Discover the best vegan supplements to support your health, from multivitamins to protein powders, and fill key nutrient gaps in your diet
Going vegan is more than just a dietary choice; Fit Living view it as a holistic approach to wellness based on one’s goals.
Plant-based diets certainly offer many benefits, but they also require conscious diet planning to prevent deficiencies.
Many of us need an extra boost to check all the boxes.This guide addresses potential gaps and offers ways to fill them.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of the best vegan supplements for 2025 – from green powders like Live It Up Greens and multivitamins like Garden of Life’s Vitamin Code Family to creatine in Crazy Nutrition’s Ultimate CRN-5.
Scroll down or select from the sections below to get started.
Contents:
- Key nutrients often missing in a vegan diet
- The role of supplements in supporting vegan lifestyles
- The best vegan supplements for 2025 and all you need to know about them
- Factors to consider when choosing a vegan supplement
- What do certified vegan, non-GMO, and organic standards labels mean?
- How to integrate the best vegan supplements into your daily routine
- FAQs on vegan supplements
- Final thoughts on vegan supplements
Key nutrients often missing in a vegan diet
A vegan diet often falls short of certain nutrients. Below, we’ll cover what’s most commonly lacking and why.
We’ll also focus on why these nutrients are important to your body.
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Supplements work alongside a balanced diet to ensure all your nutritional needs are met. Photo © kucherav/Adobe Stock
Vitamin B12
B12 plays a critical role in nerve function and red blood cell production. It is primarily found in animal products, making it a relatively common deficiency in vegan diets1.
Iron
While plant-based foods like lentils, tofu, and spinach contain iron, it’s in the non-heme form.
This means it is harder for the body to absorb compared with heme iron, found in meat, so vegans might require more to meet their needs2.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3s are essential for brain health and reducing inflammation3.
They’re typically abundant in fish, while vegan sources include flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts.
Calcium
While leafy greens and fortified plant milk provide calcium, many vegans benefit from additional supplementation to keep their bones and teeth strong4.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D supports bone health and immune function5.
You can soak it in through sun exposure. Yet, those seeking the best vegan vitamin D3 and K2 supplements for additional support should look for algae-derived options.
Zinc
Zinc is found in whole grains, nuts, and legumes.
However, phytates often inhibit its absorption from plant-based sources6, which makes zinc a popular choice among vegan supplements.
Protein
You can meet all your protein needs on a vegan diet, with peas, brown rice, and hemp being excellent sources7.
However, protein powders are still some of the best vegan bodybuilding supplements, and many gym-goers love to add protein supplements to their diet.
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Most of these key nutrients are available in vegan food sources, but supplementation can help boost levels when needed. Photo © amixstudio/Adobe Stock
The role of supplements in supporting vegan lifestyles
Supplements boost the overall quality of a vegan diet, providing concentrated doses of nutrients to ensure consistent intake.
Aside from addressing potential deficiencies, they can play a critical role in situations that require more nutrients.
The best vegan supplements for 2025 and all you need to know about them
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Here are the essential details about 11 of the best vegan-friendly supplements that provide the essential nutrients mentioned above.
1. Greens Powder – Live It Up Super Greens
Pros:
- Packed with organic greens, antioxidants, and digestive enzymes
- Vegan-certified and free from additives
- Provides a natural energy boost without caffeine
Cons:
- The taste may not appeal to everyone, even with natural flavours
Ingredients:
- Super greens
- Digestive enzymes and probiotics
- Essential multivitamins and minerals
Benefits and side effects:
Super Greens promotes detoxification, supports gut health, and enhances daily nutrient intake with antioxidants to help combat oxidative stress.
However, mild bloating or gases in the initial stages of using the supplement are possible.
Pricing:
1 month at $59.99 or $39.99 for subscribers on the official website.
