IN CONVERSATION WITH DENIKA PETZER
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Millions of people around the world take vitamin and mineral supplements daily to support their health and address potential nutritional deficiencies. However, growing attention is being paid not only to the nutrients contained in supplements but also to the form in which those nutrients are delivered and how effectively the body can absorb and utilise them.
Health and nutrition experts note that nutrients consumed through whole foods are naturally accompanied by a range of compounds such as enzymes, fibre, phytonutrients, proteins and co-factors. These components work together to assist the body’s absorption and use of vitamins and minerals. For example, bioflavonoids found in citrus fruits are believed to support the uptake and effectiveness of Vitamin C.
By contrast, many conventional supplements contain isolated nutrients that are often synthetically produced. While these supplements may provide the intended vitamins and minerals, some research suggests that isolated nutrients may not always be absorbed or utilised as efficiently as those delivered within a natural food matrix. As a result, a portion of certain synthetic vitamins and minerals may pass through the body without being fully used.
Health and nutrition experts note that nutrients consumed through whole foods are naturally accompanied by a range of compounds such as enzymes, fibre, phytonutrients, proteins and co-factors. These components work together to assist the body’s absorption and use of vitamins and minerals. For example, bioflavonoids found in citrus fruits are believed to support the uptake and effectiveness of Vitamin C.
By contrast, many conventional supplements contain isolated nutrients that are often synthetically produced. While these supplements may provide the intended vitamins and minerals, some research suggests that isolated nutrients may not always be absorbed or utilised as efficiently as those delivered within a natural food matrix. As a result, a portion of certain synthetic vitamins and minerals may pass through the body without being fully used.
