The absorption problem that is rarely talked about
In every drugstore, the shelves are stocked with supplements. What the label doesn't tell you is how much of the dose actually makes it into your bloodstream. Stomach acid, bile salts, the intestinal wall, and liver metabolism all work together to ensure that a portion of any ingested nutrient is broken down or not absorbed.
What exactly is a liposome?
A liposome is a microscopic sphere made up of one or more double layers of phospholipids: the same molecules that make up the membranes of all your cells. Inside the sphere, water-soluble nutrients are shielded from their surroundings. Fat-soluble nutrients can be incorporated into the membrane itself.
A liposome is essentially a miniature version of a cell membrane.
Because liposomes are made of the same material as cell membranes, they align well with how the body handles fats and membranes.
How liposomal delivery works, step by step
Encapsulation
Water-soluble nutrients (such as vitamin C and glutathione) are dissolved in the aqueous core. Fat-soluble nutrients (such as coenzyme Q10 and vitamin K2) are incorporated into the double layer of phospholipids.
Protection against stomach acid
The phospholipid shell is intended as a protective layer against stomach acid, so that the nutrient inside is less broken down during digestion.
Absorption in the intestine
In the small intestine, liposomes can be absorbed via endocytosis: the mechanism by which cells "enclose" particles. This is a different route than the normal absorption of individual nutrients.
Release
After absorption, the liposome releases its contents. The nutrient then enters the lymph and the bloodstream.
Regular vs. liposomal: the differences
What real liposomes look like, and how to recognize fakes
Phospholipid vesicles formed under controlled conditions. The double layers can be made visible using transmission electron microscopy (TEM).
A nutrient that has simply been mixed with lecithin powder. No encapsulation and no liposomal structure.
The PPH standard: dry liposomal technology
Our dry liposomal technology preserves liposomal structures in a dry powder matrix, inside a plant-based capsule. This is how we combine liposomal encapsulation with a stable form without preservatives.
For which nutrients is liposomal delivery interesting?
Conclusion
Liposomal technology is not a marketing trend, but an approach that has long been researched to improve the oral absorption of nutrients. View the PPH range and read more about our research.
"Your vitality is not optional — it is essential."
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
- Davis, J.L. et al. (2016). Liposomal-encapsulated Ascorbic Acid: Influence on Vitamin C Bioavailability. Nutrition and Metabolic Insights. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27499631
- Salehi, B. et al. (2020). Liposomal delivery of natural compounds. Molecules. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/PMC7178150
- Sethi, D. et al. (2021). An overview of liposomes — classification, properties, preparation and clinical applications. Research Journal of Pharmacy and Technology.
