Synthetic or natural vitamin C?

Vitamin C , also known as ascorbic acid, is an essential nutrient that our body cannot produce on its own, so we must get it from our diet, especially from fruits and vegetables. This vitamin has many important functions in the body – it participates in the formation of amino acid molecules, neurotransmitters and hormones. It also helps regulate gene expression and epigenetics. Vitamin C can be obtained not only from natural sources, but also in the form of supplements containing synthetic ascorbic acid. A question that interests many people is whether our body can use both of these forms of the vitamin equally well.

Are synthetic and natural vitamin C really the same?

Chemically, synthetic vitamin C is identical to natural vitamin C, which means that there are no differences between them at the molecular level, in both cases it is ascorbic acid. Although it is the same substance, scientists and users alike question whether natural sources of vitamin C offer an advantage due to other substances present, such as nutrients and phytonutrients, which can affect the absorption and effect of vitamin C in the body.

The most attention is paid to flavonoids, which are natural substances found in plant sources of vitamin C. Flavonoids can promote better utilization of vitamin C by enhancing its effect in the body or helping to protect it. Although food vitamins often come "packaged" with these beneficial substances, synthetic vitamin C lacks these components.

What do studies say about the effect of synthetic or natural vitamin C?

Animal research suggests that there are differences between synthetic and natural vitamin C – some animals' bodies respond slightly better to natural vitamin C. However, results vary depending on the species of animal, the method of measurement and the type of study, which means that it cannot be said unequivocally that natural vitamin C is always better for animals.

However, when we look at human studies, the picture is somewhat different. In most studies focusing on the "steady state" of vitamin C levels in the body, no significant differences were found between synthetic and natural vitamin C. Short-term studies have shown only minor deviations, which, however, are unlikely to have a major impact on health.

Does it make sense to choose natural or synthetic vitamin C?

When it comes to the absorption and utilization of vitamin C, the body can handle both forms equally well. Although natural sources of vitamin C provide additional benefits in the form of phytonutrients, vitamin C itself in natural or synthetic form is absorbed by our bodies almost equally. Of course, natural sources of vitamin C, such as fruits and vegetables, provide additional benefits due to their content of other nutrients and antioxidants. However, these accompanying substances, such as flavonoids, can slightly enhance its effect.

So if you prefer vitamins from natural sources for a wider range of nutrients and support substances, this is definitely a good choice. But if you reach for a synthetic supplement, your body will use it just as well.

Natural sources of vitamin C

Plants and fruits rich in natural vitamin C content play an important role in supporting the immune system and overall health. Among the most important are:

1. Rose hips (Rosa canina) – Rose hips are one of the richest natural sources of vitamin C. Rose hips support the normal function of the immune system, improve the body's defenses and are also known for their antioxidant properties that help protect cells from oxidative stress.
2. Acerola (Malpighia emarginata) – This tropical cherry contains exceptionally high amounts of vitamin C.
3. Aronia (Aronia melanocarpa) – Aronia berries, also known as black rowan, contain not only vitamin C, but also an abundance of flavonoids and other antioxidants that contribute to overall health.
4. Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) – Sea buckthorn is another exceptional source of vitamin C, its fruits also contain other antioxidants such as flavonoids. Consuming sea buckthorn contributes to the proper functioning of the immune system.
5. Camu Camu (Myrciaria dubia) – This Amazonian shrub produces fruits very high in vitamin C, making camu camu one of nature's most powerful sources of this vitamin.
6. Chinese gooseberry (Goji, Lycium barbarum) – In addition to the rich content of vitamin C, goji berries contain a number of other antioxidants and nutrients.
7. Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, grapefruits) – Classic citrus fruits are a well-known source of vitamin C.
8. Bell peppers – Surprisingly, red and green bell peppers contain high amounts of vitamin C. Bell peppers also contain carotenoids, which act as antioxidants.

Liposomal vitamin C with bioflavonoids

If you are looking for an effective form of vitamin C with additional benefits, liposomal vitamin C can be an interesting choice. The NEOBOTANICS ^TM brand uses its own special liposomal technology in its products, which enables better absorption and bioavailability of vitamin C. In addition, NEOBOTANICS ^TM vitamin products such as NEOLIPO C+D+Zn Forte or Liposomal vitamin C PLUS Zn with bioflavonoids contain a complex of vitamin C with plant extracts rich in bioflavonoids, which naturally strengthens the effects of the vitamin.

Reference:

* Carr AC, Vissers MC. Synthetic or food-derived vitamin C--are they equally bioavailable? Nutrients. 2013 Oct 28;5(11):4284-304.