Black Americans are amongst the groups that have the lowest levels of vitamin D, according to the Cooper Institute.
In their study, researchers at the institute found that 76% of Black Americans involved in their study lacked vitamin D. The rate is almost twice that of the overall vitamin D deficiency amongst all American adults which was found to be 40%.
Here are five Black-owned vitamin companies that offer vitamin D supplements and more for complete health.
- Peak and Valley: Created by CEO and entrepreneur Nadine Joseph, Peak and Valley is a vitamin company that was launched all because of stress. While studying the neuroscience behind stress, Joseph discovered and ventured into the world of adaptogens, different herbs and mushrooms that work against the effects of stress on the body. Incorporating the adaptogens in her own daily routine, she found that not only did she feel less stressed and more energized, but her eczema was also healed.
Inspired by her own experiences to start her own company, Joseph launched Peak and Valley in 2019. Available on their official website, the company offers many supplements in powdered form as additives to drinks like tea, coffee and milk. Amongst their products is the “Restore My Sleep Blend,” a supplement for better sleep made out of a mix of tart cherry, Ashwagandha, chamomile, L-Theanine and melatonin.
- ProBLK: Created by Howard University College of Medicine Graduate Dr. Karleena Tuggle McDaniel and her husband, ProBLK is a supplement company that emphasizes the importance of physical health, mental health and spiritual health. The company’s main mission is to help the Black community heal, as 92% of Black Americans are lacking some kind of vitamin. Created using plant-based material, their vitamins are vegan and vegetarian-friendly as they lack gelatin. Amongst the products they offer are the “Sunny Dayz” Vitamin D gummies, the “Keep Yo Guard Up” Elderberry Gummies and the Gut Reaction Probiotic Capsules.
- My Happy Flo: This vitamin supplement company is geared towards anyone with a uterus that experiences menstrual cramps. Founded by bodybuilder Necole Kane last year, My Happy Flo’s main mission is to help Black women ease any pain monthly menstruation brings and balance their hormones. Their product incorporates compounds- such as DIM and I3C- from vegetables like broccoli, and flaxseeds as well as vitamins such as vitamin C, vitamin B12 and zinc. Available on their website, the My Happy Flo Plant-Based Period Relief Vitamin ranges in price from $34.49 to $43.99.
- VeganSmart: Most famous for their All-In-One Nutritional Shake, VeganSmart is an all-vegan brand that was founded by entrepreneurs Kareem Cook and Claude Tellis. As friends that attended Duke University together, Cook and Tellis were able to lay the foundations of the brand by bonding over family members they had lost because of illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease. Available in markets from Walmart to Sam’s Club, their famous All-In-One Nutritional Protein Shake is plant-based, low calorie and offers customers an already-made mix of antioxidants, flavonoids and prebiotics.
- Dr. Sebi’s Cell Food: Created by Dr. Sebi, an herbalist, this company’s based on what he learned about the healing properties of nature by studying herbs in Africa, North America, South America and Central America. Devoted to preventing illnesses and managing health, Dr. Sebi’s influence has spread across the field. Amongst his products are the “Commit To The Cleanse” capsules, the “Iron Plus” tonic and the “Viento” brain health capsules.
