Can Your Body Absorb Synthetic Vitamins? - An Expert's Perspective

For the most part, our bodies are capable of taking in both synthetic and natural forms of vitamins. The only exception is vitamin E, which is better absorbed in its natural form (RRR-alpha tocopherol) than in its synthetic form (pure alpha tocopherol). Supplements that list individual nutrients or use chemical names such as ascorbic acid are almost certainly synthetic. The goal of synthesizing these nutrients is to obtain a cost-effective, high-quality nutrient in a form that the body can absorb and use effectively. Ideally, synthetic vitamins should be similar to their natural counterparts.

However, there are situations where the final product does not have the same molecular structure as the natural version. This is what we call “man-made”. One of the supposed solutions is to add cheap synthetically made vitamins to certain foods, beverages and supplements. Studies on the beneficial health effects of many synthetic nutrients have been inconsistent, weak, or have shown no effect. Let's take a look at how organic vitamins and supplements differ from synthetic ones, so you can make an informed decision about which one is best for you.

Fat-Soluble Vitamins

Fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamins A, D, E, and K, need fatty acids for the body to absorb them properly.

Therefore, while minerals are generally referred to as synthetic, it is only due to the mineral being bonded to another substance for absorption purposes.

Gut Health

You may never have thought about it, but your gut helps you absorb vital nutrients from food and keeps you healthy. Since supplements are taken orally, absorption is largely related to the gastrointestinal capacity to digest and absorb nutrients, which are then transported to the bloodstream via receptors in the intestinal lining. The additional compounds you receive from vitamins made from organic ingredients will interact with your digestive system more naturally than their synthetic counterparts.

Organic vs Synthetic Vitamins

Some nutrients are better obtained naturally or synthesized through fermentation, and some are better in their synthetic forms. However, you'll always want to choose supplement companies that have synthetic nutrients that match their natural counterparts.

The nutrients in your supplements and foods are only as good as your ability to absorb and use them. Scientists will tell you that synthetic supplements are identical to the vitamins and minerals found in foods. Vitamin A (retinyl palmitate), B vitamins, and sometimes vitamins E and K are usually in synthetic forms when produced for dietary supplements. Synthetic vitamins provide you with one or two nutrients, but your body hasn't evolved that way to get these vitamins and minerals. It's important to understand that while synthetic vitamins may be similar in structure to their natural counterparts, they may not be identical.

This means that they may not be absorbed by your body in the same way as natural vitamins. Organic vitamins and supplements offer a number of advantages over their synthetic counterparts. They contain additional compounds that interact with your digestive system more naturally than their synthetic counterparts. Additionally, organic vitamins and supplements contain more of the essential fatty acids needed for proper absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E and K. Finally, organic vitamins and supplements provide more of the essential trace minerals needed for proper absorption of other essential nutrients. In conclusion, it's important to understand that while synthetic vitamins may be similar in structure to their natural counterparts, they may not be identical.

This means that they may not be absorbed by your body in the same way as natural vitamins. Therefore, it's important to choose supplement companies that have synthetic nutrients that match their natural counterparts for optimal absorption.