2. Multivitamin – Garden of Life Vitamin Code Family
Pros:
- Immunity support and antioxidants
- Includes probiotics and digestive enzymes
- Made from organic, whole food sources
Cons:
- Require one to take four capsules daily
Ingredients:
- Raw organic fruit and vegetable blend
- Probiotic and enzyme blend
- Gluthathione
Benefits and Side Effects:
As one of the best vegan supplements on Reddit, Vitamin Code Family’s whole-food-based nutrients can provide excellent energy and metabolism support.
The probiotics and enzymes may also aid in digestion, making it ideal for people with sensitive stomachs.
The potential side effects are mild digestive issues (upset stomach or bloating).
Pricing:
1 month for $32.19 on the official website.
3. Iron – Performance Lab Iron Complex
Pros:
- Gentle on the stomach
- Includes cofactors like vitamin C for better absorption
- Free from allergens and additives
Cons:
- Visible results take time
Ingredients:
- Vitamin C
- Iron
- NutriCaps® Pullulan Capsule
- Nu-FLOW® Rice Concentrate
Benefits and side effects:
Primary benefits include reduced fatigue and improved concentration, and these don’t take too long to see.
After prolonged use, Performance Lab’s Iron Complex promises more energy, better cognitive function, and a stronger immune response.
Bloating has been reported as a side effect.
Pricing:
1 month for $29 or $26.10 when you subscribe on the official website.
4. Zinc – Ancient Nutrition Ancient Nutrients Zinc + Probiotics
Pros:
- Combines zinc with probiotics for dual benefits
- Supports immune and gut health
- Made with organic, whole-food sources
- Free from gluten, dairy, and soy
Cons:
- Probiotic strains may not be adequate for those seeking robust gut flora support
Ingredients:
- Zinc
- Bacillus subtilis
Benefits and side effects:
Zinc has many benefits, from immunity support to improved skin health and digestion. This mineral is also crucial for wound healing and maintaining cellular repair.
What’s more, probiotics promote a healthy gut microbiome while also encouraging nutrient absorption.
The potential side effects are nausea or upset stomach when taken on an empty stomach.
Pricing:
1 month for $24.95 or $21.21 for subscribers on the official website.
5. Testosterone Booster – TestoPrime
Pros:
- A vegan-friendly formula that naturally boosts testosterone levels
- Includes ashwagandha, d-aspartic acid, and vitamins for hormonal support
- Improves energy and muscle growth
Cons:
- Requires consistent use for a long time to see results
Ingredients:
- D-aspartic acid
- Ashwagandha extract
- B and D vitamins
- Zinc
Benefits and side effects:
TestoPrime is a good choice for vegans who engage in bodybuilding or high-intensity workouts. That’s because the adaptogens and vitamins help stimulate natural testosterone production to provide these benefits.
Potential side effects are headaches and digestive issues.
Pricing:
1 month for $64.99 or $55.24 when you subscribe on the official website.
6. Creatine – Crazy Nutrition Ultimate CRN-5
Pros:
- Plant-based creatine
- Enhanced with electrolytes for hydration
- Boosts gym performance
Cons:
- The flavoured powder is less versatile than unflavoured ones
Ingredients:
- Creatine monohydrate
- Magnesium
- Potassium
Benefits and side effects:
This creatine supplement promises better absorption and sustained energy during workouts, while electrolytes help prevent dehydration.
It’s widely rated as one of the best vegan bodybuilding supplements available today.
Potential side effects are bloating or water retention.
Pricing:
1 month for $44.99 or subscribe and save: $31.49 on the official website.
7. BCAA – Snap BCAA Powder
Pros:
- Contains a 2:1:1 ratio of leucine, isoleucine, and valine
- Boosts recovery and promotes mental focus
- Includes electrolytes for hydration support
- Vegan-certified with no artificial flavours or sugar
Cons:
- Just two flavour options available
Ingredients:
- BCAA complex
- Essential amino acids
- Electrolytes
Benefits and side effects:
It aids in muscle recovery, reduces fatigue, and prevents muscle breakdown during prolonged physical activity.
Electrolytes enhance hydration, making it a dual-purpose supplement that assists you with recovery.
The potential side effects are mild digestive problems.
