Is it worth paying more for supplements because you can find supplements at very cheap prices and some at two or three times more the price and on the surface of it, it can seem like that you’re paying more for a very similar thing. This is not actually true and here’s why.
The gold standard for obtaining nutrients is through natural foods. Nutrients in food are often accompanied by other essential compounds and macronutrients that aid absorption. When we opt for synthetic forms in supplements, it can be harder for the body to absorb these nutrients. Natural is typically better. That being said, let’s explore why spending more on supplements can make a difference.
More Expensive = More Natural
Cheaper supplements often use synthetic forms of nutrients. For example, inexpensive vitamin C supplements may contain only ascorbic acid, which is just a part of vitamin C. Opting for a more natural source, such as a supplement derived from dried lemon peel, provides a more comprehensive and absorbable form. Natural sources are superior as they contain the nutrient alongside other compounds that enhance absorption
More Expensive = Less Processed
Cheaper supplements may undergo extensive processing, including heating. Processing and heat can degrade the quality of the nutrients. Just like the difference between raw and cooked foods, raw foods often offer more nutrition as cooking can degrade nutrients. The more expensive options tend to be less processed and maintain higher nutrient integrity.
More Expensive = Less Unnecessary Additions
Some lower-cost supplements include unnecessary additives, such as sugar. Ideally, you want your supplements to contain only what you need without additional, potentially harmful ingredients. This is another reason to invest in higher-quality supplements.
Different Forms Matter
Supplements often come in various forms and choosing the right one is crucial. For example, magnesium supplements are available in multiple forms like citrate, oxide, taurate, and glycinate. Each form serves different purposes, and some are more expensive than others. It’s essential to choose the form that aligns with your specific health goals.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, don’t merely opt for the cheapest supplements. More expensive supplements are pricier for a reason—they tend to be more natural, less processed, and devoid of unnecessary additives. The key is to determine your supplementation goals and select the right form for those objectives.
Always prioritize natural sources of nutrients found in foods whenever possible. Supplements can be beneficial for providing high and consistent doses, making them useful for trials to identify deficiencies and addressing specific symptoms. However, it’s vital to choose high-quality supplements to ensure effectiveness.