Liposomal supplements have increased in number in recent years and become very popular. Here we explain what the word liposomal means, what advantages and disadvantages exist, who it might be beneficial for, and what you should consider when choosing a liposomal supplement.
A lipo-what??
Liposomes are microscopic fat particles consisting of special molecules called phospholipids. Phospholipids resemble the membrane that surrounds every cell in the body and either allows or prevents the absorption of a substance into the cell. Many years ago, researchers discovered that these liposomes could be filled with vitamins or medicine to more easily deliver the substance to the body's cells. Liposome technology protects these vitamins from degradation and delivers the nutrients directly into the cells. There are many scientific studies showing the benefits of liposomal vitamins; such as improved absorption, reduced digestive discomfort, and higher concentration of the nutrient in the bloodstream and inside cells.
What are the advantages of liposomal supplements?
The advantages of liposomal supplements are many according to researchers and manufacturers who work with them. Here are the most important ones:
High bioavailability and absorption; meaning a larger portion of the nutrients in the supplement is delivered to and can be used by the body's cells.
Protects nutrients against the harsh environment in the gastrointestinal tract.
Liposomes are effective for delivering both water-soluble and fat-soluble nutrients, e.g. vitamin C (water-soluble) and vitamin D (fat-soluble).
Liposomes in liquid form are beneficial for those who have difficulty swallowing capsules.
They provide the same effect at a lower dose compared to traditional supplements.
Are there any disadvantages to liposomal supplements?
It's not all sunshine and rainbows – there are some disadvantages to liposomal supplements as well. These are:
Higher costs, as manufacturing liposomes is expensive and therefore these supplements cost more.
The manufacturing process is difficult and not all supplements are created in the same way. Therefore, quality, stability, and particle size can vary among manufacturers and affect efficacy. For this reason, we at Glimja are very meticulous in our selection of manufacturers and sell only the most effective and purest supplements we can find.
Hand on heart, the liquid liposomes don't taste particularly good. This can be a challenge if you're sensitive to taste. In such cases, a solution could be a liposomal supplement in capsule form, which has also started to appear from manufacturers such as Holistic and Dr. Mercola.
Which nutrients are especially good to take in liposomal form?
Technically, liposomes can be used to deliver almost any nutrient. However, certain substances have become particularly popular to take in this form. This is either because larger doses of a specific nutrient can be beneficial or because the nutrient is difficult to get into the bloodstream or cells through other methods. The most common liposomal supplements are:
Vitamin C:
One of the first liposomal supplements that came to market and one of the most popular. It can be excellent for those who want to consume large doses of vitamin C. The advantage of liposomal vitamin C is that you get higher absorption and lower risk of laxative effects compared to, for example, pure ascorbic acid.
Vitamin D:
The absorption of vitamin D can vary from person to person with traditional supplements. If you want to ensure good absorption or have a significant need to replenish your body's stores, liposomal vitamin D can be a solution.
Glutathione:
One of the body's most important antioxidants, but difficult to take as a supplement because it is not easily absorbed through digestion. With liposomal glutathione, you can overcome this problem and the body can get extra of this substance when needed.
Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA):
Another essential antioxidant that can be difficult to consume effectively via traditional supplements. In liposomal form, ALA is delivered directly to the body's cells.
Curcumin:
Curcumin is an extract of turmeric that has become increasingly popular as knowledge about this herb's effects has grown. Liposomal Curcumin is a highly concentrated and direct way to get this substance into the cells.
Coenzyme Q10:
Our need for the fat-soluble antioxidant and co-enzyme Q10 increases as we age. Liposomal Q10 guarantees absorption of this important nutrient.
Vitamin B12:
If you have a B12 deficiency, you might need an extra effective supplement in slightly larger doses for a period to reach normal levels. B12 is also a substance that varies in absorption between different individuals. In this case, Liposomal B12 can be a good solution to ensure absorption.
Who are liposomal supplements good for?
A liposomal supplement is worth considering if you:
Know that you have low nutrient levels or extra need for a specific substance.
Have difficulty swallowing capsules or pills.
For some reason have low nutrient absorption (e.g., due to digestive problems or burnout).
There are also specific occasions when a liposomal supplement can be beneficial. For example, during cold season you might want to take a megadose of vitamin C.
What should I consider when choosing a liposomal supplement?
The first thing you should consider is whether you need a specific nutrient in liposomal form. It is a bit more expensive and in some cases a bit more inconvenient to take if you use them in liquid form because they need to be stored in the refrigerator once you've opened the bottle. But as we mentioned, they are usually very effective. Therefore, we recommend liposomal supplements for special occasions, when you need extra amounts or particularly rapid absorption of a certain substance, and traditional supplements for your other needs. As mentioned above, quality is also important when it comes to liposomal supplements – just as with all other supplements. So buy a brand you trust from a store you feel confidence in – e.g. Glimja! ;). Feel free to ask our nutrition experts if you're wondering which supplement might be right for you!
