The market for women's supplements has grown, offering a plethora of products claiming to cater to the distinct physiological needs of women. Our quest for the best led us to scrutinize a wide range of products on aspects like hormonal balance, blood flow, bone health, and mental clarity.
In this review, we dissect the top 7 supplements to see how they stand up to their claims and whether they fulfill the essential nutritional requirements for women's holistic health and vitality.
Best supplements for women: shortlist
- Bonafide — best supplement for women to help with sexual arousal
- Autumn — best supplement for women overall
- Ritual — best supplement for women with the most comprehensive ingredient blend
- Ora — best supplement for women’s hormonal balance
- Unbloat — best probiotic for women’s health
- A Quality Life — best supplement for women with niche ingredient blend
- Aura Essentials— best supplement for women in gummy form
Comparison of the top 7 supplements for women
| Brand | Price per bottle | Price per serving | Servings per bottle | Serving size | Form |
| Bonafide | $57.00 | $1.90 | 30 | 2 | Tablets |
| Autumn | $94.98 | $3.17 | 30 | Bespoke | Capsules/softgels/tablets |
| Ritual | $33.00 | $1.1 | 30 | 2 | Capsules |
| Ora | $35.99 | $1.20 | 30 | 3 | Capsules |
| A Quality Life | $38.45 | $1.28 | 30 | 2 | Capsules |
| Unbloat | $59.95 | $2.00 | 30 | 1 | Capsules |
| Aura | $19.99 | $0.66 | 30 | 2 | Gummies |
While some individual active ingredients in dietary supplements may have been studied for their potential benefits discussed in this article, their interactive effects, as well as the safety and effectiveness of the overall formulations have not been fully established.
Best supplements for women: an overview
To address the distinct nutritional needs of women, various supplement providers have emerged with promising products.
Our list of the top seven supplements for women aims to elucidate how each brand fares in delivering essential nutrients and fulfilling key claims like hormonal balance, mental clarity, and overall vitality.
We have examined the ingredients, customer satisfaction, and third-party testing data to help you on your quest to find the best supplements for women.
1. Bonafide — best supplement for women to help with sexual arousal
Bonafide Ristela aspires to boost sexual arousal in women through a distinctive blend of antioxidants and amino acids. It combines French maritime pine bark extract, rose hips, L-arginine, and L-citrulline, aiming to enhance blood flow to the vaginal area for easier arousal and orgasm.
This proposition places Ristela among noteworthy supplements for women's sexual health. Recommended consistent use for two months alongside frequent sexual activity suggests a tailored approach for optimal results.
However, the lack of third-party testing data may raise efficacy and safety concerns among those seeking the best supplements for women's health. The FDA-registered, cGMP-compliant manufacturing adds a trust layer, yet external validation and customer reviews are missing on the product’s page, leaving some efficacy questions lingering.
30-day supply costs $57.00 ($1.90 per serving).
2. Autumn — best supplement for women overall
Autumn presents a pioneering approach to addressing women's health through personalized vitamins based on the insight from your genetic code. By either conducting a new genetic test or utilizing existing data from platforms like 23andMe or Ancestry, Autumn crafts a tailored vitamin blend aligning with one's metabolic profile and genetic traits. This innovative methodology ensures that the essential supplements for women are finely tuned to individual needs.
With a broad spectrum of 30 supplements ranging from vitamins, and minerals to herbal extracts, and the over 415 billion unique combinations offer diversity in personalization. This positions Autumn as a provider of some of the best supplements for women looking to address a myriad of health concerns. Additionally, the delivery system is ingeniously designed, offering a month's supply of morning and evening servings in a tape dispenser-like apparatus.
Moreover, the assurance of third-party testing coupled with glowing testimonials echo the positive impact Autumn could have in advancing women's health through personalized nutrition supplements for women.
Without the genetic test, the 30-day supply costs $94.98 ($3.17 per serving).
3. Ritual — best supplement for women with the most comprehensive ingredient blend
Multivitamin 18+ by Ritual boasts a comprehensive blend of vitamins, minerals, and omega-3, aiming for holistic health, which may entice those seeking the best supplements for women's health. The formulation claims to support various aspects of feminine wellness: brain health, bone health, blood cell formation, and anti-oxidant protection.