Pricing:
1 month for $29.95 or subscribe & save: $21.00 on the official website.
8. Protein – Ritual Essential Protein Daily Shake
Pros:
- Made with organic pea protein
- Contains added choline for brain and muscle health
- Non-GMO and sustainably sourced
Cons:
- The mild vanilla taste may not appeal to all palates
Ingredients:
- Amino acid complex
- Pea protein
- Choline
- L-methionine
- Sodium
- Calcium
Benefits and side effects:
It supports muscle repair and overall recovery, especially for vegans needing high-quality protein sources.
The protein powder may also help build strength and enhance your brain function through choline.
The potential side effects are bloating or mild discomfort if not mixed properly.
Pricing:
1 month for $44 or $49 for subscribers on the official website.
9. Vitamin D – MindBodyGreen Vitamin D3 Potency+
Pros:
- Supports bone health, muscles, and immune system
- Uses vegan-certified D3 derived from algae
- Enhanced with organic extra virgin olive oil for better absorption
Cons:
- Available in capsule form only
Ingredients:
- Vitamin D3
- Flaxseed oil
- Avocado oil
- Extra virgin oil
Benefits and side effects:
Supplements with Vitamin D3 are important to add to our diet because vitamin D is crucial for immunity, enhancing calcium absorption, and cardiovascular health5.
As one of the best vegan supplements, Vitamin D3 Potency+ may help you maintain bone and muscle health while also boosting immunity.
The potential side effects are upset stomach or headaches at higher doses.
Pricing:
1-month for $30 or $25 with a subscription on the official website.
10. Magnesium – Nested Naturals Magnesium Glycinate
Pros:
- Features chelated magnesium glycinate for superior bioavailability and absorption
- Gentle on the stomach, with minimal laxative effects
- Supports muscle relaxation, stress management, and sleep quality
Cons:
- A two-capsule serving only offers 48% daily value
Ingredients:
- Magnesium (82% chelated magnesium glycinate with 18% magnesium oxide)
Benefits and side effects:
The supplement primarily aids in addressing magnesium deficiencies.
It may help improve your sleep quality, reduce muscle cramps, and support the overall nervous system.
The potential side effects are mild bloating or gastrointestinal discomfort when taken in higher doses.
Pricing:
2-month supply at $21.95 or $17.56 for subscribers on the official website.
Factors to consider when choosing a vegan supplement
Selecting the best vegan supplements for yourself is essential to support your diet, health, and well-being. Here’s what you should bear in mind:
Bioavailability
This translates to how well your body can absorb and use any given nutrient.
Check the form of active ingredients each formula contains to ensure it aligns with your body.
Certification
Look for vegan-certified, non-GMO-verified, or USDA organic products.
These labels indicate that the product meets high standards for plant-based formulations and ingredient sourcing.
Dosage
Carefully review the dosage recommendations and follow them to avoid adverse effects.
Moreover, it’s also advisable that you consult a healthcare professional whenever you plan to start a new regimen.
Nutrient gaps in your vegan diet
Assess your diet with the help of a nutritionist or use dietary tracking apps to pinpoint where your diet may fall short.
A well-planned vegan diet can cover most nutritional bases, but you should pay attention to:
- Vitamin B12
- Iron
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Vitamin D
- Calcium
- Zinc
Omega-3 is an important nutrient that is available in a few specific plant sources. Supplements can help if your diet is falling short. Photo © Galina Zhigalova/Adobe Stock
What do certified vegan, non-GMO, and organic standards labels mean?
Opting for products with these certifications ensures their quality:
- Vegan certified: Guarantees the product contains no animal-derived ingredients
- Non-GMO verified: Indicates the absence of genetically modified organisms
- USDA organic: Ensures the supplement is made without synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or artificial preservatives
How to integrate the best vegan supplements into your daily routine
Are you trying to address specific nutrient gaps or boost your overall wellness? Here’s what you can do:
Recommended dosages and usage tips
Carefully follow the manufacturer’s recommended dosage.
