Olly vs. SmartyPants vs. NuBest: The Ultimate Kids' Multivitamin Showdown

Olly Kids Multivitamins for Basic Nutrition

Olly Kids Multivitamins have become a favorite among parents, especially for their kid-friendly berry-flavored gummies. Let's break down the key features of this multivitamin: 

What Does Olly Kids Multivitamins Offer?

Olly gummies support overall health with essential vitamins and minerals such as:

• Vitamins A, C, D, and E for immune support, healthy skin, and proper growth [1]

• B vitamins for energy production and brain development [2,3] 

In addition, these gummy vitamins contain probiotics, which are important for your child's gut health [4]. 

While these cover your child's basic needs, the product doesn't have iron, which has potential benefits for growth and development [5].

Plus, Olly also offers a diverse range of kids' gummy vitamins, including:

• Olly Kids Immunity Gummies support immune health

• Olly Kids Sleep Gummies for a restful sleep

• Olly Kids Probiotic Gummies promote gut health and digestion

Pros of Olly Kids Multivitamins:

• Fun flavors and animal shapes make them appealing to kids

• Easy-to-take and great for avoiding the struggle of swallowing pills

• Affordable compared to many alternatives

• Suitable for kids with dietary restrictions like gluten-free and vegan diets

Cons of Olly Kids Multivitamins:

• Lacks iron, which may be a concern for some children

• Contains sugar, which may worry parents trying to minimize their sugar intake

• Not ideal for kids with advanced nutritional needs

Ratings:

• iHerb: 4.9/5

• Amazon: 4.7/5

(Note: Ratings are based on factors such as taste, vitamin content, quality, value for money, digestion, and meltability)

Smarty Pants Kids Multivitamins for Optimal Health

Smarty Pants stands out for its comprehensive nutrition as it offers a broad spectrum of nutrients for brain, gut, and immune health.

What Does Smarty Pants Offer?

Smarty Pants gummy vitamins have the following key nutrients to target multiple aspects of your child's health:

• Omega-3 DHA to support brain development

• Probiotics to help digestion and immune function

• Vitamin D3 for calcium absorption and bone strength

• Vitamin Bs for energy and immune support

• Vitamin K for bone health

• Vitamins C and A for protection against infections, and to support healthy skin and vision

These multivitamins are also free from synthetic colors, artificial flavors, and common allergens, making them safe for kids with dietary restrictions.

Another plus point of Smartypants is that it offers a variety of products tailored for kids and adults:

• Kids Formula covers nutrients for growth and development

• Adult Formula supports heart, brain, and immune health

• Prenatal Formula includes nutrients like folate and omega-3 DHA for expecting mothers

Pros of SmartyPants:

• Free from synthetic flavors and colors, and allergens such as milk, soy, eggs, nuts, gluten and wheat

• Includes options for toddlers 

• Contains fish oil

• Affordable compared to other brands

• Widely available in stores and online

Cons of SmartyPants:

• Gummies look like candy, increasing the risk of overdose

• Not suitable for those following a vegan diet

• Daily dosage ranges from 2 to 4 gummies

• Contains 5g of added sugar per serving

Ratings:

• iHerb: 4.8/5

• Amazon: 4.5/5

(Note: The product’s rating considers factors like taste, vitamin quality, kid-friendliness, value for money, sugar content, and ease of consumption)

NuBest Tall Multivitamins for Your Child’s Growth

NuBest Tall supports your child’s bone health and overall wellness by filling key nutritional gaps during their growth years, and is perfect for children with selective eating habits.

How Can Your Child Benefit from NuBest? 

NuBest offers carefully selected vitamins, minerals, and herbal extracts to meet the specific needs of toddlers, pre-teens, and teens:

• Calcium and Vitamin K: These work together to help build strong bones, especially during the growing years, giving your kid the strength to stay active [6]

• Vitamin D3: Helps the body absorb calcium while supporting immune health [7,8]

• Magnesium: Works with calcium to promote muscle function and support bone density, making your kid active and strong [9]

• Phosphorus: Helps strengthen bones, and plays an important role in healthy bone development [10]

• Collagen: Maintains healthy joints and bones, and supports your child's growth and flexibility [11, 7]

• Herbal Extracts: Provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits promoting overall health and recovery [12, 13]

• Additionally, NuBest includes a unique blend of herbs and superfoods that improve the body’s natural growth hormone production [14]. This combination also improves sleep, immunity, and recovery from physical activity.

In fact, many parents, like Estephanie from the US, have seen remarkable improvements in their children’s health after using NuBest supplements. Here’s what she had to say:

Why NuBest Stands Out in Children’s Supplements?

• Enhanced Nutrient Absorption: NuBest’s formula is designed for quick absorption, so your kid fully benefits from every nutrient.

• Safe and Pure Formula: Free from additives, gluten-free, and non-GMO, these supplements are a great choice if your child has any dietary restrictions or specific health requirements.

