Vitamin C (ascorbate) is an essential water-soluble micronutrient that humans must obtain through diet or supplementation. Due to its water-soluble nature, the body only stores limited amounts of vitamin C, with most being excreted in the urine. As a result, regular consumption of ascorbic acid is necessary to maintain adequate levels in the body and counteract its rapid excretion. Since its first chemical synthesis in 1933, the bioavailability of synthetic versus natural, food-derived vitamin C has been a topic of interest in both animal models and human studies.
The ongoing debate over synthetic versus whole-food vitamin C can be confusing for consumers trying to decide which option is best to incorporate. Although synthetic and food-derived, or whole-food, vitamin C are chemically identical, there are three primary reasons why we chose whole-food vitamin C over synthetic.
1. Health Benefits Beyond Ascorbic Acid: Consuming vitamin C from whole foods comes with a range of other macro- and micronutrients, along with phytochemicals, which together provide additional health benefits beyond those of ascorbic acid alone. These compounds often work synergistically, enhancing the absorption and efficacy of vitamin C while contributing to overall well-being.
2. Concerns with Synthetic Sourcing: Many synthetic vitamin C supplements on the market are derived from genetically modified (GMO) corn, which raises concerns for some consumers. Additionally, these supplements are often highly contaminated with glyphosate, a widely used herbicide that has been linked to health risks, including cancer.
3. Risks of Overconsumption: Synthetic vitamin C supplements often contain excessively high doses per serving, leading to potential overconsumption. High doses of vitamin C have been associated with increased oxalate levels in the urine, which can raise concerns about the formation of urinary stones, especially in susceptible individuals. Moreover, studies have shown that when single doses exceed 500 mg, the bioavailability of vitamin C decreases, and the excess is simply excreted in the urine, offering no additional benefit.
Given the essential role of vitamin C and the necessity for regular intake, the form in which it is consumed—synthetic or food-derived—becomes an important consideration.
FRTIL Vitamin C is sourced from organic acerola not only because it has an exceptionally high ascorbic acid content but also contains a wealth of other phytonutrients such as phenolics, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and carotenoids. Additionally, acerola is rich in pro-vitamin A, vitamins B1 and B2, niacin, albumin, iron, phosphorus, and calcium.
This understanding highlights the importance of not just focusing on the ascorbic acid content but considering the broader nutritional profile and potential risks associated with different sources of vitamin C.