Food Hypocrites

How They’re Made and Their Role in Health

As someone passionate about health and wellness, I have always been curious about where our vitamins and minerals come from. Are natural options really better, or can synthetic supplements do the trick? Let’s break it down.

How Natural Vitamins and Minerals Are Made

Natural vitamins and minerals are derived directly from whole foods. The process often involves: harvesting, extraction, concentration and stabilization. Plants or other natural sources are grown and harvested at peak nutrient levels. Nutrients are carefully separated from the food to preserve their natural properties using methods like cold pressing, fermentation, or water extraction. The nutrients are then concentrated and lastly, stabilized using methods like freeze-drying and dehydration alongside natural preservatives such as vitamin E or rosemary extract.  

Common Natural Sources:

• Vitamin C: Derived from acerola cherries, camu camu berries, and citrus fruits.
• Calcium: Naturally found in marine algae and dairy products.
• Iron: Often sourced from leafy greens like spinach or animal liver.

How Synthetic Vitamins and Minerals Are Made

Synthetic vitamins and minerals are made in laboratories using chemical approaches to mimic the structure of natural nutrients.

Scientists create vitamin and mineral compounds using petroleum byproducts, coal tar derivatives, or starches as core ingredients. These components are chemically manipulated to resemble natural vitamins and minerals. They are then purified to remove impurities and lastly, stabilized using techniques such as freeze-drying, dehydration, or chemical coatings to ensure potency and shelf life.

Common Synthetic Sources:

• Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid): Often made from corn syrup through a series of chemical reactions.
• Vitamin E (dl-alpha-tocopherol): Typically synthesized from petroleum by-products.
• Calcium Carbonate: Derived from limestone or other mineral rocks.

Key Differences Between Natural and Synthetic Vitamins and Minerals

• Bioavailability: Natural vitamins and minerals are absorbed more efficiently since they have co-factors like enzymes and other nutrients. Synthetic versions may require higher doses for similar effects.
• Nutrient Complexity: Whole food-based vitamins and minerals often contain a wider range of supportive nutrients. Synthetic versions typically provide isolated compounds.
• Digestive Impact: Some synthetic vitamins may cause stomach discomfort or side effects if taken in large amounts or without food.

Are Synthetic Vitamins and Minerals Effective?

Synthetic supplements can still be highly effective, especially for those with restricted diets, absorption challenges, or increased nutritional needs. For example, synthetic folic acid (vitamin B9) is recommended for pregnant women to help prevent birth defects. Similarly, calcium carbonate is a known synthetic option to support bone health.

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose natural or synthetic supplements, It is essential to understand what your body needs. I recommend reading labels, seeking high-quality products, and consulting your healthcare provider for personalized advice. After all, the right balance can make all the difference in feeling your best every day.

https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/vitamins/vitamin-C

https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminE-HealthProfessional/

https://academic.oup.com/ajcn/article/78/3/533S/4690390

https://www.hindawi.com/journals/jnme/

Combs Jr, Gerald F. “The Vitamins: Fundamental Aspects in Nutrition and Health.” Elsevier Science, ISBN: 978-0-12-183493-7