What Is The Best Form Of Vitamin C For Superior Absorption?

Why is vitamin C important?

 

Humans are unable to synthesize their own vitamin C. Additionally, vitamin C is water-soluble and cannot be stored in the body – this means it must be regularly supplied by the diet.

Vitamin C is considered an essential vitamin because the human body is incapable of producing it internally. Therefore, it must be obtained from external sources. This vital nutrient is predominantly present in fruits and vegetables, including peppers, citrus fruits, broccoli, strawberries, kiwis, acerola and berries. Enjoying a refreshing glass of orange juice is also a reliable way to incorporate vitamin C into your diet.

There are also a wide variety of vitamin C supplements – in different forms such as capsules, gummies, liquid or liposomal, and time release vitamin C. Are you confused and wondering which has a better absorbtion?

 

 

Vitamin C in fat or liquid form – which has a better absorbtion rate?

 

Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin, which means it dissolves in water.

The presence of fat or lipids does not significantly affect the absorption of vitamin C. Unlike fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamins A, D, E, and K, vitamin C does not require the presence of fat for absorption. It is absorbed directly into the bloodstream from the small intestine and transported to various tissues throughout the body. The absorption of vitamin C primarily depends on the capacity of the small intestine to absorb it.

That being said, consuming vitamin C with a meal that contains some fat can have some advantages. The presence of dietary fat can help slow down the digestive process and promote a gradual release of vitamin C into the intestine, potentially enhancing its absorption. However, this effect is generally modest and not specific to vitamin C absorption alone.

 

 

Vitamin C from foods, vitamin C in capsules or gummies, vitamin C in liquid form or vitamin C in fat – which offers superior absorbtion?

 

When it comes to the absorption of vitamin C, there is no significant difference between obtaining it from foods, supplements, liquid or liposomal form. The absorption of vitamin C primarily depends on the capacity of the small intestine to absorb it.

When considering the absorption of vitamin C, it is generally observed that food sources of this vitamin are more effectively absorbed compared to supplements. However, studies examining the bioavailability of vitamin C in humans have found minimal differences, to the extent that these differences have negligible physiological impact.

Whole foods that are rich in vitamin C, such as fruits and vegetables, often provide additional nutrients and fiber, which can enhance overall health, nutrient absorption and nutritional value. Consuming a variety of these foods can contribute to meeting your daily vitamin C requirements while providing other beneficial compounds.

Vitamin C supplements, including tablets, capsules, or powders, are designed to provide a concentrated dose of vitamin C. The absorption of vitamin C from supplements is generally comparable to that from food sources, assuming the supplement is of good quality and is properly formulated.

Liquid forms of vitamin C, such as vitamin C drops or syrups, can be absorbed efficiently, as they are already in a dissolved state and readily available for absorption. While consuming vitamin C with a small amount of fat may have minor benefits in terms of slowing down digestion and promoting a gradual release of vitamin C, the difference is not substantial.

Time-release vitamin C refers to a type of vitamin C supplement that is designed to release the nutrient slowly into the body over an extended period. Instead of being rapidly absorbed and excreted, time-release formulations are intended to provide a sustained release of vitamin C, ensuring a gradual and prolonged availability of the nutrient in the body.

The specific mechanisms and technologies used for time-release formulations can vary among different manufacturers and products. These formulations often involve encapsulating the vitamin C within a matrix or using coatings that dissolve at different rates, allowing for a controlled release of the nutrient.

The idea behind time-release vitamin C is to maintain a steady level of the nutrient in the bloodstream over a more extended period, potentially extending the benefits of vitamin C supplementation throughout the day. This can be particularly useful for individuals who prefer to take a single supplement dosage and want to avoid frequent dosing throughout the day. It’s important to note that while time-release vitamin C supplements have their advantages in terms of prolonged availability, the overall absorption and utilization of vitamin C may still depend on individual factors and the specific formulation used.

 

In summary, while consuming vitamin C with a small amount of fat may have some minor benefits, it is not necessary for optimal absorption. It’s more important to focus on meeting your daily recommended intake of vitamin C through a balanced diet or, if necessary, through dietary supplements.

 

 

Garden of Life Vitamin C

This supplement is made with organic whole food ingredients, and is specifically formulated with 500mg of whole food Vitamin C along with naturally occurring bioflavonoids.

The formula is enriched with probiotics and enzymes to provide support for immune and digestive systems.  The product is Third-Party Certified Non GMO, Gluten Free, Vegan and Kosher.

 

 

 

Thorne Research Buffered Vitamin C Powder – This is a dietary supplement that provides a high dose of vitamin C in a form that is gentle on the stomach. It is free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives and is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

 

 

LivOn Laboratories Lypo–Spheric Vitamin C

This supplement utilizes a revolutionary method of enhanced Vitamin C delivery – Liposomal Encapsulation Technology – designed to help your body absorb more Vitamin C.

LivOn Laboratories Lypo–Spheric Vitamin C was shown to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in 4 weeks. Vegan, Non GMO, gluten-, dairy- and sugar-free formula.

 

 

Solgar Vitamin C with Rose Hip and Acerola: This supplement provides 1000 mg of vitamin C per tablet, and is made with non-GMO ingredients.

 

Garden of Life Baby Vitamin C Drops

Vitamin C is sourced from Certified Organic Emblic (Amla Berries), delivering 45 mg of real food Vitamin C per serving.  The liquid formula has a mild and pleasant citrus taste, and mixes easily into food or liquids.  Third-Party tested and Certified Organic, Non GMO, Gluten Free, Vegan & Kosher.

 

 

Shop easily for vitamin C on Amazon!

 

 

 

Read also: Best Vitamin C Supplements of 2023