Vitamin Supplements: Synthetic or Natural?

Most people claim there is no difference between synthetically derived vitamins and ones derived from natural sources. In fact, synthetic vitamins are cheaper which makes them the preferred choice of those who take vitamin supplements daily. Synthetic vitamins are cheaper because they are derived from more readily available sources. The manufacturing of natural vitamins is much more expensive as it involves more careful techniques, like cold processing, which preserve the bio-availability of nutrients. In contrast, the manufacturing process is similar to pharmaceutical drugs and is less expensive.

s there really any difference between synthetic and natural vitamins? Here are few facts to consider while making your choice.

Chemical Structure. The molecular structure for both synthetic and natural vitamins is the same. Hence, they are known to function identically in the body.

Co-Factors Needed for Maximum Vitamin Absorption. In order to maximize the absorption of vitamins, the body needs minerals, certain enzymes and coenzymes, amino acids, antioxidants, and activators. All of these work together in synergy. Natural vitamins come with additional co-factors that are found only in natural foods. For example, carrot powder contains bioflavonoids like beta carotene which is a precursor to Vitamin A. It also contains a host of other powerful antioxidants like alpha, beta and crypto carotene. These antioxidants are not present in synthetic vitamins.

In natural vitamins, all the nutrients work in synergy with one another making each more effective than if they were taken in isolation from one another. This synergy, along with a higher bio-availability, makes natural vitamins very popular. Bio-availability simply means the rate and degree to which nutrients offered in the supplement are made available to the body for absorption and assimilation.

Understanding this concept, many synthetic vitamins offer a blend of essential vitamins, minerals, amino acids, antioxidants along with L-Glutamine and citrus bioflavonoids. Such synthetic vitamin supplements contain support nutrients that work for nutritional synergy.

Standardization of Potency. Because standardization is not possible with natural vitamins, you may not get the required dosage you need from natural vitamin supplements. Synthetic vitamins can be measured in exact potency.

Contaminants. Many chemicals used in manufacturing synthetic vitamins such as artificial coloring agents, chemical preservatives, binding and coating agents actually hinder absorption of nutrients. In contrast, natural vitamins contain no artificial sweeteners or added chemicals. They are, by and large, chemically free.

To avoid chemical binders and fillers, many synthetic vitamins come in liquid form. Liquid vitamins are more bio-available than tablet vitamins. An even better form of vitamin supplement uses effervescent technology, a popular trend in Europe. In this technology the vitamin supplement comes in powdered form (no need for binders and coatings). When mixed in water, it forms an effervescent drink. The effervescence actually works in the digestive system to enhance the absorption of all nutrients, offering 100% bio-availability.

Some forms of Natural vitamins are better than their synthetic forms. D- Alpha Tocopherol, a form of Vitamin E, is obtained from natural plant oils. This is the only form of Vitamin E that can be digested by the body. Another form of Vitamin E, namely dl-Tocopherol, is only 50% bio-available. Synthetic forms of Vitamin C (also known as ascorbic acid) and B-complex work just as well as the natural forms.

The battle is not between synthetic or natural vitamins, but rather in the quality and purity of a supplement and its bioavailability in the body. Quality and bioavailability in vitamin supplements are the main issues. To summarize:

• Natural vitamins are best when they are processed as whole foods and do not contain vitamins isolated from whole foods.
• Synthetic vitamins are more effectively absorbed when they are taken together with minerals, bioflavonoids and other nutrients that work in synergy for fast and more effective absorption.
• Some vitamins need to be derived from natural sources to make them bio-available to the body, like the natural form of Vitamin E. This is in the form of D-alpha tocopherol and is derived from plant oils. The efficacy of some vitamins is enhanced by bioflavonoids, such being the case with vitamin A.
• Tablet forms of vitamins have the least bio-availability and contain more chemicals, whereas liquid forms offer a bio-availability of up to 90%. Effervescent forms of vitamins offer 100% bio-availability.

Lastly, look for a product manufactured by a reputed vitamin supplement manufacturer. A quality manufacturer practicing GMPs will reduce your risk of purchasing an inferior product that offers you little health benefits. Manufacturers adhering to GMPs adopt stringent quality control measures at every stage of manufacturing and are open to third-party testing of their supplement.

A good diet is essential and supplements are meant to enhance the diet and supply what is lacking. They are never a substitute to good dietary habits through balanced meals. Include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet, and get regular exercise.