• Proven Quality: Manufactured in GMP-certified and FDA-registered facilities, it guarantees a reliable and safe solution for your child's health.

Pros of NuBest Tall:

• Contains 16 essential nutrients for children’s growth

• High levels of calcium, vitamins, and magnesium

• Supplements include both vegan and non-vegan options

• Includes herbal extracts which offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties

Cons of NuBest Tall:

• Supplements cannot promote height growth once a child’s growth plates have closed (roughly between 13–15 for girls, and 15–17 for boys).

• Sensitive to moisture and should be stored carefully and consumed quickly after opening.

Ratings

• iHerb: 4.6/5

• Amazon: 4.3/5

(Note: The ratings consider nutrients, effectiveness, growth rate, height increase, taste, hardness, chewability, and value for money based on customer reviews.)

How to Choose the Best Kids' Multivitamin

Here’s a guide to help you confidently choose the best multivitamin for your child. We also had a conversation with Ana Reisdorf, MS, RD, for her insights on what parents should prioritize when selecting multivitamins.

1. Comprehensive Nutrient Profile

During our conversation, Ana Reisdorf, MS, RD, for The Food Trends, highlighted the role of vitamins and minerals in supporting the healthy growth of kids and teens. 

She explained, "Vitamins A, C, D, E, and B-complex are important for cell growth, immune system support, and energy production, helping kids stay active and healthy. Minerals such as calcium, iron, zinc, and magnesium are vital for developing strong bones, building muscles, and maintaining overall physical health during growth."

Therefore, you should prefer supplements that include all these essential vitamins and minerals.

2. Age Appropriate Supplements 

As your child grows, their nutritional needs change, so the daily dose of the multivitamin you choose should adapt to these stages. For example:

• Multivitamins for toddlers should focus on supporting basic growth

• Teens experience rapid physical growth, hormonal changes, and increased nutrient demands, so multivitamins for them should be tailored to support these processes

When asked about age-specific dosages, Ana Reisdorf, emphasized, "Parents should always choose a multivitamin appropriate for the child's age group as the dosages increase. Also, never give them adult multivitamins, as the nutrient levels in other supplements may exceed safe limits for kids."

3. Clean and Safe Formulas

Look for multivitamins that are free from unnecessary additives, such as:

• Added sugars or artificial sweeteners

• Artificial colors or flavors

• Common allergens like soy, gluten, or nuts

Clean-label vitamins reduce the risk of reactions and align with your preference for natural and transparent products.

4. Dietary Preferences and Restrictions

If your kid is vegan, prefers a plant-based diet, or is gluten-sensitive, then make sure that the multivitamin you give them follows these dietary restrictions. For example:

• Vegan Formulas: Replace animal-derived ingredients like gelatin with plant-based alternatives such as pectin

• Allergy-friendly Options: Avoid common allergens like soy, eggs, and tree nuts

5. Easy and Enjoyable to Take

The best multivitamin is the one your child will take consistently. Choose a format they find enjoyable:

• Gummies: Popular among younger children but often contain added sugars

• Chewables: Great for older kids who can handle tablet textures

• Liquids or Powders: Ideal for toddlers or children with sensory challenges

6. Quality Assurance 

Make sure to check the multivitamins you're using for the following third-party testing and certifications:

• Third-party Testing: Look for seals like NSF-certified or FDA-approved.

• Non-GMO Project Verified: Ensures the product has no genetically modified ingredient, offering you a natural and pure choice for your child

• USDA Organic: Confirms the absence of harmful pesticides or synthetic fertilizers.

Ana Reisdorf also shared another tip to make sure that the vitamins you're using are safe: "If purchasing on Amazon, be sure to buy ONLY from the brand page and not from a random listing, as there are many counterfeit products." 

7. Health Benefits

Some multivitamins offer additional ingredients to address targeted needs, such as:

• Probiotics: For gut health and improved digestion

• Omega-3 fatty Acids: Support brain function and focus

• Antioxidants: Help fight oxidative stress caused by environmental toxins

When we spoke with Ana Reisdorf about using supplements for specific health benefits, she emphasized: "Consult a pediatrician for individual recommendations tailored to your child's specific needs." 

📌 Learn more about the scientifically proven tips to get taller as a teen.

Summary

When selecting the right multivitamin for your child, consider their age, nutritional needs, and taste preferences. Olly is great for younger children, SmartyPants is a nutrient-packed option for older kids, and NuBest Tall is best for bone health during growing years. 

Each brand offers something unique so that the best choice will depend on your child's specific needs and preferences. Before making the final decision, consult with your child's doctor to find the best fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know which vitamin is best for my child?

The best vitamin depends on your child's age and nutritional needs. Consult a pediatrician so that your child gets the right nutrients for growth. For example, it is recommended that infants, children, adolescents take 400 IU Vitamin D daily, as it may support bone health [15, 7].

