Kids vitamins are loaded with sugar – best sugar-free vitamins

In my effort to cut down on added sugar in my kids’ diet, I was stunned to discover how much sugar is packed into children’s vitamins. Some of the top brands I used to buy for my family have 3-5 grams of sugar per serving. And during flu season, when I give them extra vitamin C or other supplements, that sugar really adds up. By the end of the day, my kids could be getting close to 20 grams of sugar from products meant to boost their health!

Determined to find better options, I researched and tested several sugar-free vitamins, and we’ve found a few that work for our family.

Our Top Picks for Sugar-Free Kids’ Vitamins:
Mary Ruth’s Liquid Morning Multivitamin

Pros:

• No added sugars
• No artificial sweeteners
• No sugar alcohols
• No zero-calorie sweeteners
• Adjustable dosage: Since it’s a liquid, I can tailor the serving size. If the kids have been eating well and getting lots of veggies, I give them a small dose. But during busy weeks filled with fast food and soccer games, I give them the full amount.

Cons:

• The flavor is strong if taken on its own. We usually mix it with breakfast – Greek yogurt, overnight oats, or smoothies work well.

SmartyPants Kids Multivitamin Gummies, Sugar Free

Pros:

• No added sugars
• No artificial sweeteners
• No sugar alcohols

Cons:

• Monk fruit can leave an odd aftertaste that some kids don’t like.
• Allulose is FDA-approved but considered a “novel food,” so it hasn’t been as widely studied as other sweeteners.

MaryRuth Organics Kids Vitamins

Pros:

• No added sugars
• No artificial sweeteners
• Excellent taste

Cons:

• Some people are sensitive to sugar alcohols, which can cause digestive issues.
• There are some studies linking xylitol and erythritol to potential health risks, so this option may not be for everyone.