Liposomal Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an essential vitamin that your body needs to thrive, and studies show that increasing levels of the nutrient with supplements could provide health benefits. The type of vitamin C you take matters if you wish to reap these potential benefits. Many experts recommend liposomal vitamin C over standard supplements. Read on to find out why.

What Is Liposomal Vitamin C?

Liposomal vitamin C contains ascorbic acid; the nutrient referred to as vitamin C. The term liposomal refers to the fact that the nutrient is placed inside of a lipid bilayer casing called a liposome.

Lipids are a type of fatty acid. Every cell in your body has a membrane of lipids surrounding it. The lipid membrane holds everything inside the cell and allows substances to enter and exit the cell.

When liposomal vitamin C encounters body cells, the liposome helps the ascorbic acid move through the cellular membrane, so it can reach the insides of cells and be put to use.

Liposomal Vitamin C vs Vitamin C

Standard vitamin C supplements lack the liposome that surrounds liposomal vitamin C. On its own, ascorbic acid is water-soluble, so when it reaches the cellular lipid membrane, it has difficulty penetrating it. By contrast, liposomal vitamin C can move more readily into the cells. The liposomes increase vitamin C absorption and improve bioavailability, making it easier for your body to utilize the vitamin. Because of this, liposomal vitamin C supplements are usually a more potent vitamin C option than standard ascorbic acid. The liposomal product will likely be more effective if you compare two vitamin C supplements with the same dose of ascorbic acid per serving.

Benefits of Liposomal Vitamin C

Liposomal vitamin C offers the same health benefits as standard ascorbic acid supplements. These include:

• Antioxidant protection: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant, a nutrient that can eliminate free radicals by breaking them down into harmless substances. Free radicals are present in ultraviolet radiation from the sun and in environmental pollutants. They are highly reactive and capable of damaging body cells, causing oxidative stress that drives the aging process and contributes to some diseases and chronic conditions. Vitamin C has been shown to reduce oxidative stress and protect the body.
• Immune support: People often take vitamin C to boost immunity because the body requires the nutrient for immune health. Studies have found that vitamin C may reduce the severity and duration of illnesses like the common cold.
• Heart health benefits: Vitamin C plays a role in heart health. Research shows that the nutrient disrupts the process that causes atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries. By doing so, vitamin C may reduce the risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.
• Improved skin elasticity: Vitamin C helps drive collagen production, a structural protein that supports the skin. By helping to stimulate collagen production, vitamin C may enhance skin elasticity and promote firmer, more youthful-looking skin. Collagen is also a vital component of the tendons, muscles, bones, and cartilage that insulates the joints.
• Better mood regulation: Chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters are responsible for regulating your mood. Vitamin C is necessary to manufacture two essential neurotransmitters: dopamine and norepinephrine. Suppose you wish to take vitamin C for potential mood-boosting benefits. Liposomal vitamin C is ideal because it may cross the blood-brain barrier much more readily than standard vitamin C.

How To Choose a Liposomal Vitamin C Supplement

To select the right liposomal vitamin C supplement for you, follow these tips:

1. Talk to your health care provider: Before taking any new supplement, you should always discuss the matter with your doctor. Although vitamin C is generally safe for most people, it isn't ideal for everyone. Some people may experience digestive symptoms from taking high doses of vitamin C, and individuals with certain health conditions may not be able to take it safely. Your medical provider can give you personalized advice about taking vitamin C.
2. Check the dosage: The amount of vitamin C per serving varies from product to product.
3. Look for hidden ingredients: Choose a supplement free of additives like artificial colors, preservatives, and flavors. Non-GMO products are free of genetically modified ingredients (GMOs). Many avoid GMOs because scientists haven't thoroughly studied their potential long-term health effects.