Vitamin C – Ascorbic Acid

Summary

Vitamin C is a water- soluble vitamin which plays a large part in many of the body’s functions. It is an antioxidant nutrient and protects cells from oxidative damage.

Vitamin C prevents the conversion of nitrates (smog, tobacco smoke) from forming into cancer-causing substances. Vitamin C is needed to make collagen – a substance which strengthens many parts of the body and maintains the structure of skin, bone, gums and blood vessels.

It helps protect LDL (good) cholesterol from oxidative damage and there is evidence to suggest that Vitamin C may decrease the risk of certain cancers by 75%.

Deficiency of this could cause:

Soft, bleeding gums

Swollen, painful joints

Slow healing wounds/fractures

Tooth decay

Loss of appetite

Muscular weakness

Anaemia

Poor digestion

Muscle and capillary weakness

Vitamin C – Ascorbic Acid can be used to Treat

High cholesterol

The common cold

Gingivitis

Infection

Wound healing

Bronchitis

To improve athletic performance

Bruising

Normal Dosage

500-1000mg daily

Possible Side Effects

It is not stored in the body so toxicity cannot build. High doses can sometimes cause diarrhea. High doses can also deplete copper in the body.

Contra Indications

Naturally Found In

Vitamin C is found in small amounts in milk and liver, but most is in fruit and vegetables especially potatoes, citrus fruits, blackcurrants and tropical fruits.