When you're feeling under the weather, everything suffers. You may miss work or school, fall behind on your to-do lists, and even lose your social connections as you hunker down at home and fight off your illness. There's a way to give your body the support it needs to bounce back and get back on track faster: vitamin C. This powerhouse nutrient plays an essential role in immune health, and research shows that getting more vitamin C may help reduce the duration and severity of respiratory infections, including colds and flu. Some may have better options than the traditional vitamin C supplementation approach. Liposomal vitamin C is a superior alternative that may offer even more immune-boosting benefits. So, what is liposomal vitamin C? Our article will help you answer this question as we break down the liposomal benefits and how to select the right supplement to enhance your health and wellness.
Once you understand liposomal vitamin C, you’ll see why Eya Vitamins's premium liposomal vitamin C supplements can help you achieve your health objectives.
What is Liposomal Vitamin C?
Liposomal vitamin C substitutes traditional vitamin C tablets (ascorbic acid). Instead of delivering vitamin C in a typical tablet, pill, or powder form, this type delivers the vitamin inside tiny fat droplets. The goal of taking liposomal vitamin C is to raise levels more effectively compared to other standard supplements. Even after someone takes concentrated amounts of vitamin C in supplement form, plasma (blood) vitamin C levels usually stay relatively low because only a fraction is absorbed.
What Does Liposomal Mean?
Liposomal refers to a drug or supplement preparation containing the active drug inside microscopic fat-like particles (phospholipid bilayers). This form is easier for the body to absorb and allows for more of the supplement or drug to get to specific cells or areas of the body. Another term used to describe this type of vitamin C is "lypo-spheric vitamin C."
What's All the Hype About Liposomal Vitamin C?
Liposomal delivery is a newer nutrient-delivery system amongst other forms of liquid vitamins that offer superior bioavailability and better absorption than traditional vitamin C supplements. Lipids are a wide range of molecules that include triglycerides, fatty acids, and cholesterol. They cannot be absorbed in water, so they play a role in supporting the function and structure of cellular membranes.
How Liposomes Enhance Nutrient Absorption in Supplement
Liposomes are tiny, fat-soluble vesicles made from lipids. They are used in liposomal supplement delivery to encapsulate and deliver active ingredients. Since the gastrointestinal tract presents harsh and acidic conditions, liposomal delivery protects nutrients better than traditional methods, improving their absorption.
One study specifically looking at liposomal C found higher concentrations of the vitamin in the body compared to a non-liposomal vitamin C. It was suggested that liposomal delivery increased intracellular delivery and provided higher bioavailability.
Choosing Quality Liposomal Vitamin C Products for Optimal Benefits
Beyond potential boosted absorption, liposomal C doesn’t have any other unique benefits over other forms. Perhaps you must choose a high-quality brand that uses safe and natural sweeteners and preservatives in liposomal C products.
All liquid vitamins naturally grow bacteria, so preservatives are necessary. The quality of these preservatives and sweeteners matters; some companies use artificial sweeteners and other potentially harmful additives and fillers, which you always want to avoid.
Does it Work?
Is liposomal vitamin C better? Some experts believe that, yes, it is. Standard vitamin C (ascorbic acid) offers several benefits to the human body, which may be magnified when taking liposomal C.
Bioavailability: Why is it Important?
The best-understood advantage is that liposomal vitamin C has a much higher bioavailability than standard vitamin C. Bioavailability simply means how well vitamin C absorbs into your system. As mentioned, liposomal vitamin C supplements allow your small intestine to absorb more nutrients than standard vitamin C supplements.
A 2016 study in 11 human subjects found that vitamin C encapsulated in liposomes increased vitamin C levels in the blood compared to an unencapsulated (non-liposomal) supplement at the same dose (4 grams). Liposomal vitamin C’s bioavailability is only outstripped by intravenous (IV) vitamin C. IV vitamin C has 100% bioavailability by definition but is much more invasive, requiring needle insertion, a specially trained facility, and 1-3 hours for the slow infusion. High doses of IV vitamin C are used most frequently in conjunction with cancer treatment and provide a pro-oxidant effect achievable ONLY with very high IV doses of vitamin C. The pro-oxidant effect of high-dose IV vitamin C differs from that of low doses of vitamin C, which provides anti-oxidant activity.
Heart and Brain Health
Vitamin C intake (via diet or supplements) may decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease by about 25%, according to a 2004 analysis published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Any form of vitamin C supplement improves endothelial function and ejection fraction. Endothelial function involves the contraction and relaxation of blood vessels enzymatic release to manage blood clotting, immunity, and platelet adhesion.
Ejection fraction is "the percentage of blood that is pumped (or ejected) out of the ventricles" when the heart contracts on every beat. Together, these results suggest that vitamin C may be important in preventing cardiovascular disease and improving heart health.
