2023-05-01
Vitamins and minerals are essential nutrients that our bodies need to function properly. They play a vital role in maintaining our overall health and wellbeing. While we can obtain these nutrients through a healthy and balanced diet, many people turn to supplements to ensure they are getting enough of these vital nutrients. However, not all supplements are created equal. There are two types of vitamins and minerals: natural and synthetic.
Let’s explore the differences and health benefits between these two types of vitamins and minerals.
Natural vitamins and minerals come from whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, and nuts. They are extracted from these foods using a variety of methods, including cold pressing, juicing, and drying. Natural vitamins and minerals are often considered to be the superior form of these nutrients due to their increased bioavailability.
Bioavailability refers to the amount of a nutrient that can be absorbed and utilized by the body. Natural vitamins and minerals are often in a form that is easier for the body to absorb, making them more bioavailable. In addition, natural vitamins and minerals are often accompanied by other nutrients, such as fiber and antioxidants, which work together to provide a more holistic form of nutrition.
Examples of natural vitamins and minerals include vitamin C from citrus fruits, vitamin E from nuts and seeds, and iron from spinach and other leafy greens.
Synthetic vitamins and minerals, also known as isolated nutrients, are made in a laboratory. They are created by chemically isolating the nutrient from its natural source, often through a process of extraction and purification. While synthetic vitamins and minerals can be cheaper and easier to manufacture than their natural counterparts, they may not be as effective at delivering the nutrients our bodies need.
One of the benefits of synthetic vitamins and minerals is that they can be standardized, meaning that the same amount of the nutrient is present in each supplement. This makes it easier to know exactly how much of the nutrient you are getting in each dose. Synthetic vitamins and minerals can also be made at higher concentrations, meaning that you can get more of the nutrient in each dose.
Examples of synthetic vitamins and minerals include folic acid, which is often added to fortified cereals and breads, and vitamin D3, which is often derived from sheep’s wool.
The debate between natural and synthetic vitamins and minerals has been ongoing for many years. While both types can provide essential nutrients to the body, they differ in several aspects. In this section, we will explore the differences and benefits of natural and synthetic vitamins and minerals.
Bioavailability refers to the amount of a nutrient that can be absorbed and utilized by the body. Natural vitamins and minerals are derived from whole food sources and are often bound to other compounds that help with absorption. Synthetic vitamins and minerals, on the other hand, are chemically produced in a laboratory and are not bound to other compounds.
Studies have shown that natural vitamins and minerals have higher bioavailability compared to synthetic ones. For example, natural vitamin E is absorbed twice as much as synthetic vitamin E. Similarly, the bioavailability of natural vitamin C is higher than synthetic vitamin C.
Whole foods contain a variety of nutrients that work together synergistically to provide proper nutrition. Natural vitamins and minerals are often found in whole food sources and are therefore accompanied by other nutrients that help with absorption and utilization.
Synthetic vitamins and minerals lack these co-factors and may not work as effectively in the body.
Natural vitamins and minerals are generally considered safe and have minimal side effects. Synthetic vitamins and minerals, however, can have adverse effects when taken in high doses.
For example, synthetic vitamin A can be toxic when taken in excessive amounts and Synthetic vitamin E can also have adverse effects on the body.
Synthetic vitamins and minerals are generally less expensive than their natural counterparts. However, they may not provide the same level of supplementation as natural vitamins and minerals.
While natural vitamins and minerals may be more expensive, they provide a wide range of nutrients that work together synergistically. In the long run, investing in natural supplements may be more cost-effective than taking synthetic supplements that may not provide the same level of supplementation.
There are key differences between natural and synthetic vitamins and minerals, including their sources, manufacturing processes, and bioavailability. Natural vitamins and minerals are derived from whole food sources and are often more easily absorbed and utilized by the body. They also contain beneficial co-factors and other nutrients that work synergistically to support overall health.
Synthetic vitamins and minerals, on the other hand, are typically manufactured in a laboratory and may not be as easily absorbed or utilized by the body. However, they can be a cost-effective option for individuals with nutrient deficiencies or those who require high doses of specific nutrients.
Understanding the differences between natural and synthetic vitamins and minerals can help in making informed decisions for a successful supplementation routine. By choosing supplements that prioritize bioavailability, nutrient synergy, and safety, individuals can support their overall health and well-being.
Be sure to check out the newest line of products from Three™ if you are considering supplements derived from natural sources and are highly bioavailable.
