Buffered forms are treated with different minerals to make them less acidic and easier on the stomach. Ascorbic forms are usually derived from corn and are synthetic. While many Americans follow the Recommended Dietary Allowances as a means of measuring sufficient intake of nutrients, Thomson said that is slowly changing. Once you find the C vitamins, chance are you'll find many of them have rose hips or bioflavonoids added to enhance the activity of the vitamin. Here are some local stores' prices for their vitamin C brands.
Some people believe that natural vitamin supplements are better than synthetic.
Dr. Harinder Garewal, chief of medical oncology with Southern Arizona VA Health Care System, said he believes the debate is hype. He said so-called natural supplements tend to be more expensive but don't differ in their ease of absorption by the body. Of course, brands and prices vary. Cecilia Parker, saleswoman for New Life Health Center's location on Speedway near Swan Road, said rose hips naturally contain vitamin C, enhancing the activity of the vitamin. Vitamin C tablets containing rose hips generally cost the same as tablets without them.