 directs it to your bones.

For many, getting enough K2 can be a challenge. This vital nutrient is primarily found in animal-based foods and fermented products like natto, which are uncommon in most diets. That's where our top capsule for K2 — Life Time Fitness Vitamin D + K2 — comes in, pairing 5,000 IU of vitamin D with 200 micrograms of vitamin K2 to create a two-pronged approach to strengthen your skeleton and protect your cardiovascular system. While some of the other products on this list contain K2, this is the only one (other than our best overall pick, which is a liquid vitamin, not a capsule) that contains 200 mcg. 

The supplement is third-party tested by NSF, with detailed testing reports available on their website, giving you confidence in your purchase. Plus, the small, easy-to-swallow capsules are convenient for daily use. However, because they don’t contain added fat, you should take them with a meal that includes dietary fat to enhance absorption.

A word of caution: if you’re on blood-thinning medications, you should consult your doctor before taking this supplement, as vitamin K2 can affect how these medications work.

Pros
  • Contains vitamin D3 and K2 for bone health
  • Third-party tested
  • Small, easy-to-swallow capsule
Cons
  • Should be taken with a meal
  • May interfere with blood thinning medications
$25 at Life Time Fitness

Vitamin D supplements are available in several different forms, including:

  • Softgels: Many brands offer softgel vitamin D supplements. They feature vitamin D dispersed in oil to help enhance absorption. They are typically smaller than a craft bead, tasteless and easy to swallow.

  • Capsules: Gelatin or cellulose capsules are filled with dry powder. Many vitamin D supplements containing other ingredients like vitamin K2 come in capsule form. These are usually slightly larger than softgels but are still easy to swallow. Most of them don't contain added oil, so they should be eaten with a meal for optimal absorption.

  • Gummies: Chewable vitamins with a sweet and fruity flavor are a great alternative to traditional supplement forms for children and people who dislike or can't swallow softgels or capsules. You may need to be mindful of sugar content with gummies, but sugar-free options are available.

  • Liquids: Another easy and convenient alternative to softgel and capsule vitamin D supplements. Most liquid vitamin D requires a small dose that can be taken with a dropper, but some are more traditional liquid supplements that need to be measured into a dosing cup. Liquid vitamin D can be taken plain or added to drinks or food.

You can also purchase vitamin D supplements in spray and chewable form, although these are less common. Many vitamin D supplements may also contain other ingredients to support bone health, like calcium or vitamin K2.

Selecting the right vitamin D supplement can be tricky, but keeping a few key considerations in mind can make the process much easier. Here's what to look for to ensure you make the best choice for your needs.

Vitamin D supplements are available in several doses, commonly from 1,000 to 5,000 IU per serving, although you may find doses up to 10,000 IU.

"1,000 IU may help maintain adequate vitamin D levels in people without deficiency," explains Burke. If you have a deficiency, you may need a larger dose. Be sure to ask your doctor about your vitamin D levels and their recommended dosage.

Additionally, it's vital to choose vitamin D3. "There are two main forms of vitamin D," says Rosales, "Vitamin D2 and D3. Research shows that supplementation with vitamin D3 raises blood levels of vitamin D quicker than vitamin D2."

"Vitamin D3, or cholecalciferol, is the form our body naturally produces when exposed to sunlight," adds Burke.

Third-party testing helps ensure that dietary supplements contain exactly what the label says. "Supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration [before they go to market]," explains Rosales, "which means it's up to each company to analyze their own product and label it appropriately. Third-party certification confirms that the supplement you are buying contains vitamin D3 in the amounts stated on the label and that it hasn't been contaminated with any harmful ingredients or ingredients not listed on the label."

Megan Huff, a dietitian and owner of Nutrition by Megan, adds, "Common certifications include USP, NSF and Informed Choice." Once tested, products place the agency seal on the packaging.

Vitamin D is often paired with vitamin K2 in supplements. "Vitamin D boosts calcium absorption," explains Huff, "while vitamin K2 directs calcium into the bones instead of the arteries, supporting bone health and reducing the risk of arterial calcification."

Vitamin D supplements may also include calcium and several other ingredients, including immune-supporting vitamin C or mood-regulating magnesium.

Taste can make or break your supplement routine when it comes to gummies and liquid formulations. Most liquid drops I tested were completely tasteless, making them a simple addition to any meal or drink.

On the other hand, gummies offer pleasant, fruity flavors that aren't overly sweet, so they're enjoyable and easy to take regularly.

If you're considering a gummy or liquid vitamin D, it's a good idea to check customer reviews that specifically mention taste to ensure the product aligns with your preferences. A supplement you look forward to taking is one you're more likely to stick with.

