When I received a sample of Cymbiotika Synergy Liposomal Vitamin C ($51) — a liquid supplement that can be added to water, juice, yogurt, or your favorite blended beverage — I figured it was worth a try. With fall and winter approaching, it seemed like the perfect time to up my intake of vitamin C.
Most supplements I've taken have been in capsule form, but this product — made from fermented tapioca — claims to allow for superior absorption and bioavailability, with all-natural vegan ingredients. It also contains bamboo silica, which studies show may improve bone health and aid in collagen production for the health of skin and nails. This is appealing to me because I suffer from an autoimmune disease, rheumatoid arthritis, which causes some hair loss and puts me at greater risk for developing osteoporosis. I also like the idea of upping my vitamin C, an antioxidant that is important for healing, immune function, and the formation of collagen.
I decided to add one tablespoon (the standard serving size) of Synergy C to a cup of ice water to see how I liked the flavor. It's an orange, syrupy liquid that smells strongly of orange and vanilla. When I added it to the water and stirred, however, it immediately transformed the water into a white, frothy color. I was pleasantly surprised by the taste. It tasted just like a Creamsicle! Maybe not quite as sweet — think of it as an adult Creamsicle, and what could be better than that? My kids even like the flavor, and my husband keeps stealing my drink after I make it. Even better than the taste, however, is the kick of energy that it seems to give me. I like to drink it before my morning workout or in the afternoons when I'm feeling lethargic.
One container of Cymbiotika's Synergy C contains about 30 servings, with 1,000 mg of vitamin C and 300 mg of bamboo silica per serving. At 68 calories per serving, it has around the same number of calories as the kombucha I normally drink throughout the day. This energy boost also feels a lot healthier than the diet soda I once drank for a pick-me-up, and I don't experience a crash later, either.
This product isn't cheap, but it's a great option for anyone who is in the market for a simple, tasty way to get more vitamin C. It's too early for me to tell if it has helped to prevent any hair loss or if I'll stay healthier throughout flu season. For now, it's become more of a way for me to treat myself during the day, and I am perfectly OK with that.
