Understanding Bioavailability

By ensuring high bioavailability, we maximise the benefits of the supplement while minimising potential risks.

Exploring Effective Technologies for Enhancing Oral Supplement Bioavailability

In recent years, a variety of advanced technologies have emerged to improve bioavailability.

Among these, certain methods stand out as particularly effective and promising.

Micronization

Micronization is the process of reducing the particle size of substances to enhance how quickly they dissolve. This method works best for substances that are very stable and unaffected by the gastric environment, yet benefit from increased bioavailability when reduced to a smaller size,

such as NAD, PEA, and creatine monohydrate. However, this method does not shield substances from strong stomach acids, making it unsuitable for acid-sensitive substances or those with lower stability.

Conventional Nanoencapsulation

This method goes beyond micronization by further reducing particle size to the nanoscale.

These tiny particles are then encapsulated (coated) with a single layer of polymers to help shield them from degradation and enhance absorption. Nanoencapsulation allows for precise control over particle size, making it suitable for applications requiring smaller particle sizes and that benefit from controlled or targeted release mechanisms. These include colon-targeted probiotics, omega fatty acids, and resveratrol. Nanoencapsulation is less suited for substances that are less stable or need increased protection from gastric acid. This is often the case with substances that have complex molecular structures or those that require very specific environmental conditions to remain stable and effective.

Liposomal Technology

This sophisticated technique involves encapsulating nano- or microspheres within a phospholipid bilayer, significantly enhancing their stability and the effectiveness of their delivery.

This technology is especially advantageous for vitamins and other substances that typically have low bioavailability, requiring both enhanced stability and better cellular absorption to be effective. The liposomal structure facilitates direct absorption into the bloodstream. Examples include vitamins (C & E), antioxidants (glutathione, coenzyme Q10), and phytochemicals (curcumin, ashwagandha). Due to the complexity and high cost of producing genuine liposomal supplements, it's essential to opt for reputable brands like Biomax®, PureWay C® or Zeal®.

Sucrosomial Technology

This novel technology adds yet another protective layer of sucrose esters around the phospholipid bilayer of the liposome. This further enhances nutrient protection and absorption.

The sucrester matrix increases the permeability of the intestinal barrier and allows nutrients to directly reach the bloodstream. This makes it particularly suitable for nutrients that are sensitive to the gut environment and require direct and sustained absorption into the bloodstream for effectiveness.

Compounds like selenium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and calcium benefit notably from sucrosomial technology, which provides almost complete protection against stomach acids and enzymes, increases nutrient bioavailability, and minimises gastrointestinal discomfort often associated with minerals like iron and magnesium. However, due to its patent protection, sucrosomial technology tends to be more expensive and complex to manufacture, and is available from only one global manufacturer.

Choosing the Right Supplement for You

When selecting a supplement, it's important to consider the properties of its ingredients, such as its stability, solubility, and acid sensitivity. Techniques like micronization and nanoencapsulation are designed to enhance dissolution rates, while liposomal and sucrosomial technologies provide advanced delivery and increased stability, protecting the nutrients from stomach acids.

By choosing supplements that employ the most effective technology for their specific characteristics, you ensure that the active ingredients are used efficiently by your body, supporting your health and well-being.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Carmi Wilmans holds a BSC Honours degree in Pharmacology, and is the Chief Operating Officer for Neogenesis Health.