Convenience is a crucial consideration when choosing a vitamin D supplement. Most capsules and softgels are small, easy to swallow and provide a total daily dose as a single pill. However, it's always a good idea to check the serving size before purchasing, especially if taking multiple pills per day would be a dealbreaker for you.

Liquid drops are another convenient option, particularly when they come with well-designed packaging. A built-in dropper makes it easy to measure and dispense the correct dose, whether directly into your mouth or mixed into a beverage.

Gummies are popular for their ease of use and enjoyable flavor, but they have drawbacks. Their bulky packaging can make them less practical for frequent travelers, and they're prone to melting in high temperatures. Considering your lifestyle and preferences can help you choose the format that works best for you.

Everyone loves getting great value for money! Many high-quality, third-party tested vitamin D supplements with 4,000–5,000 IU per dose are available for around $.25 or less per serving. If the supplement includes vitamin K2, the best options typically range between $.50 and $.75 per serving.

Given the wide availability of affordable, high-quality supplements, there's little reason to spend more. With some research, you can find a product that fits your budget without compromising quality or effectiveness.

Our process for choosing the best vitamin D supplements involved a combination of expert input, personal experience and thorough product testing. I consulted three nutrition and dietary supplement experts who provided guidance on the benefits of vitamin D, the groups most likely to need supplementation and the essential qualities to look for in a high-quality product.

As a registered dietitian with over a decade of experience taking vitamin D supplements, I relied on my expertise during the evaluation process. I tested 17 supplements, including tablets, capsules, softgels, gummies and liquids. For most products, I focused on attributes like ease of use, taste and potential side effects, using my nutritional expertise and education to help determine which products made the cut.

The final selection comprises a range of options at different price points, forms and dosage levels to suit diverse needs. All chosen products have been tested for quality through third-party or in-house labs, ensuring their safety and reliability. This thorough approach reflects a balance of expert advice, personal experience and practical testing to provide the best recommendations.

Vitamin D3 is the best choice for a dietary supplement. It's the active form of vitamin D, so it's much easier for your body to use than vitamin D2.

A substantial body of research suggests that many adults would benefit from at least 2,000 IU of vitamin D daily. You may need more if your vitamin D levels are low, so it's essential to speak with your doctor and have your vitamin D levels tested.

Vitamin D supplements should be taken with a meal unless they contain added oil. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, so consuming it with a source of fat makes it easier to absorb.

Yes, it is possible to take too much vitamin D. Vitamin D toxicity may lead to high calcium levels, known as hypercalcemia, which can cause nausea and vomiting, weakness, pain, appetite changes, kidney stones and psychiatric problems. Therefore, it's crucial to have your vitamin D levels tested before starting a vitamin D supplement.

Severe vitamin D deficiency can cause rickets in children, a disease that prevents proper bone growth. In adults, deficiency can lead to osteomalacia, or a softening of the bones. Slightly low vitamin D levels have also been linked to numerous health problems, including depression, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, multiple sclerosis and more.

Some of the tested vitamin D supplements didn't make it into the final rankings. Here's an overview:

  • Good Raz Vitamin D3: These drops are incredibly convenient, with an easy-to-use dropper that makes them perfect for travel, thanks to their compact size. However, they aren't third-party tested, which kept them out of the top rankings.

  • Optivida Vitamin D3: I appreciate that these capsules include added magnesium, digestive enzymes, and probiotics, but they come at a higher price point and lack third-party testing, making them less competitive than similar products.

  • Vimergy Vegan D3: While these drops are third-party tested and high quality, the packaging is less user-friendly. The bottle lacks a dropper, making it tricky to dispense drops directly onto your tongue.

  • 1MD Nutrition D3: This product impressed me with its use of organic avocado oil and its affordability, especially when purchased in bulk. However, the absence of third-party testing prevented it from earning a spot on the final list.

  • JSHealth Vegan Vitamin D: These capsules contain only 1,000 IU of vitamin D per serving, which is significantly lower than other supplements at a similar price point. For this reason, they didn't make the cut.

  • GundryMD Vitamin D 5000: Small and easy to swallow, these softgels are also affordably priced. However, I found some of the additives — like cornstarch, sugar alcohol and carrageenan — unnecessary, which kept them off the list.

  • Nature's Sunshine Vitamin D3: Although I liked these tablets, they were noticeably more expensive than many of the other vitamin D supplements I tested, which made them harder to recommend.

  • Dr. Moritz Vitamin D3+K2: These gummies are delicious, but a lack of third-party testing ultimately disqualified them from my rankings.

  • Trace Minerals Vitamin D: While the dose of vitamin D is potent, I couldn't get past the taste and texture of this liquid supplement. It's thick, viscous and overly sweet, with a consistency that reminded me of cough syrup.

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.