Zinc

Why Zinc Bisglycinate instead of standard zinc forms?

The zinc form determines how much actually reaches systemic circulation. Zinc oxide and zinc sulfate are the cheapest forms — used in most budget supplements — but are poorly absorbed because they compete with other divalent minerals (calcium, iron) for the same intestinal transport pathway, and phytates in food further reduce their uptake. Zinc Bisglycinate is a chelated form: zinc is bound to two glycine molecules, creating a stable complex absorbed via amino acid transporters rather than mineral ion channels. This bypasses the competition and interference, giving meaningfully higher bioavailability. Bisglycinate also causes less GI discomfort — a common complaint with inorganic zinc forms.

What is liposomal Vitamin C and why is it better than ascorbic acid?

Standard ascorbic acid tablets or capsules rely on the sodium-dependent Vitamin C transporter (SVCT) in the small intestinal epithelium. This transporter saturates above ~200mg per dose — absorption efficiency drops sharply as dose increases, and the excess passes to the colon (causing the loose stools that high-dose Vitamin C is known for). Liposomal Vitamin C encapsulates ascorbic acid within phospholipid bilayer vesicles — the same structure as cell membranes. These vesicles can be taken up by intestinal cells via endocytosis, independent of SVCT, delivering Vitamin C intracellularly through a non-transporter route. The result is more efficient absorption, particularly relevant for those who don't tolerate high-dose standard Vitamin C.

What do the Citrus Bioflavonoids actually do?

In whole citrus fruit, Vitamin C and bioflavonoids (hesperidin, naringenin, rutin) always appear together. Citrus Bioflavonoids appear to support Vitamin C absorption in the gut, reduce its oxidative degradation before it reaches the bloodstream, and extend its tissue retention. Hesperidin — the primary bioflavonoid here at 46mg — also has its own antioxidant activity and supports capillary function. The inclusion of 115mg Citrus Bioflavonoids reflects a food-matrix-aligned approach, delivering Vitamin C with the natural cofactors that accompany it in whole fruit.

Why is the Vitamin C dose only 80mg — isn't that low?

80mg is 100% of the Indian RDA for Vitamin C. This is a daily maintenance dose, not a therapeutic one. The rationale for keeping it at RDA level (rather than 500–1000mg) is twofold: the liposomal delivery makes 80mg more efficiently absorbed than standard ascorbic acid at the same dose, and there's no strong evidence that chronically exceeding RDA provides additional benefit for most healthy adults — plasma Vitamin C saturates at relatively low intakes. If you want higher therapeutic Vitamin C, that's a separate clinical conversation.

Why is the zinc dose 17mg specifically?

17mg is 100% of the Indian RDA for zinc (adult men). This is a maintenance-level dose, appropriate for daily replenishment rather than therapeutic correction. Zinc has a tolerable upper limit around 40mg/day — chronic intake above this can deplete copper, because zinc and copper compete for intestinal absorption via the same metallothionein pathway. Staying at 100% RDA rather than megadosing avoids this risk while still meeting daily nutritional requirements using a highly bioavailable form.

Is this relevant for athletes?

Yes. Zinc is lost in sweat, and endurance athletes in particular have been found to have lower zinc status than sedentary controls in multiple studies. Both zinc and Vitamin C play roles in post-exercise immune function — heavy training transiently suppresses immune activity, and adequate micronutrient status supports recovery. Vitamin C is also a cofactor for collagen synthesis, relevant for connective tissue maintenance in training. This product is not a sports-specific formula, but it addresses nutritional gaps commonly seen in high-output individuals.

Can I take this alongside other Unived products?

Yes — the zinc and Vitamin C in this formulation don't interact adversely with CoQ10 (CURQ10), ALCAR, ashwagandha (Shoden®), or electrolytes (Daily Hydration). If you take zinc-containing products separately (some protein powders include zinc), be mindful of total daily zinc intake and keep it below 40mg from all sources.

Should I take this with or without food?

With food — specifically, post-breakfast. Zinc bisglycinate is better tolerated with food and absorption is not significantly inhibited by a normal meal (unlike inorganic zinc, which competes more with food minerals). Vitamin C absorbs well with food. Avoid taking zinc within 2 hours of antibiotics — particularly tetracyclines or fluoroquinolones — as zinc can chelate with these medications and reduce their absorption.

Is it vegan and allergen-free?

Yes. All three active ingredients are vegan. The capsule is HPMC (plant-derived). Free from soy, dairy, added sugar, nuts, gluten, artificial colours, fillers, and preservatives.

Does the liposomal Vitamin C contain any soy-derived phospholipids?

Liposomal encapsulation typically uses phosphatidylcholine, which can be sourced from soy lecithin or sunflower lecithin. This product is declared free from soy — confirm with the manufacturing specification if you have a soy allergy, as the phospholipid source matters for individuals with soy sensitivity.