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Vitamin E – Natural vs. Synthetic
Vitamin E is the most powerful antioxidant in the equine diet. But not all forms of the vitamin are created equally. Most supplements contain synthetic vitamin E (dl-alpha tocopherol acetate), which is not as potent as natural vitamin E (d-alpha tocopherol acetate). Compared to synthetic vitamin E, the body can more efficiently transport and deliver natural vitamin E to target tissues. Current research in several species, including horses, shows that natural vitamin E is two to three times more potent than synthetic.  Both Elevate W.S. and Elevate Maintenance Powder are natural forms of vitamin E. 

Water-Soluble Vitamin E In Elevate W.S. Is Most Effective

The vitamin E in Elevate W.S. is water soluble, which allows it to be absorbed efficiently from the gastrointestinal tract. Because of this rapid absorption, vitamin E is readily dispersed into the blood and to outlying tissues. When other forms of vitamin E are fed (e.g., oil-based or emulsified forms), the digestive system must break down the vitamin E before it can be used, thus delaying absorption.

Assessment of vitamin E status is accomplished by measuring levels in plasma. In a recent study, plasma levels of horses consuming three types of vitamin E were compared: synthetic vitamin E acetate, natural vitamin E acetate (Elevate Maintenance Powder), and natural, water-soluble vitamin E (Elevate W.S.). Dramatic increases were noted in horses fed natural, water-soluble vitamin E (Elevate W.S.). From baseline values, blood levels rose an astonishing 207% when horses were given 8,000 IU.  Blood levels of natural vit E acetate (Elevate Maintenance Powder) also incresed, but not as quickly. This study did show that plasma levels fell slightly when horses were fed synthetic vitamin E.

Biopotency of common sources of vitamin E

Why is natural vitamin E more expensive?

The need for vitamin E supplementation in horses has been proven, and many such supplements are marketed for equine consumption. When comparing these supplements, however, it is crucial that consumers have the knowledge necessary to make educated decisions about what vitamin E product will most benefit their horses. Consumers must remember that natural and synthetic vitamin E products should not be compared, as they are significantly different. Because of the superior bioavailability and the increased potency and efficacy of natural vitamin E, consumers may also expect to pay slightly more for it in the marketplace. This investment decision is made easy by choosing the natural and most biologically active forms of vitamin E on the equine market today—Elevate W.S. and Elevate Maintenance Powder.

Elevate W.S. is available through your vet in 8-oz (236-ml) bottles containing a minimum of 500 IU per ml of natural vitamin E as d-alpha-tocopherol. 

Elevate Maintencance Powder is available through your local supplement dealer in a 2-lb. jar.  Each scoop (7 g) contains 1000 IU of natural vitamin E as d-alpha-tocopheryl acetate.