Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is an essential vitamin involved in numerous biological functions.
Ascorbic acid is a potent antioxidant. The vitamin works synergistically with similar compounds, such as Vitamin A and selenium, to fight oxidative stress caused by the accumulation of free radicals in the body cells.
Vitamin C also plays a pivotal role in the maintenance of bones, cartilage, and blood vessels.
However, despite its significance for healthy growth and development, one major concern with vitamin C is its rather slow absorption rate. While most of the vitamins are absorbed in the ileum, the absorption rate decreases considerably with an increase in intraluminal concentration.
Fortunately, ascorbic acid is now available in a form that readily enters the bloodstream, known as liposomal vitamin C.
Here’s everything you need to know about liposomal vitamin C, including what it is and its outstanding benefits.
Introducing Liposomal Vitamin C
Liposomal vitamin C is a type of ascorbic acid that absorbs faster into the bloodstream than regular vitamin C.
The best way to understand liposomal vitamin C is to take a step back and familiarize yourself with the term “liposomes.”
Liposomes are nano-sized bubbles that mimic the body’s natural cell membranes.
Based on that definition, you realize that liposomal vitamin C doesn’t just absorb faster into the bloodstream. It’s also more readily utilized by our cells compared to traditional forms of ascorbic acid.
Benefits of Liposomal Vitamin C
1. Faster Absorption Rate
Difference in absorption rate constitutes the primary distinction between regular and liposomal vitamin C.
Traditional ascorbic acid has two major limitations that affect its absorption rate, both of which are effectively cured by liposomal vitamin C.
First, the body breaks down standard vitamin C and destroys a significant percentage of it in the gut or intestine. But here’s where the situation gets complicated. The portion of ascorbic acid that gets past the gut and reaches the cells is unable to penetrate the cells. That’s because the vitamin is water-soluble, which makes it incompatible with the fatty cell membranes.
For ascorbic acid to get to the cells, it must be packaged in a fat-friendly form. And that’s where liposomal vitamin C comes in.
Remember that liposomes are tiny bubbles that mimic the appearance of natural cell membranes. The presence of these bubbles around liposomal ascorbic acid is the reason the vitamin penetrates the fatty cell membrane so easily.
2. Higher Bioavailability
Bioavailability refers to the percentage of a bioactive compound that gets to the bloodstream, relative to the total amount of the substance consumed.
The term is often used interchangeably with “absorption rate.” However, a compound may have a faster absorption rate due to certain metabolic factors, but other physiological processes could reduce its bioavailability.
Fortunately, liposomal vitamin C has a high bioavailability besides its remarkably fast absorption rate.
Some studies have shown that a paltry 13 – 30% of regular ascorbic acid enters the bloodstream. Comparatively, liposomal vitamin C is 5 – 10 times more bioavailable than traditional vitamin C supplements.
3. More Cost-Effective
Liposomal vitamin C is widely available in supplements. That means each product comes with a cost attached.
Many frugal spenders would probably choose natural ascorbic acid sources rather than part with a few extra dollars in liposomal vitamin C.
However, investing in the latter may prove more cost-effective in the long run.
The fact that liposomal vitamin C absorbs faster into the bloodstream implies that you can achieve optimal effects with smaller doses compared to traditional vitamin C.
4. Immense Health Benefits
Liposomal vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant. The vitamin can support the immune system by preventing oxidative damage to body cells. It also boosts immunity by producing antibodies as well as aiding the multiplication and optimal functioning of white blood cells.
Liposomal ascorbic acid may also fend off various acute illnesses. The supplement is particularly effective against viral infections like the common cold.
Beauty enthusiasts have a reason to incorporate liposomal vitamin C supplements into their routines too. Vitamin C is involved in the synthesis of collagen, a protein that enhances skin elasticity and combats signs of premature aging.
Other noteworthy health benefits of liposomal vitamin C include;
- Supporting eye health by decelerating the progression of macular degeneration
- Preventing arteriosclerosis by inhibiting LDL-protein oxidation
- Aiding the production of essential neurotransmitters, including mood-enhancing chemicals like dopamine and serotonin
5. Better Option for Managing Vitamin C Deficiency
Ascorbic acid is one of the most abundant vitamins. However, deficiencies aren’t unheard of.
Common symptoms of vitamin C deficiency include fatigue and depression. Depending on the severity, you may also develop connective tissue defects, such as gingivitis, slow wound healing, internal hemorrhage, skin rash, and petechiae.
Consuming the recommended daily serving of ascorbic acid can help to keep vitamin C deficiency at bay.
But if the condition has already occurred, the faster-absorbing liposomal vitamin C can help manage it more effectively.
Final Word
Liposomal vitamin C is typically available as dietary supplements. That calls for due diligence while searching for these products.
Carefully analyze the ingredients used in a liposomal vitamin C supplement and vouch for their safety before purchasing the product. The thumb rule insists on products formulated with fewer additives, such as artificial colorings and fillers.
It’s also prudent to research a brand’s reputation thoroughly before purchasing its liposomal vitamin C supplements. Prioritize companies that maintain transparency across every aspect, including how they source their raw materials and whether their products have science-backed benefits.
