Discover why some supplements are larger than others.
The Science Behind Supplement Sizes: Formulation Factors
The size of a supplement tablet or capsule is influenced by several key factors:
- High concentration of ingredients: Nutrients like calcium and magnesium require larger quantities to be effective. A single multivitamin may contain over 20 ingredients, necessitating a larger pill to accommodate them all.
- Added fillers and binders: Tablets are compressed into a hard form, often requiring inactive additives to maintain their shape, allow for correct dispersion of nutrients and play a part in correct disintegration when they are swallowed. Capsules, while using fewer fillers, still need a shell to contain the active ingredients and are often significantly smaller so can only be used for nutrients required in smaller quantities.
- Bulky nutrient forms: The chemical form of a nutrient affects its volume. Chelated minerals, known for better absorption, are bulkier than mineral oxides, resulting in larger tablets.
- Oils and liquids: Supplements with oil-based ingredients, like fish oil, are typically sold as softgels, which are larger to accommodate the liquid.
Manufacturing and Processing
The production process also impacts the size and shape of supplements:
- Protection for ingredients: Coatings or special capsule shells protect sensitive ingredients from stomach acid, ensuring they are released in the intestines, which adds to the pill's size.
- Shelf life and stability: Additives and coatings extend a product's shelf life and protect it from environmental factors like heat and moisture.
Consumer and Marketing Considerations
Consumer preferences and marketing strategies also play a role:
- Compliance and swallowing ease: We always aim to create manageable tablet/capsule sizes. However, for those who have trouble swallowing large tablets/capsules, we often have a smaller version or alternative powdered, liquid, chewable or gummy version to try. Contact our expert Nutrition Advisors for assistance.
- Serving size preferences: Some consumers prefer a single large pill for their daily intake, while others prefer multiple smaller tablets/capsules.
Alternatives for Large Supplements
- Open the capsule: If your supplement is a hard-shelled capsule, you may be able to open it and mix the powder with food. Please check with our Nutrition Advisors first.
- Specific swallowing techniques: Certain techniques can make swallowing easier. Read our article to find out more.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Why are some supplements so large?
Supplements can be substantial in size due to their high concentrations of active ingredients, excipients, and bulky nutrient forms. This larger size also helps us align with the levels used in the most current scientific research. -
What are fillers and binders in supplements?
Fillers and binders are inactive additives used to maintain the shape and stability of tablets, but also of the nutrients themselves. They may also play an important role in absorption, but rest assured we only use what is absolutely necessary for a first-class product. -
Are there smaller versions of large supplements?
Yes, we offer smaller tablets/capsules or alternative forms like gummies, chewables and powders. Contact our Nutrition Advisors for assistance. -
Can I open a capsule to make it easier to consume?
You can open some capsules but always check with our Nutrition Advisors first. -
What are some swallowing techniques for large pills?
Some techniques can help make swallowing tablets/capsules easier. Read our article for more information. -
Why do some supplements have coatings?
Coatings protect sensitive ingredients from stomach acid, extend shelf life and reduce odour of some of the more pungent smelling nutrients as well as making swallowing much easier. -
Are softgels larger than tablets?
Softgels can be larger, but not always, due to the need to accommodate liquid ingredients. -
What is a chelated mineral?
Chelated minerals are bound to organic molecules, enhancing absorption but increasing bulk.