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When it comes to nutritional supplements, what the body absorbs is just as important as what’s on the label. That’s where bioavailability comes in.

Bioavailability refers to the amount of a nutrient that is absorbed from the gut (specifically the small intestine), enters the bloodstream, and reaches the cells where it’s needed or is stored for later use. It plays a critical role in determining how effective a supplement really is.

A supplement’s benefits don’t just depend on what nutrients it contains—but on how well those nutrients are absorbed and utilised by the body.

Why Bioavailability Matters

For patients trying to conceive or going through pregnancy, bioavailability can directly impact outcomes. A formulation that delivers nutrients in an easily absorbed form can make the difference between meaningful support and a missed opportunity. It’s an essential consideration when evaluating the therapeutic value of any supplement.

The Bioavailability Process

Bioavailability involves several key stages:

• Digestion

• Absorption

• Distribution

• Metabolism

• Elimination

Each stage is influenced by a number of internal and external factors. Let’s explore the main ones that impact how well nutrients are absorbed.

Key Factors That Influence Bioavailability

1. Nutrient Form
Some forms of nutrients are more easily absorbed than others. For example:

• Chromium picolinate is more bioavailable than chromium chloride

• Methylcobalamin (active B12) is better absorbed and tolerated than cyanocobalamin

• Methylfolate bypasses the conversion process that folic acid requires

2. Supplement Format
The physical format (whether capsule, sachet, tablet or liquid) can affect how quickly and efficiently the nutrients are released. Proceive® products are available as capsules and sachets, both chosen to support effective nutrient delivery and ease of use.

3. Nutrient Interactions
Nutrients don’t work in isolation. Some help with absorption, while others can hinder it.

Enhancers:

• Vitamin C improves non-heme (plant-based) iron absorption

• Vitamin D supports the absorption of calcium, magnesium and phosphorus

• A small amount of dietary fat helps absorb fat-soluble nutrients like carotenoids

Inhibitors:

• High zinc intake can reduce the absorption of iron and copper

• Tannins (found in tea, coffee, red wine) block iron absorption

• Phytates (found in grains, legumes, nuts) and oxalates (found in spinach, berries, coffee) can reduce mineral absorption

When formulating supplements, these interactions matter enhancers and inhibitors can cancel each other out, reducing effectiveness.

Proceive® is designed with these interactions in mind. Nutrients are carefully balanced to maximise absorption and minimise interference.

4. Individual Variability
Nutrient absorption is highly individual and influenced by:

• Age and sex

• Genetic profile (e.g. MTHFR variants - read more on this here)

• Gut health and microbiome

• Pre-existing nutrient levels

• Chronic illness or inflammation

• Medication use (e.g. the contraceptive pill may reduce absorption of some nutrients)

The Proceive® Approach

At Proceive®, bioavailability is at the heart of our formulations. We use high-quality, well-researched nutrient forms that are recognised for their absorbability. No unnecessary fillers or binders, just carefully selected ingredients designed to support your patient’s fertility and pregnancy journey. Proceive® products are delivered in capsules and sachets for ease of use and effective uptake, and every formula is built around what the body can actually absorb and utilise.

Clinical Considerations

When recommending supplements, it’s worth looking beyond the headline nutrient list. Consider:

• What form the nutrients are in

• Whether they interact positively or negatively with one another

• How well the supplement is likely to be absorbed based on the individual’s health status

In fertility and preconception care, timing is critical and so is the form of nutrition. A product designed with bioavailability in mind is more likely to deliver meaningful results.

Key Takeaways

• We are not just what we eat; we are what we absorb and utilise

• A supplement is only effective if the nutrients reach the body’s cells

• Proceive® goes further: more nutrients, in forms the body can actually absorb (such as Methylfolate)

• During conception and pregnancy, the body needs more than just the minimum, we provide optimal levels in bioavailable forms.

References

1. H.C. Schönfeldt, B. Pretorius, N. Hall, Bioavailability of Nutrients, Editor(s): Benjamin Caballero, Paul M. Finglas, Fidel Toldrá, Encyclopedia of Food and Health, Academic Press, 2016, Pages 401-406, ISBN 9780123849533.
2. Gibson, R. S. (2007). The Role of Diet- and Host-Related Factors in Nutrient Bioavailability and Thus in Nutrient-Based Dietary Requirement Estimates. Food and Nutrition Bulletin, 28(1_suppl1), S77–S100.
3. Melse-Boonstra A. (2020). Bioavailability of Micronutrients From Nutrient-Dense Whole Foods: Zooming in on Dairy, Vegetables, and Fruits. Frontiers in nutrition, 7, 101.