Why are liposomal supplements revolutionizing supplementation?
The science behind superior bioavailability
Ayleen Martínez
Orthomolecular Nutritionist
For years, the quality of a nutritional supplement was evaluated mainly by the amount of vitamins, minerals, or bioactive compounds contained in each capsule. However, thanks to advances in biochemistry and pharmacology, we now know that there is a much more important factor: how much of that nutrient actually gets absorbed and used by the body.
This concept, known as bioavailability, has changed the way we understand modern supplementation. In simple terms, the bioavailability of a supplement corresponds to the proportion of the active ingredient that manages to reach the bloodstream and, subsequently, the cells where it will perform its function. A product may contain a high dose of a nutrient, but if a large part is degraded during digestion or eliminated before being absorbed, its impact will be significantly lower.
It is precisely this challenge that has driven the development of new formulation technologies, including liposomal technology, currently considered one of the most important innovations in the field of nutritional supplementation.
Difference between a conventional supplement and a liposomal one
When we ingest a conventional supplement, whether in capsules, tablets, or powder, the active ingredient must go through a complex journey before reaching the cells. During that process, it can be affected by stomach acid, digestive enzymes, limited intestinal absorption capacity, and hepatic metabolism. As a result, a significant portion of the nutrient can be lost before the body has the opportunity to use it.
Supplements with liposomal technology were developed precisely to address this problem. Instead of leaving the active ingredient exposed throughout the entire digestive process, it is encapsulated within tiny vesicles or spheres made of phospholipids, molecules very similar to those that make up our own cell membranes.
This structure acts as a protection and transport system, favoring the stability of the nutrient and optimizing its arrival in the body. Various scientific studies have shown that, for certain active ingredients, liposomal formulations can offer superior bioavailability compared to conventional formulations, although the degree of improvement depends on the nutrient studied and the quality of the technology used.
Rather than increasing the quantity of a nutrient, liposomal technology seeks to improve the efficiency with which the body can utilize it.
What does "superior bioavailability" really mean?
When we talk about superior bioavailability, we refer to the capacity of a formulation to deliver a greater proportion of the active ingredient to the body compared to a conventional formulation.
It does not necessarily mean that the supplement contains more vitamins or minerals, but rather that a greater amount of them manages to overcome the natural barriers of the digestive system and reach systemic circulation.
In other words, the goal is not to consume more, but to make better use of what we consume.
This difference is especially relevant for nutrients whose absorption is naturally limited or that present high sensitivity to the conditions of the digestive tract, such as vitamin C, glutathione, coenzyme Q10, some polyphenols, and other antioxidants.
What makes a liposomal supplement high quality?
Not all products labeled "liposomal" are equal. The efficacy of this technology depends on multiple factors related to the manufacturing process and the design of the formulation.
Aspects such as particle size, liposome stability, encapsulation efficiency, the quality of the phospholipids, and production controls directly influence the product's performance.
For this reason, the term "liposomal" alone does not constitute a guarantee of quality. As with any technological innovation, there are significant differences between the various platforms developed by manufacturers.
Metazome™: a new generation of liposomal technology
With the goal of offering increasingly efficient supplements, at Ortomolecular Chile, we have been progressively incorporating a new line of Metazome™ liposomal products, a patented, next-generation liposomal technology featuring dry, stable liposomes developed by Molecules Biolabs.
This technology was designed to optimize the formation and stability of liposomes, favoring the protection of the active ingredient during its transit through the digestive system.
Metazome™ represents a technological proposal based on principles widely supported by liposome research, aimed at maximizing formulation quality.
A philosophy that goes beyond bioavailability
At Ortomolecular Chile, we understand that a good supplement depends not only on how it is absorbed but also on how it is formulated.
For this reason, our new line of liposomal supplements maintains the philosophy that has characterized our brand since its inception: using high-quality ingredients and minimizing the presence of colorants, binders, excipients, and other unnecessary additives when the formulation allows.
We believe that a clean formulation, combined with advanced delivery technologies, represents a natural evolution toward more efficient supplements that are aligned with the current needs of those who seek to support their health through evidence-based nutrition.
Who can benefit from liposomal supplementation?
Liposomal supplements can be an interesting alternative for people who wish to optimize the utilization of certain nutrients, especially when they exhibit limited absorption in conventional formulations.
They can also be considered by those looking for formulations with high technological quality, athletes, older adults, individuals with higher nutritional requirements, or those who prefer products developed under a philosophy of clean formulation and superior bioavailability.
As with any supplement, their use should be part of an integral approach to diet and lifestyle, and in specific cases, it is advisable to seek guidance from a healthcare professional.
The future of supplementation
Nutritional supplementation has evolved from a focus centered exclusively on nutrient quantity to one that emphasizes bioavailability and utilization by the body.
Liposomal technology represents one of the most promising advances in this field by offering a strategy aimed at protecting active ingredients and favoring their absorption. Although not all nutrients require this type of formulation and not all liposomal technologies are equivalent, the available scientific evidence supports their potential to improve the delivery of certain bioactive compounds.
With the incorporation of Metazome™ technology, Ortomolecular Chile begins a new stage aimed at offering supplements with superior bioavailability, clean formulations, and high-quality raw materials. Our commitment remains the same: to bring the best scientific evidence to those who seek to look after their health through responsible, innovative, and excellent supplementation.
Getting to know our line of liposomal supplements
The application of advanced technologies like Metazome™ gains real value when combined with ingredients whose absorption is a determining factor for their efficacy. Therefore, at Ortomolecular Chile, we have developed a line of patented Metazome™ liposomal supplements, carefully selecting nutrients that have solid scientific backing and whose utilization by the body can benefit from a high-bioavailability formulation.