Over-supplementing can lead to imbalances or side effects, so it’s better to begin with a lower dose and gradually increase it.
Timing and consistency for optimal results
Multivitamins and B-complex vitamins provide an energy boost, so they’re best taken in the morning.
In contrast, magnesium or melatonin-based supplements are ideally taken in the evening, as they can support relaxation and better sleep.
It's important to understand the contents, dosage, and usage instructions for any supplements you take. Photo © monticellllo/Adobe Stock
FAQs on vegan supplements
Below, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about vegan supplementation.
Which supplements are necessary for vegans?
A well-planned vegan diet can meet most nutritional needs, but you should pay more attention to vitamin B12, omega-3, and iron.
What vitamins do vegans usually lack?
Vitamin B12 deficiency is the most common one, and others include vitamin D. Vegan multivitamins usually aim to address such deficiencies through well-rounded products.
Yet, it could also help if you soak in more direct sunlight and eat more fortified foods to get the nutrients you need.
What are the best vegan supplements for athletes?
For athletes following a vegan diet, certain supplements can help enhance physical performance, muscle recovery, and overall health.
Protein supplements are often a top priority, but BCAAs may also assist in reducing muscle soreness, while creatine could boost strength and power.
Final thoughts on vegan supplements
If you’re not tracking your intake with great care or have known deficiencies, opting for the best vegan supplements can be a straightforward way to fix them.
However, it’s important to address specific nutrient gaps and choose products like Live It Up Super Greens or Garden of Life Vitamin Code Family for your unique dietary needs.
But remember that consistency and thoughtful integration into your daily routine is key, and always consult a healthcare provider or nutritionist when in doubt.
Looking to get even more nutrients through your diet? Here’s how to eat 30 plants a week
Featured photo © Ilona/Adobe Stock
References
- Fernandes S, Oliveira L, Pereira A, Costa MDC, Raposo A, Saraiva A, Magalhães B. Exploring Vitamin B12 Supplementation in the Vegan Population: A Scoping Review of the Evidence. Nutrients. 2024 May 10;16(10):1442. doi: 10.3390/nu16101442. PMID: 38794680; PMCID: PMC11124153.
- Mayer Labba IC, Hoppe M, Gramatkovski E, Hjellström M, Abdollahi M, Undeland I, Hulthén L, Sandberg AS. Lower Non-Heme Iron Absorption in Healthy Females from Single Meals with Texturized Fava Bean Protein Compared to Beef and Cod Protein Meals: Two Single-Blinded Randomized Trials. Nutrients. 2022 Jul 30;14(15):3162. doi: 10.3390/nu14153162. PMID: 35956338; PMCID: PMC9370477.
- DiNicolantonio JJ, O’Keefe JH. The Importance of Marine Omega-3s for Brain Development and the Prevention and Treatment of Behavior, Mood, and Other Brain Disorders. Nutrients. 2020 Aug 4;12(8):2333. doi: 10.3390/nu12082333. PMID: 32759851; PMCID: PMC7468918.
- National Institutes of Health. (2019, December 6). Calcium. Nih.gov. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Calcium-Consumer/
- Durrant LR, Bucca G, Hesketh A, Möller-Levet C, Tripkovic L, Wu H, Hart KH, Mathers JC, Elliott RM, Lanham-New SA, Smith CP. Vitamins D2 and D3 Have Overlapping But Different Effects on the Human Immune System Revealed Through Analysis of the Blood Transcriptome. Front Immunol. 2022 Feb 24;13:790444. doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.790444. PMID: 35281034; PMCID: PMC8908317.
- Marolt G, Kolar M. Analytical Methods for Determination of Phytic Acid and Other Inositol Phosphates: A Review. Molecules. 2020 Dec 31;26(1):174. doi: 10.3390/molecules26010174. PMID: 33396544; PMCID: PMC7795710.
- Enjoy Vegetarian Meals | MyPlate. (n.d.). www.myplate.gov. https://www.myplate.gov/tip-sheet/enjoy-vegetarian-meals