This product's extensive ingredient list features 9 active ingredients that can be traced back to the suppliers. Moreover, this Ritual supplement undergoes third-party testing to help assure product quality and safety.
As per brand claims, Multivitamin 18+ uses delayed-release capsules to enhance absorption efficiency.
A 30-day supply costs $33.00 (or $1.10 per serving).
4. Ora — best supplement for women’s hormonal balance
Harmonious supplement by Ora is designed to address hormonal imbalance in women. The provider claims its supplement helps address skin problems, brittle hair, and menstrual irregularity caused by hormonal changes.
The manufacturer combined 6 organic herbal ingredients suggested to play a role in different aspects of women's health. The provider of Ora Hormonious claims to use Ashwagandha and holy basil to help improve sleep quality and manage stressful situations. Rich in vitamin C, Acerola cherry is believed to help in natural collagen production for improved skin health.
Ora displays a certificate of analysis (COA) from third parties for its Hormonious women’s supplement on the product page. To make the supplement applicable to a broader range of users, the manufacturer produced a supplement free from gluten, soy, dairy, and GMOs. Harmonious is also vegan and composed of organic ingredients.
It's advised to consult a doctor before incorporating this supplement into your routine if you are using other hormonal medication or contraception.
One bottle of Ora Hormonious contains 90 capsules for 30 servings. A one-time purchase is available at $35.99 ($1.20 per serving).
5. A Quality Life — best supplement for women with niche ingredient blend
A Quality Life Multivitamin for Women offers a holistic approach to women's health, addressing unique nutritional needs with special ingredients like wild yam, clover, and cranberry extracts.
Besides nourishment, it aims to enhance beauty with a blend of biotin, beta carotene, and essential vitamins, promising radiant skin and fortified hair. The B vitamin complex is designed to provide daily energy, ensuring enthusiasm and vigor. Moreover, the combination of vitamin C and zinc fortifies immune defense, while vitamin D and calcium support bone integrity, crucial for aging gracefully.
The product, being third-party tested and budget-friendly, is a commendable choice for daily supplementation, as reflected in its positive reviews.
30-day supply costs $38.45 ($1.28 per serving).
6. Unbloat — best probiotic for women’s health
Unbloat, with its promising name, aims to address common digestive discomforts experienced by women, potentially placing it among recommended supplements for women. Its formula combines 21 digestive enzymes, 7 key probiotic strains, and a variety of natural ingredients like peppermint, fennel, and turmeric which are traditionally known for their digestive support. This supplement is designed to target bloating which often accompanies periods, menopause, and IBS — an excellent addition to our list of the best supplements for women's health.
The convenience of a single capsule daily is appealing to those seeking a manageable supplement routine. However, the lack of third-party testing data online could be a stumbling block for those adamant about additional independent verification. The extremely positive reviews provide a comforting user-backed assurance, although an external validation could further enhance its standing among the best supplements for women's health.
30-day supply costs $59.95 ($2.00 per serving).
7. Aura Essentials — best supplement for women in gummy form
Aura Original PMS gummy, a tasty remedy in acai berry flavor, aims to alleviate common PMS woes using a natural blend of maritime pine bark, dandelion, and chasteberry extracts. It claims to foster hormonal balance, ease menstrual cramps, and level mood swings, which is a boon during those tough days.
Moreover, it aspires to alleviate bloating, sharpen mental clarity and focus, ensuring you remain on top of your game.
On the other hand, while the manufacturer’s promises are tempting, the absence of third-party testing data online may be an important consideration for those who need additional external validation. However, the generally positive customer reviews suggest a good level of satisfaction among users.
30-day supply costs $19.99 ($0.66 per serving).
Criteria we follow for choosing the best supplements for women
When determining the best supplements for women, it's vital to consider multiple factors. Here are a few we think are important.
| Price | Age and life stage | Third-party testing | Ingredients | Common health issues |
| $0.50–3.50 per serving | Tailored to woman's phase | External quality assurance | Purity and safety | Address women's health needs |
- Price. Good supplements for women are not always the most expensive. It's essential to find a balance between cost and quality.
- Age and life stage. Nutritional supplements for women in their 20s may differ from those recommended for postmenopausal women.
- Third-party testing. Best supplements for women's health have often undergone third-party testing to ensure that the dietary supplements for women meet quality standards and are free from contaminants.