Each product has been designed under our clean formulation philosophy, using high-quality raw materials and minimizing the use of unnecessary excipients when the formulation allows. The result is a line of supplements that combines Metazome™ technological innovation, quality, and a formulation based on scientific evidence.
Below, we detail the products in our Metazome™ liposomal supplement line, developed to offer a more efficient way to provide essential nutrients and bioactive compounds of great relevance to health.
Liposomal Vitamin C
A powerful antioxidant that contributes to the normal functioning of the immune system, collagen formation, healing, and protection against oxidative stress. Liposomal technology can improve gastrointestinal absorption and favor greater availability of vitamin C. People with higher oxidative stress, such as those who use certain medications chronically or smokers, may have higher vitamin C requirements.
More information →
Triple Liposomal Magnesium (Taurate, Malate, Bisglycinate + Saffron)
A mineral that participates in more than 300 enzymatic reactions, contributes to muscle and nerve function, energy production, relaxation, and rest, among other benefits. The combination of different salts or chelations provides a complementary profile of absorption and utilization. Diuretics, proton pump inhibitors, and some other medications can favor a decrease in magnesium.
More information →
Liposomal Glutathione
It is the body's main intracellular antioxidant. It participates in hepatic detoxification, cell protection, and the balance of the antioxidant system. Conventional oral glutathione has limitations in stability and absorption. The liposomal formulation seeks to protect the molecule and favor its bioavailability. Glutathione participates in natural hepatic detoxification processes, so it can be a nutrient of interest for people exposed to long-term medications, always under professional supervision.
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Liposomal Vitamin D3 + K2
Contributes to the maintenance of bones, teeth, muscle function, and immunity. Vitamin K2 helps direct calcium toward the bones and participates in cardiovascular health. As they are fat-soluble vitamins, liposomal technology can favor their absorption and stability. Some medications, such as corticosteroids, anticonvulsants, or proton pump inhibitors used for long periods, can influence bone health. Vitamin K2 should not be used with warfarin or other vitamin K antagonists without medical indication.
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Liposomal Coenzyme Q10
An essential nutrient for energy production in the mitochondria, participating in cellular energy (ATP) production and acting as an antioxidant, being especially important for the heart, muscles, and brain. Its supplementation is of special interest for older adults and people who use statins, as these medications can decrease endogenous CoQ10 levels.
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Liposomal B Complex
B-complex vitamins are involved in energy metabolism, nervous system function, red blood cell formation, and neurotransmitter synthesis. Some hypoglycemic medications, such as metformin, may decrease vitamin B12 levels.
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Liposomal Selenium
An essential mineral that participates in thyroid function, the immune system, and antioxidant protection through enzymes such as glutathione peroxidase. The liposomal formulation can favor the bioavailability of the mineral. It may be a nutrient of interest for people with increased oxidative stress or higher needs.
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Liposomal Astaxanthin
A carotenoid antioxidant that helps protect cells against oxidative damage. It is widely used for eye health, skin, physical performance, and healthy aging. It can be an alternative to support antioxidant balance in people exposed to increased oxidative stress associated with lifestyle or chronic diseases.
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Liposomal Minerals
Provides essential minerals involved in hundreds of metabolic processes, including immune function, energy production, bone health, hormonal balance, and thyroid function. Liposomal technology can favor the absorption of different minerals and improve digestive tolerance. Some diuretics, antacids, proton pump inhibitors, and other medications can alter the status of certain minerals.
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Liposomal Vitamins
A complex of essential vitamins in active forms that supports energy production, immunity, bone health, cognitive function, and antioxidant protection. Some prolonged treatments or a lack of varied diet can affect the status of certain vitamins, so a balanced intake can help maintain adequate nutrition.
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Liposomal Antiox
Combines antioxidants such as ubiquinol, resveratrol, vitamin C, vitamin E, astaxanthin, lutein, and zeaxanthin to support cellular protection against oxidative stress and promote cardiovascular health, eye health, and healthy aging. People with chronic diseases or those on prolonged treatments may experience higher oxidative stress.
Learn more →Summary of drugs that can affect the bioavailability of certain nutrients
| Drug | Related nutrient | Biochemical basis |
|---|---|---|
| Statins | CoQ10 | Inhibit HMG-CoA reductase, decreasing the synthesis of mevalonate, a precursor to both cholesterol and CoQ10. |
| Metformin | Vitamin B12 | Reduces its absorption, which is dependent on the calcium-intrinsic factor complex in the ileum. |
| Omeprazole and other PPIs | Magnesium, B12, iron | Reduction of gastric acid decreases the release and absorption of certain nutrients. |
| Diuretics (furosemide, thiazides) | Magnesium and potassium | Increase the urinary excretion of minerals. |
| Corticosteroids | Vitamin D | Promote bone loss and alter calcium metabolism. |
| Anticonvulsants | Vitamin D and folate | Increase hepatic catabolism of vitamin D and can affect folate metabolism. |
| Antibiotics | Magnesium, calcium, iron, zinc | These minerals can decrease the absorption of the medication if administered simultaneously. |
As with any supplement, its incorporation should be part of a comprehensive approach to diet and lifestyle, and in specific cases, it is advisable to seek guidance from a healthcare professional. This content is for informational and educational purposes.
Ayleen Martínez
Orthomolecular Nutritionist
Bibliography
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- Sercombe L, et al. Advances and Challenges of Liposome Assisted Drug Delivery. Frontiers in Pharmacology. 2015.
- Bozzuto G, Molinari A. Liposomes as nanomedical devices. International Journal of Nanomedicine. 2015.
- Allen TM, Cullis PR. Liposomal drug delivery systems: From concept to clinical applications. Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews. 2013.
- Pattni BS, Chupin VV, Torchilin VP. New developments in liposomal drug delivery. Chemical Reviews. 2015.
