When it comes to nutritional supplements, one of the most overlooked yet crucial factors is bioavailability. No matter how powerful a supplement’s ingredients are, if they aren’t absorbed efficiently, they won’t provide the intended health benefits.
In this article, we’ll explore what bioavailability means, why it’s essential for supplement effectiveness, and how cutting-edge liposomal, phytosomal, and LipiSperse® technologies improve nutrient absorption for optimal health and longevity.
What is Bioavailability?
Bioavailability refers to the proportion of a vitamin, mineral, or active compound that enters the bloodstream and becomes available for the body to use.
Even if a supplement contains high doses of an ingredient, poor absorption can lead to nutrient wastage. The higher the bioavailability, the more effectively a supplement can support metabolism, immune health, cognitive function, and longevity.
For example, berberine, a plant-based compound known for blood sugar regulation, metabolic health, and cardiovascular benefits, has low bioavailability. It is rapidly broken down by the liver and has poor absorption in the gut. Without advanced delivery technologies, only a small fraction of berberine reaches the bloodstream, limiting its effectiveness.
Research Insight: A study in Metabolism: Clinical and Experimental found that standard berberine supplements have low plasma levels due to rapid metabolism. However, Berberine Phytosome® formulations showed significantly higher absorption, making them a more effective option for glucose metabolism and cholesterol management.
Why Bioavailability Matters for Supplements
The bioavailability of a supplement directly impacts its effectiveness and cost-efficiency. If a supplement has low absorption, consumers may need to take higher doses to experience the benefits, leading to increased costs and potential digestive discomfort.
Certain nutrients are particularly challenging to absorb, including:
· Polyphenols and flavonoids – Compounds like curcumin, resveratrol, and quercetin have poor water solubility, limiting their absorption in the gut.
· Berberine and other alkaloids – These compounds are quickly metabolised, reducing their availability in the bloodstream.
Fortunately, advanced supplement technologies like liposomal, phytosomal, and LipiSperse® delivery systems enhance absorption and maximise health benefits.
Research Insight: A review in Advances in Nutrition highlights that liposomes significantly improve the bioavailability of fat-soluble nutrients, allowing for better absorption and higher therapeutic effectiveness.
Advanced Delivery Technologies for Enhanced Bioavailability
To improve the absorption and efficacy of key nutrients, supplement manufacturers have developed bioavailability-enhancing technologies.
1. Liposomal Technology
Liposomal supplements are among the most effective at enhancing bioavailability. This technology encapsulates nutrients in microscopic lipid (fat) spheres, called liposomes, which protect them from stomach acid and facilitate intestinal absorption.
Benefits of Liposomal Supplements:
· Increased absorption – Ideal for nutrients such as vitamin C.
· Enhanced stability – Protects sensitive nutrients from breakdown.
· Bypasses digestive barriers – Ensures higher bioavailability and effectiveness.
Research Insight: Recent studies have demonstrated that liposomal vitamin C exhibits significantly enhanced bioavailability compared to traditional ascorbic acid supplements. For instance, a study published in Nutrition and Metabolic Insights found that liposomal vitamin C was approximately 1.77 times more bioavailable than non-liposomal vitamin C in healthy adults.
2. Phytosomal Technology
Phytosomal supplements are designed for plant-based compounds, such as curcumin, berberine, and resveratrol, which have low water solubility. This technology binds the active compounds to phospholipids, increasing their ability to cross cell membranes.
Benefits of Phytosomal Supplements:
· Boosts polyphenol absorption – Enhances the bioavailability of curcumin, quercetin, and resveratrol.
· Supports cardiovascular and metabolic health – When used with compounds such as berberine, quercetin and resveratrol.
· Phytosome® for improved blood sugar control - Extends the active half-life of compounds such as berberine, thus keeping nutrients in circulation longer.
Research Insight: Studies have demonstrated that Berbevis® Berberine Phytosome® significantly enhances the bioavailability of berberine compared to standard berberine formulations. A pharmacokinetic study involving healthy volunteers revealed that Berbevis® improved berberine's bioavailability by nearly 10 times (9.6x) compared to standard berberine extracts.
3. LipiSperse® Technology
LipiSperse® is a patented water-dispersion technology that enhances the solubility and absorption of hydrophobic (water-repelling) compounds. It prevents nutrients from clumping together, ensuring better dispersion and uptake.
Benefits of LipiSperse® Supplements:
· Optimises nutrient dispersion – Great for quercetin, resveratrol, and Nicotinamide Riboside (NR).
· Enhances absorption by up to 10x – Reduces the need for high doses.
· Supports heart, brain, and immune health – Particularly effective for antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
Research Insight: A Journal of Functional Foods study found that LipiSperse® Quercetin achieved 10x higher bioavailability than regular quercetin, significantly enhancing its anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular benefits.
Choosing High-Bioavailability Supplements
To maximise nutrient absorption and health benefits, choose supplements that feature bioavailability-enhancing technologies. Here are some key buying tips:
· Check for delivery systems – Look for liposomal, phytosomal, or LipiSperse® formulations.
· Avoid standard formulations – Some nutrients, like berberine and resveratrol, require enhanced absorption methods.
· Look for clinical studies – Opt for scientifically backed absorption technologies.
Final Thoughts: Why Bioavailability is Key for Supplement Effectiveness
Bioavailability plays a crucial role in how well your body absorbs and utilises nutrients. Without proper absorption, even the best-formulated supplements may fail to deliver real health benefits.
Liposomal, phytosomal, and LipiSperse® technologies are revolutionising the supplement industry by enhancing nutrient uptake, improving efficiency, and ensuring maximum effectiveness.
By choosing high-bioavailability supplements, you can support longevity, metabolic function, cognitive health, and overall well-being more effectively.
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