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What are liposomes? -

Liposomes are small, circle-shaped artificial sacs with a fat (lipid) bilayer. Liposomes are created to deliver tiny substances to the body's cells.

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Why use liposomes? -

The lipid layer acts as a protection, encapsulating the substance. In general, the compounds contained within the liposome have low solubility.

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Why use liposomes? -

By using a liposome to transport the substance in the body, it's believed to reach the desired cell so it can be absorbed.

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"Lipos" and "soma" -

The word liposome comes from the Greek "lipos" meaning fat, and "soma" meaning body. The lipid bilayer of a liposome contains two layers of phospholipids, which are closely arranged.

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Fat-loving and water-loving -

The head and tail of these phospholipids are different. The heads are what's called "hydrophilic," i.e. they love water.

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Fat-loving and water-loving -

In contrast, the tails are fat-loving, i.e. "lipophilic." These tails are pulled together to form the lipid bilayer. The heads create a membrane, attracted by surrounding water.

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Advantages of using liposomes -

The advantages associated with taking liposomes will depend on the quality of the product. However, one of the main claims about liposomal vitamins is that they have greater bioavailability.

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Bioavailability -

The bioavailability of something tells us how effectively your body can use it. It's referring to how much of the product consumed is actually absorbed.

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Absorpion -

How a vitamin is absorbed in the body depends on the type of vitamin it is. Lipid-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) are "fat soluble." This means they are dissolved in fat.

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Absorption -

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Fat soluble vitamin absorption -

Lipid-soluble vitamins differ, as they need to attach to a protein before they can be absorbed into the bloodstream. 

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Fat soluble vitamin absorption -

However, because they're attached to proteins, the body can store them in the liver or fat cells in the body. It can then draw on them as needed, so it's easier to build up a "store" of these vitamins.

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Small intestine -

Multivitamins or traditional vitamins are a way to help build up these stores. However, it's believed a very low percentage of these are absorbed by the body. This is because depending on the coating of the tablet, the vitamin can be broken down by the stomach which means it doesn't reach the small intestine.

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Small intestine -

Vitamins with a waxy coating are harder for the stomach to dissolve. They have a better chance of reaching the small intestine where they can be absorbed.

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Where liposomes fit in -

This is where liposomes are considered superior to regular vitamins. They have special fatty acids to protect them and to be taken easily into your bloodstream. 

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Where liposomes fit in -

Some manufacturers claim liposomes have an absorption rate that is up to eight times more effective than regular vitamins.

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Improving vitamin and mineral absorption: gut health -

The health of the gut plays a vital role in the body's ability to absorb nutrients from the food eaten. Eating a balanced diet and probiotic foods can help support gut health.

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Gut health -

Steering clear of foods that leave you feeling gassy and uncomfortable, getting a good night's sleep, and avoiding habits like smoking will help to improve the health of your gut.

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Reduce stress -

Stress can also have a negative effect on the health of the gut, making it harder for the body to absorb vital nutrients. Practicing mindfulness and meditation can help.

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Reduce stress -

Regular exercise is also a great stress reliever and good for the digestive system. Low-impact exercises like pilates, yoga, and walking have a less stressful effect on the body than high-impact exercises.

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Cut down or cut out alcohol -

Drinking alcohol interferes with the body's ability to absorb nutrients. Frequent alcohol consumption can cause malnutrition.

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Cut down or cut out alcohol -

To make sure your body absorbs vital nutrients, especially if you suspect you are running low on them, consider cutting out alcohol for a while or seriously reducing your intake.

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Vitamin IV -

If you are running dangerously low on vitamins, a vitamin IV delivers vitamins and minerals directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system altogether.

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Research about liposome supplements -

Available research tells us some liposomes have better bioavailability than their non-liposomal counterparts. Vitamin C was found to be absorbed at a higher rate (1.77 times more) in liposomal form.

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Promising results -

Other vitamins and minerals that have shown promising results with liposomal delivery include iron, vitamin K2, magnesium, calcium, and zinc.

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Disadvantages of liposomes -

Liposomes do have some disadvantages, including the higher cost associated with production and their instability in certain products.

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Disadvantages of liposomes -

As they are a relatively new concept in the field of vitamin and mineral supplementation, liposomes need more research to prove claims about bioavailability.

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Conventional supplements -

It's not time to throw out conventional supplements just yet. High-quality vitamin and mineral supplements from trusted brands can help you to top up your body's vitamin and mineral stores.

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Conventional supplements -

Of course, both conventional and liposomal supplements should only be used alongside a balanced diet. Taking the measures to restore or maintain gut health will help you absorb more nutrients from food and supplements so the body can function optimally.
Sources: (Healthline) (The Conversation) (Vogue)
See also: These vitamins can be dangerous to you

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