Why reading the label could lead to better healthspan choices.
You’re hitting the gym or pounding the pavement at least five days a week. You’re all about organic fruits, veggies, lean protein, and healthy fats. And you’re taking a multivitamin every day because you know you don’t always eat as well as you should… because life happens.
All of your bases are covered, right? Well, that depends. What’s in your multivitamin? Go ahead and look at the label. Is the ingredient list mostly synthetic nutrients, chemicals, artificial dyes and fillers? You’ve gone the extra mile to clean, organic foods, so why wouldn’t you do the same thing with your supplements? Here’s why it’s just as important and how it makes a difference in the long run.
What’s the problem with synthetic supplements?
There’s no question that most of your nutrition should come from eating a variety of clean, whole foods every day. But with our depleted soils and busy, on-the-go lifestyles, getting all the nutrition you need from your diet alone is virtually impossible.
And that’s where supplements can be a huge benefit. But they’re not all created the same. From initial organic multivitamins for babies to long-term, specialized organic formulas for men, women and seniors, the savvy shopper might want to seek out organic supplements, as they can often be far superior to synthetic in many ways.
For example, synthetic supplements usually contain fillers like silicon dioxide, titanium dioxide, magnesium stearate and corn maltodextrin. Did you know that these compounds don’t occur in nature? While they’re probably fine in small amounts, long term exposure over time could be harmful to your health.
On the other hand, organic supplements are made from certified organic ingredients. That means they’re free of the unnatural substances that can build up in your tissues and lead to health issues over time.
On top of that, synthetic supplements are made in a lab. They are manufactured to be similar to nutrients found in nature, but they’re not identical. Your body knows the difference between synthetic ingredients and nutrients that come from whole foods, herbs, fungi and other natural compounds.
5 reasons why organic supplements are often better
Not only do organic supplements come from real, whole foods and natural compounds, but they’re also made using methods like freeze-drying or extraction in a liquid form to retain the full spectrum of nutrients.
Here’s a closer look at why organic supplements are better in the long run.
Organic supplements contain more nutrients
Multiple studies prove that organic crops contain more nutrients and antioxidants than conventionally grown crops. Since organic supplements are made from organic foods, it stands to reason that they would also be more nutritious.
Organic supplements are free of harmful chemicals
We are exposed to harmful toxins in the air, the foods we eat, and the products we use every single day. Any small step we can take to reduce toxic overload could improve longevity by reducing the risk of cancer and endocrine-related health issues.
Organic supplements taste better
If synthetic vitamins make you gag or upset your stomach, you’ll be happy to know that organic formulas often taste much better. They’re also easier on the digestive system.
Organic supplements are easier to absorb
The body absorbs them more efficiently, too, so you can meet your needs with much less of the natural nutrient than you would need of the synthetic.
Organic supplements are better for the environment
Organic farmers focus on sustainable farming methods that build healthy ecosystems. They also use half the energy that conventional farmers do. In other words, choosing organic supplements reduces your carbon footprint, preserving the planet for future generations.
The takeaway
Organic supplements are a great way to support a healthy lifestyle. They provide the nutritional benefits of the whole food, rather than just the isolated nutrients found in synthetic supplements. And they’re free of harmful toxins that can build up in your system and lead to disease over time. Going organic is a smart choice for you and the planet.
Image credit: Angel Sinigersky / Unsplash
The information included in this article is for informational purposes only. The purpose of this webpage is to promote broad consumer understanding and knowledge of various health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