Are gummy vitamins as effective as chewable tablets?

Most gummy vitamins can be effective if they match the nutritional content of chewable tablets. So, make sure to compare their nutritional content.

What should I look for in a kids' multivitamin?

When choosing a kids' multivitamin, focus on nutrients like A, C, D, E, calcium, and iron, age-appropriate formulation, minimal additives, and third-party testing for purity and potency.

How much sugar is too much in kids' vitamins?

It's best to choose kids' vitamins with little to zero sugar, as excess sugar can lead to dental cavities and other health issues. The American Heart Association recommends limiting added sugar for children over 2 years to no more than 25 grams per day [16].

Can my child take multiple types of vitamins?

Children should only take the recommended daily amounts of vitamins and minerals, as high doses could lead to adverse effects [17]. Therefore, consult your healthcare provider before giving your child multiple types of vitamins.

Reference sources

1. Januszewski, J., Forma, A., Zembala, J., Flieger, M., Tyczyńska, M., Dring, J. C., Dudek, I., Świątek, K., & Baj, J. (2023). Nutritional supplements for skin health—A review of what should be chosen and why. Medicina, 60(1), 68. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60010068

2. Tardy, A.-L., Pouteau, E., Marquez, D., Yilmaz, C., & Scholey, A. (2020). Vitamins and minerals for energy, fatigue and cognition: A narrative review of the biochemical and clinical evidence. Nutrients, 12(1), 228. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12010228 

3. Kennedy, D. O. (2016). B vitamins and the brain: Mechanisms, dose and efficacy—a review. Nutrients, 8(2), 68. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu8020068 

4. Bodke, H., & Jogdand, S. (n.d.). Role of probiotics in human health. Cureus, 14(11), e31313. https://www.cureus.com/articles/111413-role-of-probiotics-in-human-health#!/ 

5. Pasricha, S.-R., Hayes, E., Kalumba, K., & Biggs, B.-A. (2013). Effect of daily iron supplementation on health in children aged 4-23 months: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. The Lancet. Global Health, 1(2), e77–e86. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2214-109X(13)70046-9 

6. Vannucci, L., Fossi, C., Quattrini, S., Guasti, L., Pampaloni, B., Gronchi, G., Giusti, F., Romagnoli, C., Cianferotti, L., Marcucci, G., & Brandi, M. L. (2018). Calcium intake in bone health: A focus on calcium-rich mineral waters. Nutrients, 10(12), 1930. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10121930 

7. Khazai, N., Judd, S. E., & Tangpricha, V. (2008). Calcium and vitamin d: Skeletal and extraskeletal health. Current Rheumatology Reports, 10(2), 110–117. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2669834/ 

8. Mailhot, G., & White, J. H. (2020). Vitamin d and immunity in infants and children. Nutrients, 12(5), 1233. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12051233 

9. Castiglioni, S., Cazzaniga, A., Albisetti, W., & Maier, J. A. M. (2013). Magnesium and osteoporosis: Current state of knowledge and future research directions. Nutrients, 5(8), 3022–3033. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu5083022 

10. Penido, M. G. M. G., & Alon, U. S. (2012). Phosphate homeostasis and its role in bone health. Pediatric Nephrology (Berlin, Germany), 27(11), 2039–2048. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3461213/ 

11. Martin-Bautista, E., Martin-Matillas, M., Martin-Lagos, J. A., Miranda-Leon, M. T., Muñoz-Torres, M., Ruiz-Requena, E., Rivero, M., Quer, J., Puigdueta, I., & Campoy, C. (2011). A nutritional intervention study with hydrolyzed collagen in pre-pubertal Spanish children: Influence on bone modeling biomarkers. Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology & Metabolism: JPEM, 24(3–4), 147–153.  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21648282/ 

12. Antioxidants. (n.d.). [Text]. Retrieved February 7, 2025, from https://medlineplus.gov/antioxidants.html 

13. Anti inflammatory diet. (2024, February 20). https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/anti-inflammatory-diet 

14. Lim, D. W., & Lee, C. (2023). The effects of natural product-derived extracts for longitudinal bone growth: An overview of in vivo experiments. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24(23), 16608. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms242316608

15. Wagner, C. L., Greer, F. R., & and the Section on Breastfeeding and Committee on Nutrition. (2008). Prevention of rickets and vitamin d deficiency in infants, children, and adolescents. Pediatrics, 122(5), 1142–1152. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2008-1862 

16. Jenco, M., American Heart Association, Vos, M. B., & Daniels, S. R. (2016). AHA: Limit children’s sugar consumption to 6 teaspoons per day [News]. AAP Publications. https://publications.aap.org/aapnews/news/7400/AHA-Limit-children-s-sugar-consumption-to-6 

17. Office of dietary supplements—Multivitamin/mineral supplements. (n.d.). Retrieved February 7, 2025, from https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/MVMS-HealthProfessional/ 

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