Synthetic Ingredients in Supplements
What Are Synthetic Vitamins and Minerals?
Let’s talk about synthetic vitamins and minerals—what they are, why they’re used, and whether they’re really that different from natural ones. The short answer? They’re lab-created versions of naturally occurring nutrients designed to ensure stability, consistency, and effectiveness in supplements.
4 Things That Make a Nutrient “Synthetic”
#1 Source
Made in a controlled environment rather than extracted from food.
#2 Structure
Designed to be chemically identical or nearly identical to natural nutrients, though they may lack some supporting compounds, such as flavonoids, polyphenols, and other phytonutrients that contribute to nutrient absorption and overall health.
#3 Absorption
Some synthetic nutrients are absorbed just as well—or even better—than natural ones, while others may require additional cofactors for best results.
#4 Purpose
To provide a reliable, accessible source of essential vitamins and minerals.
What About Natural Forms of Vitamins and Minerals?
Natural vitamins and minerals come from whole food sources like fruits, vegetables, grains, and animal products. Because they exist in a complex matrix of nutrients, they often contain additional compounds that can aid in absorption.
Why Choose Natural Nutrients?
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They’re often better absorbed due to the presence of complementary compounds.
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Whole food sources provide a broader spectrum of beneficial nutrients.
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The body may process them more efficiently in some cases.
Which Is Better: Synthetic or Natural?
It’s not about one being “better” than the other—it’s about which form delivers the nutrients your body needs in the most effective way. In some cases, synthetic forms are actually preferred because they’re more stable, bioavailable, or concentrated than their natural counterparts.
5 Reasons Why Synthetic Forms Are Used
#1 Nutrient Density
Natural vitamin sources contain extra compounds and water, making them bulkier. If supplements used only natural sources, they’d be significantly larger—sometimes impractically so.
#2 Nutrient Consistency
Nutrient levels in food can vary based on factors like soil quality and processing. Synthetic forms ensure every dose contains exactly what’s promised.
#3 Nutrient Stability
Natural vitamins degrade over time when exposed to heat, light, or air. Synthetic versions are often more stable, giving supplements a longer shelf life and maintaining their potency.
#4 Nutrient Availability
Some nutrients, like Vitamin D and B12, are difficult to obtain in large enough amounts from food alone, making synthetic supplementation a practical choice.
#5 Nutrient Affordability
Extracting vitamins from whole foods can be expensive and resource-intensive. Synthetic forms help keep supplements affordable and widely available.
Myths and Misinformation About Synthetic and Natural Ingredients
Myth 1: Synthetic Vitamins Are Always Inferior
Not true! Some synthetic nutrients are actually more effective. For example, folic acid (a synthetic form of vitamin B9) is the most researched and recommended form for reducing the risk of neural tube defects in pregnancy. Certain synthetic forms of vitamin B12, such as methylcobalamin, are also highly bioavailable and effective for addressing deficiencies.
Myth 2: Natural Vitamins Are Always Safer
Natural nutrients are great, but they can vary in potency due to factors like soil quality, processing methods, and storage conditions, which can impact their consistency and nutrient levels. However, this variation does not necessarily make them less safe—just less predictable in terms of exact nutrient content. Some plant-based sources contain anti-nutrients that inhibit absorption.
Myth 3: Synthetic Nutrients Are Not Recognised by the Body
Most synthetic vitamins are chemically identical or nearly identical to their natural counterparts. However, their absorption and metabolism can vary. Some synthetic nutrients, like folic acid, require additional conversion steps in the body to be utilised effectively, while others, such as ascorbic acid (vitamin C), are absorbed in a similar way to their natural forms. Research suggests that differences in absorption may depend on the nutrient type and individual health factors. (Bailey RL et al., 2017; Gregory JF, 1997)
Mother Natal Complete Support: A Thoughtful Blend of Synthetic and Natural Forms
At Mother Natal, we believe in choosing nutrients based on what works best for your body, not just whether they’re labelled “natural” or “synthetic.” We carefully balance high-quality natural and bioidentical ingredients to create a supplement that’s safe, effective, and scientifically backed.
Here’s how we approach formulation:
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Folate: We include both folic acid (the most researched form for neural tube defect prevention) and levomefolic acid (a naturally bioactive form) to ensure optimal support.
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Iron: We use iron bisglycinate, a highly absorbable form that’s gentle on digestion.
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Vitamin B12: Our formula includes mecobalamin, a bioavailable form that supports energy and red blood cell production.
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Vitamin E: D-alpha tocopheryl acid succinate is included for its stability and effectiveness.
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Magnesium: Magnesium amino acid chelate is chosen for its superior absorption and gentle effect on digestion.
We don’t choose ingredients based on buzzwords—we choose them based on what benefits you.
All content and media on the Mother Natal website are created and published for informational purposes only. This article is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice.
FAQs About Synthetic Vs. Natural Supplements
1. Are synthetic vitamins bad for you?
Not at all! Many synthetic vitamins are designed for optimal absorption and stability. The key is choosing high-quality supplements.
2. How do I know if my supplement contains synthetic ingredients?
Check the label for scientific names or ask the manufacturer for transparency on ingredient sourcing.
3. Are natural vitamins always better?
Not necessarily. While natural vitamins contain beneficial cofactors, synthetic versions can be more stable.