 |
 |
|
|
|
|
New evidence indicates that vitamin C works synergistically with vitamin E - that is, when these
vitamins work together, they have a greater effect than when they work separately. Vitamin E
scavenges for dangerous free radicals in cell membranes, while vitamin C attacks free radicals
in biologic fluids. These vitamins reinforce and extend each other's antioxidant activity.
Because the body cannot manufacture vitamin C, it must be obtained through the diet or in the
form of supplements. Unfortunately, most of the vitamin C consumed in the diet is lost in the
urine. When larger amounts of vitamin C are required due to serious illness, such as cancer, it
is more effective to take vitamin C intravenously, under the advisement and supervision of a
health care provider, than it is to take high doses orally.
Scurvy is a disease caused by vitamin C deficiency. It is characterized by poor wound healing,
soft and spongy bleeding gums, edema, extreme weakness, and "pinpoint" hemorrhages under the
skin. Fortunately, this condition is rare in Western societies. More common are signs of lesser
degrees of deficiency, including gums that bleed when brushed; increased susceptibility to
infection, especially colds and bronchial infections; joint pains; lack of energy; poor digestion;
prolonged healing time; a tendency to bruise easily; and tooth loss.
Sources
Vitamin C is found in berries, citrus fruits, and green vegetables. Good sources include
asparagus, avocados, beet greens, black currants, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cantaloupe,
collards, dandelion greens, dulse, grapefruit, kale, lemons, mangos, mustard greens, onions,
oranges, papayas, green peas, sweet peppers, persimmons, pineapple, radishes, rose hips,
spinach, strawberries, Swiss chard, tomatoes, turnip greens, and watercress. Herbs that contain
vitamin C include alfalfa, burdock root, cayenne, chickweed, eyebright, fennel seed, fenugreek,
hops, horsetail, kelp, peppermint, mullein, nettle, oat straw, paprika, parsley, pine needle,
plantain, raspberry leaf, red clover, rosehips, skull cap, violet leaves, yarrow, and yellow
dock.
Comments
Alcohol, analgesics, antidepressants, anticoagulants, oral contraceptives, and steroids may
reduce levels of vitamin C in the body. Smoking causes a serious depletion of vitamin C.
Diabetes medications such as chlorpropamide (Diabinese) and sulfa drugs may not be as effective
when taken with vitamin C. Taking high doses of vitamin C may cause a false-negative reading
in tests for blood in the stool.
For maximum effectiveness, supplemental vitamin C should be taken in divided doses, twice daily.
Esterified vitamin C (Ester-C) is a remarkably effective form of vitamin C, especially for those
suffering from chronic illness such as cancer and AIDS. It is created by having the vitamin C react
with a necessary mineral, such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, or zinc. This results in
a form of the vitamin that is nonacidid and that contains vitamin C metabolites identical to
those produced by the body. Esterified vitamin C enters the bloodstream and tissues four times
faster than standard vitamin C, moves into the blood cells more efficiently, and also stays in
the body tissues longer. The levels of vitamin C in white blood cells achieved by taking
esterified vitamin C are four times higher than those achieved with standard vitamin C. Further,
only 1/3 as much is lost through excretion in the urine. Natrol produces supplements of Ester-C
in combination with other valuable nutrients: one with the antioxidants Pycnogenol and
proanthocyanidins; another with the herb echinacea; and still another with garlic.
Cautions
If aspirin and standard vitamin C (ascorbic acid) are taken together in large doses, stomach
irritation can occur, possibly leading to ulcers. If you take aspirin regularly, use an
esterified form of vitamin C.
If you are pregnant, do not take more than 5,000 mg of vitamin C daily. Infants may become dependent
on this supplement and develop scurvy when deprived of the accustomed megadoses after birth.
Avoid using chewable vitamin C supplements, as these can damage tooth enamel.
LINKS TO ONLINE STORES
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that is required for tissue growth and repair, adrenal gland function,
and healthy gums. It also aids in the production of anti-stress hormones and interferon, and
is needed for the metabolism of folic acid, tyrosine, and phenylalanine. It protects against
the harmful effects of pollution, helps to prevent cancer, protects against infection, and
enhances immunity. Vitamin C increases the absorption of iron. It also may reduce the cholesterol
levels and high blood pressure, and prevent atherosclerosis. Essential in the formation of
collagen, vitamin C protects against blood clotting and bruising, and promotes the healing of
wounds and burns.
MoonDragon's Health Information: Nutrition Basics - Vitamins Index
MoonDragon's Nutrition Information Index
MoonDragon's Health Information: Nutrition Basics Index
MoonDragon's Health Index Page
MoonDragon's ObGyn Information & Discussion Index by Subject Order
MoonDragon's ObGyn Information & Discussion Index by Alphabetical Order