- Ingredients. When pondering what are the best supplements for women's health, natural supplements for women with minimal additives or fillers may be more beneficial.
- Common health issues. Essential supplements for women should address the most common health issues females face. By targeting specific needs, you ensure the best supplements for women's health are truly supportive.
What essential vitamins and minerals does a woman need?
The cornerstone of a woman's health lies in a balanced intake of essential vitamins and minerals, catering to her unique physiological needs. From promoting hormonal balance to ensuring bone integrity, certain nutrients play a pivotal role in fostering holistic wellness.
Among the supplements discussed, five vital compounds recurrently surface as common constituents — vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, and folic acid. These nutrients are instrumental in propelling a woman’s health across different stages of life, meriting a closer examination of their benefits and significance.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A, also known as beta-carotene in some supplements, is crucial for promoting good vision, especially in low-light conditions. Moreover, it supports a healthy immune system and skin, acting as a formidable barrier against various infections.
This antioxidant also plays a vital role in ensuring the normal function of several vital organs such as the heart, lungs, and kidneys. Its presence in many women-centric supplements underscores its importance in maintaining a woman's overall health, making it an indispensable nutrient in her daily regimen.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is a powerful antioxidant that contributes immensely to immune defense by supporting various cellular functions. It also promotes healthy skin by encouraging the production of collagen, which helps to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improve overall skin texture.
Furthermore, vitamin C aids in iron absorption, a crucial element for preventing anemia, especially in women with heavy menstrual periods. It's an integral component in women's supplements aimed at bolstering immunity and fostering radiant skin.
Vitamin D
Acknowledging the unique nutritional requirements of a woman's body, vitamin D plays its role in calcium absorption, a process essential for maintaining bone integrity and strength. Moreover, it contributes to a robust immune system and may help in mood regulation, which is vital for coping with hormonal fluctuations.
Its inclusion in many supplements aims at combating the risk of osteoporosis, especially in post-menopausal women, underlining its importance in promoting longevity and holistic wellness.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E, found as tocopherol in some supplements, is a potent antioxidant that helps combat oxidative stress, promoting cell health. It also plays a pivotal role in maintaining healthy skin and eyes, besides supporting the immune system.
Women may find vitamin E particularly beneficial in easing menstrual discomfort and promoting heart health, thus making it a common inclusion in many supplements targeting women's health.
Folic acid
Folic acid is essential for women, especially during pregnancy, as it aids in the development of the neural tube in fetuses, significantly reducing the risk of neural tube defects. Besides its prenatal benefits, folic acid also supports cell division and is necessary for the production and maintenance of new cells.
Furthermore, it helps in preventing changes to DNA that may lead to cancer. Its presence in supplements tailored for women accentuates its vital role in ensuring both maternal and cellular health, demonstrating its key role in a woman’s nutritional arsenal.
Why do we need supplements: is a nutritious diet not enough?
Even with a nutritious diet, women may find it challenging to meet their specific nutrient needs due to various factors like menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or menopause which significantly influence their nutritional demands.
Moreover, as women age, their bodies undergo changes that can lead to decreased absorption of essential nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D, making supplementation an attractive strategy to fill these nutritional gaps. Additionally, modern-day food processing can lead to nutrient loss, and the hectic pace of life might deter a consistent healthy dietary routine.
Supplements serve as a convenient means to ensure that women receive the vital nutrients necessary for their health, supporting their bodily functions and promoting overall wellness amidst life's changing phases and demanding schedules.
However, dietary supplements are intended to complement, not replace, a balanced diet. It is important to maintain a varied and nutritious diet as the foundation of a healthy lifestyle. We recommend using dietary supplements when there is an actual need or deficiency only.
Most common health issues and risks for women
In general, dietary supplements for women primarily cater to the unique health requisites of women, addressing common issues they face across different life stages. From hormonal imbalances to bone health, the right supplementation can significantly contribute to alleviating these concerns, ensuring a better quality of life.
Hormonal imbalances
Hormonal imbalances, especially around menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause, can significantly impact a woman's quality of life. Symptoms include mood swings, fatigue, and menstrual irregularities. Certain ingredients like chasteberry extract and maritime pine bark extract could help in promoting hormonal balance, easing menstrual cramps, and leveling mood swings, ensuring a more manageable menstrual cycle and hormonal state.
