Why Bioavailability Matters: Getting the Most Out of Your Supplements
When it comes to supplements, most people focus on the ingredient list—how much magnesium, vitamin C, or zinc they’re getting. But there’s a crucial factor that often gets overlooked: bioavailability. Simply put, bioavailability is how well your body absorbs and utilizes a nutrient.
You could be taking the “right” supplements, but if they aren’t in a form your body can absorb efficiently, you’re not getting the full benefits. That’s why at Brother Barbell Supplements, we prioritize highly bioavailable forms of nutrients to ensure every capsule is working for you, not against you.
What Affects Bioavailability?
Several factors determine how well your body absorbs and uses a nutrient:
The Form of the Nutrient – Not all forms of a vitamin or mineral are created equal. For example, magnesium oxide has poor bioavailability, while magnesium L-threonate is far better absorbed, especially in the brain.
Digestive Health – A compromised gut can make it harder for your body to break down and absorb nutrients properly.
Nutrient Combinations – Some vitamins and minerals enhance each other’s absorption, while others compete. For example, vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, but too much calcium can block magnesium absorption.
Timing and Food Intake – Some nutrients, like fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K), are best absorbed with a meal containing healthy fats, while others, like iron, are absorbed better on an empty stomach.
Common Low-Bioavailability Nutrients (and What to Look for Instead)
Many supplement companies use cheap, poorly absorbed ingredients because they’re more cost-effective. Here’s a breakdown of some common low-bioavailability forms and what to look for instead:
Magnesium Oxide vs. Magnesium L-Threonate – Magnesium oxide is poorly absorbed, while magnesium L-threonate has better brain penetration, making it ideal for cognitive function and relaxation.
Choline Bitartrate vs. Alpha GPC – Choline bitartrate provides some choline but has poor uptake in the brain. Alpha GPC is much more bioavailable and directly supports cognitive function.
Synthetic Ascorbic Acid vs. Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vitamin C) – Synthetic vitamin C can be harsh on digestion, while ascorbyl palmitate is a fat-soluble version with better absorption.
Folic Acid vs. Methylfolate (B9) – Many people have trouble converting synthetic folic acid into its active form, methylfolate, which is more bioavailable.
Zinc Sulfate vs. Zinc Gluconate – Zinc sulfate can cause stomach irritation and has lower absorption, while zinc gluconate is gentler and more effective.
Maximizing Absorption for the Best Results
Even if you choose high-bioavailability supplements, you can take a few extra steps to ensure you’re getting the most from them:
Take Fat-Soluble Nutrients with Food – Vitamins A, D, E, and K absorb best when consumed with healthy fats like olive oil or avocados.
Be Mindful of Interactions – Calcium and iron compete for absorption, while vitamin C enhances iron uptake. If taking both, space them out for better absorption.
Optimize Gut Health – A healthy digestive system improves nutrient absorption, so consider probiotics, digestive enzymes, and fiber-rich foods.
Why We Prioritize Bioavailability at Brother Barbell Supplements
Many companies cut corners by using cheap, low-quality ingredients that your body struggles to absorb. At Brother Barbell Supplements, we take the opposite approach. We choose forms that maximize absorption, avoid artificial fillers that interfere with digestion, and ensure you’re getting the full benefits of each ingredient.
Because at the end of the day, what matters isn’t just what you take—it’s what your body can actually use.
If you’re ready to upgrade your supplement routine with research-backed, high-bioavailability formulas, check out our product lineup. Your body will thank you.
