You see the word ‘natural’ everywhere these days. On packaging, in adverts and on websites. It sounds good, but what does it actually mean?
At Morgen is Nu, we don’t use it as an empty marketing term. It guides everything we do. We choose products that are as natural as possible because we believe they are better suited to our bodies and the planet. At the same time, we know that natural does not automatically mean better. That is why we make each decision based on careful consideration.
In this blog, we explain what we mean by ‘natural where possible’, when a less natural option may be the better choice, and why we believe in taking this nuanced approach.
What do we mean by as natural as possible?
For us, ‘natural’ isn’t black and white. It isn’t a rule to follow strictly, but a direction that helps us weigh up what is best each time. For your body and for the world we live in.
That is why we deliberately choose ingredients that come from nature wherever possible. We avoid artificial fragrances, colours and flavourings. We favour plant-based alternatives over synthetic additives. And we look closely at how a product is processed: the less processing, the better.
But we are honest about the trade-offs too. Sometimes, an entirely natural choice is not the most effective. A substance from nature may, for example, be less readily absorbed or have a short shelf life without added ingredients. In those cases, we choose an option that is effective and safe. One that supports your health.
‘Natural where possible’ means exactly that to us: natural wherever we can, but never at the expense of effectiveness or safety.
What is the difference between natural and synthetic supplements?
Natural supplements are derived from whole foods and undergo a careful extraction process. The active compounds are concentrated and dried. This is often done using water or alcohol, so the natural structure is preserved. This also keeps supporting compounds intact, such as enzymes, coenzymes, antioxidants and minerals.
Synthetic supplements take a different route. They start with industrial raw materials, often derived from petroleum or tar. In a laboratory, these substances are converted through fermentation, heating and other chemical processes into a form that resembles a vitamin but does not come from food.
There are structural differences between natural and synthetic forms too. Natural vitamin E, for example, has just one isomer, while the synthetic form consists of eight different isomers. An isomer is a molecule with the same molecular formula as another molecule, but a different structural formula. This means the atoms are bonded together in different ways, so the molecules can have different properties.
This can, of course, affect absorption in the body.
What are the benefits of natural supplements?
Natural supplements often remain closer to their original, unprocessed form. This has important benefits. Your body recognises these substances more easily, which often leads to better absorption.
Vitamin E is another good example. The natural form, known as RRR-alpha-tocopherol, has been shown to be better absorbed than the synthetic form, all-rac-alpha-tocopherol. So the source and form of a vitamin really do affect how it works. [source]
Natural supplements also usually contain more than just the main vitamin. They contain other substances that occur alongside it in nature. Take vitamin C from rosehip powder, for example. It contains ascorbic acid as well as bioflavonoids. Together, these substances enhance each other’s effects and create a natural balance.
Why it isn’t so black and white
Although we aim to choose the most natural form at Morgen is Nu, we know that ‘natural’ is not automatically the best choice. Some nutrients are naturally unstable, oxidise quickly or are poorly absorbed in their original form. In those cases, a standardised or slightly processed form can help make a supplement effective. Sometimes, it is even needed to keep it safe or make it easier to absorb.
Vitamin B12 is a good example. The active form that your body can use directly, methylcobalamin, occurs in food only in very small amounts. That is why we often choose a stable, bioavailable form for supplements that is well absorbed and safe.
Nature remains our starting point. But we also believe in scientific knowledge and honesty. Health always comes first. Sometimes that calls for a slightly more technical solution that gives the best result .
A considered approach to ‘natural’
At Morgen is Nu, ‘natural’ is not an empty promise but a conscious choice. We believe in the value of ingredients from nature because they are often better suited to how our bodies work. In many cases, a natural source provides the best foundation. It supports good absorption while placing less strain on the body and the planet.
At the same time, we know things are not always black and white. Sometimes a natural substance simply is not stable enough or is not absorbed well enough. In those cases, we choose a form that may be slightly less natural but does what it needs to do. We always consider what is safe, what works and what fits our approach to health.
Our choices are based not just on what sounds good, but above all on what does good. That is how we stay true to our belief: choose nature where possible, and choose well-considered solutions when they are better. Always with your wellbeing at heart.
Written by Lisanne - last updated 22/07/2025
