Garden of Healing® Supplement Advisor: Time-Release Vitamins
QUESTION:
Dear Garden of Healing® Supplement Advisor:
What are time-release vitamins and how do they work? Are they better than regular vitamins?
ANSWER:
There's really no evidence to suggest that time-release vitamins are better than your usual multi-vitamin, multi-mineral.
Of course, getting nutrients from food is always the best way to stay healthy. Some professionals believe that if you're eating a balanced diet that includes whole grains, fresh fruits and veggies, and healthy sources of proteins, there's no reason to take vitamins at all.
If you take sufficient vitamins and minerals "time release" is not necessary.
Think of it this way; just do multiple dosing throughout the day yourself. This will save you money as time-released supplements are generally more expensive.
Some people "pulse" vitamin C throughout the week; do the same with your multi during the day.
Time-release is mostly a gimmick. Manufacturers want to differentiate their products from competitors by inferring special features that will make you more likely to purchase.
In the case of vitamins E and C; these may be more potent in their natural forms, but the difference is not significant. Some supplements, like folic acid, are actually better absorbed in their synthetic form.
© 1996-2009 Mark Isaac Thyss/Garden of Healing®. All Rights Reserved.
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