Just found this study on softgel ingredients... legit or biased?
Hey everyone, long time lurker first time poster. I was out shooting some macro shots of bees today (nature photography is my thing) and got to thinking about softgels. Anyway, I stumbled on this study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12345678/ about absorption of certain vitamins in softgel form vs tablets. The conclusion says softgels are way better absorbed, but I noticed the study was funded by a company that makes softgels. Smells fishy to me. What do you all think? Legit or just marketing fluff?
Ugh, another industry-funded study. I'm so tired of these. I only use sugar-free gummies because I'm watching my sugar intake, and softgels usually have gelatin and other junk. But if you're gonna take softgels, definitely check the ingredients. That study might have some truth, but I'd take it with a grain of salt (or sugar substitute lol). Have you looked at other independent studies?
BioBob, as a fitness pro, I've seen studies like this before. Softgels can be more bioavailable for fat-soluble vitamins like D and E, so there's some science behind it. But yeah, funding bias is real. I'd look for meta-analyses or studies not funded by the industry. Also, for athletes, absorption matters, but so does purity. What brand are you considering? I usually recommend a reputable third-party tested brand.
@IvyIron92 good point about the sugar-free thing. I didn't even think about that. I'll check for independent studies. @WellnessWendy thanks for the advice. I'm not committed to a brand yet, just researching. Maybe I'll stick with my regular tablets if the difference isn't huge.
No problem! Also, just a heads up, some softgels use soybean oil or other fillers that might not be great. Always read the label. Let us know what you find out!