Feb 02, 2026
3 min read
Stiftung Warentest selects the best vitamin D preparations.Test winners are impressed by the right dosage and effect, but that's why it's an exception.
The best vitamins for vitamin D - only 2 types are suitable
Stiftung Warentest selects the best preparations with vitamin D.The test winners impress with correct dosage and effect, but are therefore the exception.
Vitamin D supplements are essential for many people to maintain their health, especially in the winter months.But which vitamin D preparation is the best?Independent testing institutes have proven which preparations are really effective and safe.Here we present the best vitamin D preparations that delivered particularly good results (you can find further test reports here).
Vitamin D is an important vitamin that is important for bone metabolism, the immune system and muscle function.The body produces it primarily through sunlight, but many people cannot produce enough vitamin D in winter or when there is little sunlight.That’s when vitamin D supplements come into play.
Which vitamin D supplements are the best?
Stiftung Warentest reviewed 25 vitamin D preparations in issue 01/2026.Products from pharmacies, as well as drugstores and supermarkets were tested.You can find the complete test report on the best vitamin D preparations from Stiftung Warentest here (fees apply).
When choosing the winner of the competition, Stiftung Warrenst paid special attention to safe dosages and good efficiency.They came up with only two contest winners that could be offered.Both preparations are characterized by the appropriate dosage and are suitable for regular consumption to prevent vitamin D deficiency.These are the contest winners:
- rutabaga essential vitamin D (400 ie pro tag)
- GSE organic vitamin D (200 IE pro label)
According to Steftung Warentest, "RotBäcCchen Vital Vitamin Deople preparation" in an amount of 400 IU per day or international units (equivalent to 16,000 microphrams) especially in the winter months.
“GSE Vitamin D Bio” comes in a dosage of 200 IU daily and also works well.Therefore, it offers a gentle dose that is especially suitable for people who have a lower need for vitamin D.On the other hand, other products tested are often not helpful and, more importantly, the dose is too high, which in the worst case can lead to long-term kidney damage.
In addition to the correct preparations, it is important to pay attention to the dosage to avoid an overdose.The German Nutrition Society (DGE) recommends a daily dose of 800 IU for adults.Too much vitamin D can cause long-term health problems.Vitamin D deficiency can manifest itself in symptoms such as bone pain, muscle weakness or cramps.
In the long term, a deficiency can lead to osteoporosis and other health problems.A vitamin D supplement can help stabilize levels, especially in the winter or for people who spend a lot of time indoors.However, before taking a medicine, you should always check if medical advice is necessary, especially in high-risk groups such as the elderly or people with chronic conditions.
What is the difference between vitamin D and vitamin D3?
Vitamin D is a collective term for different substances.What we usually understand how vitamin D and what we consume with food and dietary supplements are strictly speaking vitamin D3, also known as Choleekalsypirtol.Vitamin D2, also known as Ergocalsiferol, can also be relevant.
This substance is found in plants and can be converted into vitamin D3 in the body.If you know which foods are high in vitamin D, you can supplement your household with food.It is always best to consult a doctor to determine if a nutritional supplement is still needed.
What should you not take with vitamin D?
Vitamin D and other similar dietary supplements are not always worth it - and the combination can also raise concerns.Are there interactions between the preparations that may be ineffective or harmful?According to Ingolf Cascorby from the Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology in Kiel, this is not the case.
According to Augsburger Allgemeine, no clinically relevant relationships are known.Some preparations can have positive effects together.For example, magnesium stimulates the synthesis of vitamin D, but you should be careful not to take too much of the substance.For example, excess vitamin D can cause high blood pressure, which in severe cases can lead to kidney failure.
How do you know if you don't have enough vitamin D?
However, lack of vitamin D is not a joy either.According to msdmanuals.com, those who have too little vitamin D in their bodies for too long often suffer from muscle or bone pain.Weakness and cramps may also occur.Especially those who are still growing may find that their bones are not developing properly.The result is additional pain and health problems.
