Should you take liposomal NMN?
When it comes to NMN supplements, some forms may be more effective than others. Capsules, for instance, are believed to be less effective compared to sublingual powder, lozenges, or acid-resistant capsules. The reason for this is it all comes down to stomach acid wreaking havoc on NMN before it can do its magic in the bloodstream, where it's meant to work wonders on your cells and tissues.
Now, let's talk liposomes, those cool, tiny bubbles with a mission. Picture them as molecular superheroes, zooming through your body to deliver drugs and compounds like sulforaphane, vitamin C, and glutathione. However, we are still uncertain whether liposomes are necessary for NMN to provide optimal benefits to human health. We're still in the dark on that one, waiting for science to shed some light.
What are liposomes?
Liposomes can be described as tiny bubbles with a unique molecular structure that act as vehicles for transporting drugs and compounds into the body. They consist of a double layer of fat-based compounds called phospholipids, resembling our cell membranes. The inner part of the liposome is water-based, while the double-layered structure shields the enclosed compound during its journey through the digestive tract and bloodstream. Once the liposome reaches our cells, it merges with the cell membrane, releasing nutrients.
Turns out, liposomes are born from lipids, the cool kids on the molecular block. Think triglycerides, fatty acids, and cholesterol. They're the VIPs behind the scenes, ensuring our cellular membranes are top-notch in structure and function.
The human gastrointestinal tract poses challenges with its acidic conditions that can degrade nutrients. Now, let's face the harsh reality of our gastrointestinal tract—it's a battlefield of acidic conditions that can obliterate nutrients. That's where liposomal delivery struts its stuff, giving a masterclass in efficiency. These tiny warriors are small in size, and armed with hydrophobic and hydrophilic powers, making them an unstoppable force when it comes to delivering the goods.
Is Liposomal NMN better for you?
Liposomes have been in the scientific spotlight since the '70s, but it wasn't until the '90s that they truly came into their own. These days, they're the darlings of drug delivery, with the potential to change the game. Presently, there is no definitive evidence indicating that liposomal NMN is superior to other forms. However, a study discovered that vitamin C has better bioavailability when delivered via liposomes compared to its naked counterpart. Could the same be true for other compounds? That's the burning question - is liposomal NMN the holy grail?
Dr. Christopher Spade, an expert on liposomal delivery systems, suggests that liposomes mimic the natural cell-to-cell exchange of NMN, which could enhance absorption. However, such a claim lacks supporting scientific research.
While liposomal NMN may offer improved absorption compared to capsules, it may have similar effects to sublingual or acid-resistant capsules. Moreover, it's important to note that liposomal NMN in liquid or gel form would be ineffective due to NMN's degradation in water. Hence, liposomes need to be encapsulated for effective delivery.
As it stands, liposomal NMN may enhance absorption, but conclusive clinical research is lacking. Sublingual NMN or acid-resistant capsules could be equally effective alternatives. It is also worth considering other forms of NMN supplementation.
According to Dr. Spade, liposomal NMN provides faster and more efficient absorption by avoiding degradation in the gut. It boasts several benefits, such as high bioavailability, noninvasiveness, protection against the digestive tract environment, increased oral uptake, intracellular delivery, compatibility with hydrophilic and hydrophobic compounds, and adjustable dosing.
The jury is still out there on Liposomal NMN
Liposomal NMN might be the superhero absorption champion, but we're still waiting for those research superheroes to swoop in and confirm it. Sublingual NMN and delayed-release gastric capsules might just be standing shoulder-to-shoulder, ready to enhance bioavailability by sidestepping stomach acidity.
The world of NMN supplements is a wild one, with liposomes strutting their stuff, but plenty of other forms vying for the spotlight. Let's keep our eyes peeled for more evidence-based research because when it comes to boosting those NAD+ levels, we need the real deal.
