Capsules are a container composed of two pieces (either gelatin [animal based] or cellulose [plant based]) which fit together to hold dry ingredients, usually a powder. Capsules typically are in the shape of a cylindrical container with round ends.

Powder supplement have recently become inexpensive when compared to other forms and more readily available to consumers, which has caused the making of super food drinks to be the new rage.

To prevent ingredient clumping, powders supplements often contain additives called flow agent such as magnesium stearate, silicon dioxide, and/or rice husks. Check the ingredient list to see if these are added and as to the quantity that is used.

Liquid-gels, also called Softgels, are similar to capsules but consist of gelatin based shells surrounding a liquid fill which hermetically seals the contents.

Softgels are the first choice when the ingredients are liquid and/or oil based. Softgels also extend the life of liquid ingredients.

Chewable tablets and Gummy supplements are primary formulated for good taste instead of potency and thus often fall short of providing even close to the necessary nutrients.

The foundation of these supplements is sugar, which often degrade the integrity of the ingredients.

Extended Release supplement are available in both capsules and tablets.

These supplements enclose an ingredient in a micro-encapsulation which causes the substance to be slowly released over a period of time rather than all at once. These should not be chewed or crushed because doing so will damage the timed delivery of the product.

Liquid supplements suspend an ingredient in a water or alcohol-based liquid which makes the product easily taken. This is good for individuals who have a problem swallowing pills.

The shelf life of liquid product is much shorter than other supplements and when the bottle is opened, is should be used up very quickly. It is best to store these products in the refrigerator.

Sublingual dissolvable supplements involves placing a small pill under your tongue to dissolve and absorb into your blood through the tissue there.

Buccal administration involves placing the pill between your gums and cheek, where it dissolves and is absorbed into your blood, which by doing so allows for efficient absorption. The percent of each dose absorbed is generally higher than that achieved by means of oral ingestion.

Further, these ingredients do not go through the digestive system, so they are not metabolized through your liver. This means you may be able to take a lower dose and still get the same results. Another advantage is that you do not have to swallow the pill. Supplements and/or drugs that are absorbed under the tongue or between the cheek and gum can be easier to take for people who have problems swallowing pills. DO NOT swallow the pill, but allow it to completely dissolve in the mouth.

Tablets allow the most nutrients to be packed in a given space. Tablets are made by a machine which presses the raw ingredients into a solid substance.

There are two machine press types and the difference is whether or not heat is used when the ingredients are made solid. Adding heat to the pressure is more prone to damaging the raw ingredients and/or compacting it too much to be fully digestedic.

The ingredients of tablets are incredibly shelf stable and retain their potency longer than any other supplement form.

Unless the bottle says otherwise, it is safe to crush or cut the table into smaller pieces or even powder.