Menstrual discomfort
Menstrual discomfort encompasses a range of symptoms from abdominal cramping to headaches. The right nutrients can alleviate these symptoms, making this monthly period less daunting. For instance, the dandelion extract can soothe menstrual cramps and ease bloating, providing relief during this often uncomfortable time.
Cognitive decline
Maintaining mental clarity and focus becomes crucial as women age. Ingredients like maritime pine bark extract have shown promise in supporting cognitive health. Maintaining an optimum level of essential nutrients through supplements can be a proactive step toward preserving cognitive function and mental clarity.
Bone health
With age, the risk of osteoporosis and other bone-related issues increases, particularly in postmenopausal women. Supplements with vitamin D and calcium can support bone integrity, promoting longevity and a higher quality of life by potentially slowing the process of bone deterioration..
Cardiovascular health
Cardiovascular diseases remain a leading cause of death among women. Ingredients such as vitamins E and C, known for their antioxidant properties, can support cardiovascular health by combating oxidative stress, thus potentially reducing the risk of heart-related issues.
Skin aging
Skin aging is a natural process but can be accelerated by nutritional deficiencies. Vitamins like vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E can help in maintaining skin health, possibly delaying the appearance of wrinkles and age spots, and promoting a youthful complexion.
When should a woman start taking supplements?
The need for supplements can vary through different stages of a woman's life due to changing physiological and hormonal conditions. During adolescence, supplements like iron and calcium can be beneficial due to menstruation and growth spurts.
In the reproductive years, folic acid becomes essential for women who are pregnant or trying to conceive. As women approach menopause and beyond, calcium and vitamin D are crucial for bone health, while B vitamins can aid in maintaining energy levels.
Several side effects are known to occur with supplement use:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Allergic reactions
Certain supplements can interact with medications or existing health conditions, possessing contraindications. For instance:
- Vitamin K can interfere with blood thinners
- High doses of vitamin E can be harmful to individuals with heart diseases
It's advisable to consult with healthcare providers before starting any supplement regimen to understand individual needs and avoid potential interactions or side effects.
Our conclusion for the best supplements for women
Catering to the unique nutritional needs of a woman's body is pivotal for maintaining optimal health and well-being. The array of supplements discussed in this article underscores the significance of personalized nutritional support.
By understanding the vital vitamins and minerals, alongside consulting healthcare professionals, women can make informed choices in selecting supplements that align with their health goals, ensuring a vibrant and fulfilling life.
Read more on women’s health
Here are some other helpful articles on the topic of women's well-being:
If you are seeking better gut, vaginal, and digestive health, find insights in best probiotics for women.
If you're looking for probiotic supplements, check out this article on the best probiotics for women over 50.
For those considering supplements to increase their libido, read more on the best libido boosters for women.
If you are seeking benefits for your skin, consider the best skin supplements for skin.
If you want to look younger and possibly reduce wrinkles, try out the best collagen supplements for women over 50.
If you're aiming to improve hormonal and mental health, explore our top picks for the best inositol supplements.
For tailored nutritional support in fitness and overall health, delve into the best protein powder for women in our comprehensive article.
FAQ
What supplements should women take each day?
In general, women may consider taking vitamin D, calcium, iron, folic acid, and omega-3 fatty acids daily. However, individual needs vary. It's advisable to consult a healthcare professional before adding any supplement to your regimen, ensuring it caters to your personal health requirements and circumstances.
What are essential supplements for women?
Essential supplements for women may be those that support bone health, hormonal balance, iron levels, prenatal health and cardiovascular health. However, it is best to discuss your individual needs and run necessary blood tests with a healthcare provider.
What vitamins are good for vaginal health?
For vaginal health, consider vitamins like vitamin D for its antimicrobial properties, vitamin C for immune support, vitamin E for hormone regulation, and B vitamins for energy and cell health. Probiotics also promote a healthy vaginal microbiome. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
3 resources
- American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. The clinical content of preconception care: the use of medications and supplements among women of reproductive age.
- Clinical Medicine Insights: Women’s Health. The Role of Vitamin D Supplements in Women's Health.
- Fertility and Sterility. The role of nutrition and nutritional supplements in women’s health.
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