Liposomal Vitamin C as a Supportive Antioxidant in Reperfusion Injury Recovery
After a stroke or heart attack, it’s important to heal the tissues damaged by the lack of oxygen. Once blood flow is restored, the reoxygenation of previously oxygen-deprived cells leads to tissue damage called "reperfusion injury" accompanied by "excessive generation of free radicals." When delivered intravenously, vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that can counteract and neutralize free radicals that cause oxidative stress from reperfusion.
In one animal study, liposomal vitamin C prevented brain tissue damage from reperfusion when administered before blood flow was restricted. Although blood levels achieved by IV-infused vitamin C are much higher than those of liposomal vitamin C, one study observed that liposomal vitamin C was nearly as effective as IV vitamin C in preventing tissue damage during reperfusion. The research was conducted in 11 subjects who had temporary obstruction of blood flow to their arms by tourniquet.
Cancer
Intravenous vitamin C can be used in high doses to fight cancer in tandem with traditional chemotherapy. It may not eradicate cancer on its own, but it can improve the quality of life, increasing energy and mood for many cancer patients. On a case-by-case basis, IV vitamin C can even induce regression of cancer.
A 2014 review recounts several reports of remission when using IV vitamin C with chemotherapy. One should not rely on IV vitamin C to induce remission or treat cancer on its own, as these cases are isolated at best. Vitamin C can be a great adjuvant (helper) to traditional cancer treatment.
Using Liposomal Vitamin C to Maintain Stable Plasma Levels Between IV Treatments
Liposomal vitamin C has not been specifically tested in human subjects with cancer. Many cancer patients receiving IV vitamin C also use liposomal vitamin C in high doses between IV treatments.
After receiving a high dose of IV vitamin C, it’s not uncommon for blood levels to drop below normal in the days after the infusion (trough levels). It’s highly recommended to increase oral intake levels of vitamin C between IV vitamin C infusions, especially to prevent low rebound through plasma levels of vitamin C.
Collagen Production: Why is it Important?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in our bodies; however, our own natural collagen production slows around the age of 25. Vitamin C is a cofactor in the enzymes that produce collagen, which is necessary for the function and health of your bones, blood vessels, and joints where collagen abounds.
When vitamin C levels run low, such as in times of stress, infection, or chronic illness (i.e., diabetes, autoimmune illness, which generates high levels of free radicals and oxidative stress), less collagen production is available. Since collagen is the structural protein that holds us together, this can manifest as weaker joints, tendons, blood vessels, and connective tissue. More superficially, weaker collagen can manifest as sagging skin with more wrinkles.
Oxidative Stress
Every living thing experiences some level of oxidative stress. As a 2006 review puts it, "There is increasing evidence connecting oxidative stress with a variety of pathological conditions, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, chronic inflammatory disease, post-ischaemic organ injury, diabetes mellitus, xenobiotic/drug toxicity, and rheumatoid arthritis." Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant and is found in generous quantities within the human body.
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What’s the Difference Between Regular Vitamin C and Liposomal Vitamin C?
Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is a crucial nutrient that supports overall health and wellness. You can find vitamin C in food, such as:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Dietary supplements
One of the most effective forms of vitamin C supplementation. Several forms of vitamin C exist, including:
- Ascorbic acid
- Calcium ascorbate
- Sodium ascorbate
- Liposomal vitamin C
Ascorbic acid is the most common form of vitamin C. While it has many benefits, it can cause digestive upset when taken in large amounts. Liposomal vitamin C is different. This special form of vitamin C is encapsulated in liposomes, tiny phospholipids sachets. These liposomes act as protective carriers that help improve vitamin C uptake and delivery to cells. Because of this, liposomal vitamin C is absorbed and utilized by the body more efficiently than regular vitamin C, making it an excellent choice for vitamin C supplementation.
The Bioavailability Battle: Who Comes Out on Top?
One of the major advantages of liposomal vitamin C is its excellent bioavailability. Bioavailability
refers to the amount of a nutrient the body can absorb and use. Traditional forms of vitamin C, such as ascorbic acid, are poorly absorbed and rapidly excreted from the body, resulting in low bioavailability.
Liposomal vitamin C has been shown to have significantly higher bioavailability, with studies suggesting that it can achieve up to 90% sorption compared to ascorbic acid's only 20% sorption. This means that liposomal vitamin C delivers high concentrations into the bloodstream, potentially increasing cellular uptake and utilization of this important nutrient.
The Stability Factor: Protecting Vitamin C from Oxidation
Another advantage of liposomal vitamin C is its ability to protect it from oxidation and degradation. Vitamin C is a delicate nutrient that easily degrades when exposed to:
- Oxygen
- Heat
- Light
Liposomal vitamin C, encapsulated in liposomes, is protected from these factors and prevents it from reaching cells. It remains stable and effective. This makes liposomal vitamin C an ideal choice for those concerned about the stability and efficacy of their vitamin C supplements.
