Supplements in practice - Natural Vs Synthetic

Question 1

Natural Vs Synthestic?

Answer 1

‘Novel’ nutrients, which our physiology has not yet evolved to recognise, are rapidly excreted as toxins:
* Natural supplements usually have better bowel tolerance than synthetic ones so they are retained longer in the body; e.g. if using vitamin C to build collagen then a natural form that stays in the body longer is best. But that doesn’t mean synthetic supplements are not useful.
* If you use ascorbic acid, the most common synthetic form of vitamin C, it will be rapidly excreted from the body but will take a significant amount of free radicals with it. This is ideal if detoxification is the desired outcome.
* So always consider the reason for supplementing.

Question 2

Synthetic supplements have a role

Answer 2

As naturopaths, it is preferable to opt for naturally-sourced nutrients. However, synthetic forms can have a useful role depending on the reason for supplementing.
* An example is vitamin B9; labelling laws insist that companies use folic acid or methylfolate as the product descriptor.
* Food state folate is not the same as traditional folic acid. It’s not methylfolate either as this does not occur in plants.
* Methylation only takes place in the human body or in a laboratory process —hence methylfolate, although the most bio-effective form of folate, cannot be natural or from food sources. (useful for poor methylators etc.)

Question 3

When are nutrients recommended over / alongside food?

Answer 3

When are high-quality, clean synthetic supplements (devoid of excipients and other additives), recommended?
* Food-state supplements may not be enough to supply the optimal dosage when someone has a high nutritional requirement due to: Poor dietary habits and lifestyle, environmental factors and chronic health conditions.
* Also, sensitivities to foods or fillers in food-based products, such as gluten or nightshades, can cause mild to severe reactions; isolated, synthetic nutrient products may work better for some sensitive people.

Question 4

Formulations favoured by Naturoapaths

Answer 4

Naturopaths embrace a philosophy of using formulations that have a scientific, but holistic approach to supplementation.
* We favour the use of whole, unadulterated botanicals and phytonutrient-rich foods optimally combined with vitamins, minerals, enzymes, coenzymes and amino acids.
* We try to avoid preservatives, colourants, fillers or binding agents to allow the activity of, and synergy between, vitamins, minerals, plant enzymes, phytonutrients without physiological or biochemical interference. We also avoid GMO and irradiated products.
* Trustworthy companies will also embrace these philosophies.

Question 5

Irradiation supplements:

Answer 5

• High-doses of radiant energy used to destroy pathogens.
• Destroys delicate nutrients and disrupts their natural frequencies.
• Less damaging technologies include dry steam sterilisation.

Question 6

Genetically modified organisms (GMOs):

Answer 6

• Low quality supplements are often filled with GMOs —often added to compensate for poor quality ingredients.
• Vitamins genetically engineered through GMO crops or microorganisms such as bacteria or fungi.
• May be GMO:
  o Citric acid
  o Corn syrup or corn starch
  o Maltodextrin
  o MSG (monosodium glutamate)
  o Soy lecithin
  o Xanthan gum.