How A Liposome Helps In The Absorption Of Vitamins And Medications

By Wanda Vaughn


Liposomes were discovered in the 1970s when they were first used to target the delivery of medications directly to where they were needed by the body. By producing a slower release of the active ingredients, the toxicity that could cause unwanted side effects was reduced. Liposomes are now used effectively in the nutritional supplement and cosmetic industries because it was discovered that the liposome technology improves nutrient absorption.

A liposome is a very small pouch with walls made up of phospholipids and filled with fluid. The phospholipids in the walls mimic those found in all cell membranes. It has been found that these liposomes are able to deliver various substances straight into the blood stream and directly to the cells of the body in a more efficient manner than the body normally can.

The type of lipids that are needed for cell regeneration and repair in the body are also part of a liposome. As the modern lifestyle and diet have greatly impacted the health of cell walls, this aspect of the make-up of liposomes enhances the ability of the cells to take up nutrients and oxygen. The health of cells in the body is therefore improved as a result of liposomal delivery.

Liposomes are now used in the treatment of several life-threatening health problems, with good effect. Included in this list are autism, congestive heart disease, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimers, Parkinsons and other age-related diseases.

Many nutrients and drugs are not absorbed very efficiently by the body and a liposome delivery system greatly enhances this absorption. For example, Co enzyme Q10 has an average absorption rate of three to five percent but when combined with a liposome, this increases to an incredible 90 percent or more.

Liposomal Encapsulation Technology is the name given to the technique of using these liposomes to get the required nutrient or medication to the targeted area in the body. Oral supplements and medicines might be broken down as they pass through the digestive tract, meaning that the full strength does not each the blood stream to be carried to where it is needed. This also means that the strength of the dose can be reduced with no loss of efficacy, also saving money and medical resources.

Vitamin C represents an excellent example for the use of LET, if only because it can be prepared in the home. Vitamin C is a vital nutrient for the body, as an antioxidant and immune booster. Humans do not make this vitamin and so must take it orally as food or supplements. Vitamin C supplements taken orally assimilate slowly and have a low rate of absorption. Intravenous injection was the only way to get higher doses of this vitamin and increase absorption rates. LET produces increased transfer rates straight to cells which produces greater rates of absorption than injections.

The advantages of LET have led to the introduction of the technique by some nutritional companies for their oral nutritional and dietary supplements. Look for your favorite supplements in a liposome format and increase the effectiveness of your supplement regime. It is also possible to mix your own liposome formulas at home and this is particularly popular with people taking vitamin C.




About the Author:



Pages number