A Powerful Antioxidant with Immune-Boosting Benefits
Besides its excellent bioavailability and stability, liposomal vitamin C has several other advantages. It is a powerful antioxidant that helps neutralize harmful free radicals and unstable molecules that damage cells and contribute to aging, inflammation, and various health conditions.
Vitamin C also plays an important role in supporting the immune system by promoting the production of white blood cells that fight disease and disease. Involved in some collagen synthesis.
Potential Anti-Cancer Properties
Liposomal vitamin C has been shown to have potential anti-cancer properties. Studies have shown that high doses of vitamin C can selectively attack cancer cells while sparing normal cells, making it a promising add-on to cancer treatment. Liposomal vitamin C liposomal delivery systems allow the safe administration of high doses of vitamin C, which may help support cancer patients.
Well-Tolerated and Safe for Most People
Liposomal vitamin C is also well tolerated and safe for most people. High doses of ascorbic acid can cause gastrointestinal upset and diarrhea in some people, whereas liposomal vitamin C bypasses the digestive system. Reduces the risk of digestive problems. It is always recommended to consult your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
Many health-conscious individuals prefer liposomal vitamin C, which is the most effective and efficient option when choosing the best form of vitamin C supplementation. Although liposomal vitamin C supplements can be slightly more expensive than traditional forms of vitamin C, increased absorption and utilization by the body can offset the cost difference.
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How to Choose a Quality Liposomal Vitamin C Supplement
Purity Matters: Look for Clean Ingredients
Liposomal vitamin C supplements vary widely in quality. As with any supplement, it’s crucial to look for a well-sourced and pure product. You want to avoid unnecessary additives, fillers, or preservatives that may detract from the formula’s effectiveness. Ascorbic acid is often used as a preserving agent in other food products and supplements, so you’re less likely to find added junk in a straight ascorbic acid vitamin C supplement.
Fillers and additives make supplement products cheaper and last longer on the shelf. Make sure to read your labels when looking for a liposomal vitamin C supplement, and check for unnecessary additives. All you need is ascorbic acid and the liposomal formula. Although more scientifically sophisticated, liposomal formulas can have a simpler ingredient list than tablet forms in quantity and quality, depending on which one you pick. In any liposomal formula, there are three key components:
- Lecithin
- Sweetener
- Vitamin itself
You’ll want to pay close attention to how each is sourced.
Lecithin: Non-GMO is Best
For now, lecithin is the easiest and most sensible product with which the liposomes are created, and it’s what you’ll find in pretty much any bottle of liposomal Vitamin C out there. You can find GMO and non-GMO versions, which do not always list that detail on the label. The easiest way to tell is if the manufacturer has chosen to use soybeans or sunflowers for their formula, two of the more common sources of lecithin. Soy is nearly exclusively a genetically modified crop.
On the rare occasion that you find organic soy, it will be labeled up the wazoo because of the miraculous rarity that is organic. The detrimental effects of soy products on our hormonal systems are well known, and regular consumption should be avoided. If the label reads “lecithin,” you can bet your dollars that it’s a soy byproduct without qualifying from what source.
Sweetener: Avoid Added Sugars
It is a warmly welcomed ingredient in any blend, making the formula more delicious and easy to swallow. But need to tell you about the pandemic of added sugars in our culture, you need more space and time in this article. The point here is to be mindful of the few dozen names that refined corn sugar can take, such as:
- Sucrose
- Fructose
- Glucose
- Dextrose
- maltose or lactose
You’ll find these as staple ingredients in chewable C tablets, especially child formulas. Examples of body-friendly alternative sources are:
- Stevia
- Xylitol
- Agave
Agave still contains fructose but about half as much as traditional sugars. Stevia, for example, is extracted from the stevia leaf, which is indigenous to South America and has been used for centuries. Studies have only shown stevia’s potential to lower blood pressure and lower your blood sugar rather than spike them like other sweeteners do. Be aware of how your blend is flavored so you’re not giving your body an extra dose of sugar it doesn’t need.
Vitamin Source: Know Your Choices.
The third key ingredient is the source of Vitamin C itself. The most notorious synthetic form would be ascorbic acid. But while this is a common and effective compound, you may want to consider otherwise, especially if you’re seeking to ingest high doses for disease management (Lyme, cancer, etc.) or immunity support.
Ascorbic acid is hard on the digestive system in large amounts and causes severe abdominal cramping and diarrhea. Sodium Ascorbate is the other, lesser-known option. It is what you’d call a “buffered” form of ascorbic acid. Processed with a bit of sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), or another simple form of sodium, it radically softens the harshness of ascorbic acid, allowing the body to happily and easily process the Vitamin C without discomfort. There will be other subtle differences in the blends you shop for, but these three are at the core of each one. If you keep them in mind while choosing your formula, you can’t go wrong, really. Good luck!
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