Organic vitamins
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Organic Vitamins: A Comprehensive Overview
Introduction to Organic Vitamins
Vitamins are essential organic micronutrients required in small quantities for various metabolic processes and overall health. They are categorized into fat-soluble (A, D, E, K) and water-soluble (C and B-group) vitamins6. The interest in organic vitamins, derived from organically grown plants and animals, has been increasing due to their perceived health benefits and absence of synthetic additives.
B-Vitamins in Organic Agriculture
Enrichment with Organic Fertilizers
Research indicates that plants grown with organic fertilizers often have higher concentrations of B-vitamins, particularly B1 (thiamin) and B12 (cyanocobalamin), compared to those grown with inorganic fertilizers. This is attributed to the ability of plant roots to absorb these vitamins from organic fertilizers, which are rich in various vitamins1. For instance, the addition of cow dung significantly increased the B12 content in barley kernels and spinach leaves, which could be beneficial for individuals on vegetarian diets who are at risk of B12 deficiency1.
Vitamin C in Organic Fruits and Vegetables
Comparative Analysis of Vitamin C Content
The content of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) in organic versus non-organic fruits and vegetables varies. Some studies show that organic oranges have higher vitamin C levels compared to their conventional counterparts, while other fruits like kiwis, lemons, and strawberries have lower levels in their organic forms2. Another study found that inorganic plants, such as carrots and yardlong beans, had slightly higher vitamin C and folate contents than their organic counterparts, although the differences were not significant for most plants3.
Meta-Analysis Findings
A meta-analysis revealed that organic produce generally has a 6% higher vitamin C content compared to conventional produce. This increase in biologically active compounds could potentially enhance health outcomes, such as reducing the risk of chronic diseases5.
Vitamin E and A in Organic Dairy Production
Health and Nutritional Status of Dairy Cows
In organic dairy farming, synthetic vitamin supplementation is often avoided. Studies have shown that dairy cows can maintain adequate levels of vitamins A and E without synthetic supplements, provided their diet includes sufficient natural sources like grass and legume silages. However, during periods of high demand, such as around calving, supplementation may be necessary to prevent health issues like mastitis4 9.
Conclusion
The research on organic vitamins highlights the potential benefits of organic farming practices in enhancing the vitamin content of plant and animal products. While organic fertilizers can enrich B-vitamins in plants, the vitamin C content in organic fruits and vegetables can vary. Organic dairy cows can generally meet their vitamin A and E requirements through natural diets, although supplementation may be needed during critical periods. Overall, the consumption of organic produce may offer slight nutritional advantages, contributing to better health outcomes.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
Enrichment of some B-vitamins in plants with application of organic fertilizers
Organic fertilizers, such as cow dung, can significantly increase the B12 content in plants, potentially benefiting people on strict vegetarian diets.
Literature ReviewVitamin C in Fruits: Does Organic Make a Difference?
Organic fruits may have more vitamin C than non-organic ones, but the results vary widely among different fruits, with oranges showing more vitamin C than grapefruit and kiwis, lemons, and strawberries having less.
Vitamin C, folate, and phytochemical compounds of organically versus inorganically grown fruits and vegetables commonly consumed in Thailand
Organically grown fruits and vegetables are good sources of vitamins and phytochemicals, with Chinese kale being particularly high in vitamin C, folate, carotenoid, and flavonoids.
Status of vitamins E and A and β-carotene and health in organic dairy cows fed a diet without synthetic vitamins.
Organic dairy cows can meet their vitamin A and E requirements without synthetic vitamins, but may experience more mastitis cases in year 2.
Rigorous JournalAgroecosystem Management and Nutritional Quality of Plant Foods: The Case of Organic Fruits and Vegetables
Organically produced fruits and vegetables have a 12% higher content of secondary metabolites compared to conventionally produced fruits and vegetables, potentially increasing life expectancy by 17 days for women and 25 days for men.
Meta-Analysis
Highly CitedIntroductory Chapter: B-Group Vitamins
B-group vitamins are essential for human growth and development, and their deficiency can lead to anemia, rickets, and other disorders.
Vitamin C supplementation to optimize growth, health and stress resistance in aquatic animals
Vitamin C supplementation is essential for optimal growth, health, and stress resistance in aquatic animals, but more research is needed to understand its role in gene expression, cell cycle, and reproduction.
Literature ReviewHighly CitedRevisiting food-sourced vitamins for consumer diet and health needs: a perspective review, from vitamin classification, metabolic functions, absorption, utilization, to balancing nutritional requirements
Food-sourced vitamins are essential for human metabolism and health, with their bioavailability dependent on food composition and interactions, and their toxicity from supplementation is rare.
Systematic ReviewRigorous JournalRevision of Vitamin E recommendations for dairy cows in organic agriculture: a review-based approach
Organically managed dairy cows may not need Vitamin E supplementation for mid and late lactating on pasture or grass-clover-silages, but is strongly recommended for dry and peripartum cows and those fed maize silage, hay, or haylage.
Systematic ReviewMini-Review: Electrochemical Sensors Used for the Determination of Water- and Fat-Soluble Vitamins: B, D, K.
Electrochemical sensors (voltametric and amperometric) are effective for determining water- and fat-soluble vitamins B, D, and K in biological, pharmaceutical, and food-related samples.
Systematic Review