Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
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Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that supports immune health, promotes collagen synthesis, and protects cells from oxidative stress.
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) is a powerful antioxidant that supports immune health, collagen synthesis, and iron absorption. It is abundant in fruits like oranges, kiwi, and strawberries.
It helps protect cells from oxidative damage and supports wound healing and skin health. Vitamin C is water-soluble and must be consumed regularly through diet or supplements.
Vitamin C is used for immune support and skin health. It is safe for most people, though very high doses can cause digestive discomfort.
Other names & forms of Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) supplement : vitamin c, ascorbic acid, l-ascorbic acid, ascorbate, c vitamin
Possible Benefits
Vitamin C delivers essential benefits for immunity, skin health, and cellular defense against oxidative stress:
- Helps strengthen Immunity by supporting white blood cell activity and enhancing pathogen defense.
- Promotes Skin Health through collagen production, aiding in wound healing and maintaining skin elasticity.
- Contributes to overall General Health by combating free radicals and reducing oxidative stress.
- May support Heart Health by protecting blood vessels and improving endothelial function.
Side Effects
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) is a key antioxidant and immune support nutrient, but high doses may cause mild effects. Watch for:
- Mild gastrointestinal upset, nausea, cramps, or diarrhea, especially when taken on an empty stomach
- Possible heartburn or acid reflux in sensitive individuals
- Occasional headache or dizziness with very high doses
- Temporary mild kidney stone risk in predisposed users due to oxalate formation
- Rare allergic reactions, rash or itching, in hypersensitive individuals
Interactions
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) enhances iron absorption; if you take iron supplements, coordinate timing to optimize efficacy and minimize GI upset.
Precautions
Before supplementing with Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid), confirm none of the following apply to you. If they do, consult your healthcare provider:
- Individuals with kidney disease or history of kidney stones: High doses can increase oxalate; use with caution and adequate hydration
- People with G6PD deficiency: High-dose vitamin C may trigger hemolysis; avoid megadoses
- Those on chemotherapy: Antioxidant effects may interfere; consult your oncologist
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Generally safe at RDA levels; avoid excessive supplemental doses without medical advice
- Patients scheduled for surgery: Discontinue high-dose supplementation at least two weeks prior, may affect anesthesia and bleeding
Studies
These studies provide scientific insights into Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) benefits:
A 2017 RCT in 120 healthy adults showed 500 mg/day ascorbic acid for 8 weeks increased plasma vitamin C levels but did not reduce incidence of common cold compared to placebo .
A 2022 systematic review reported no significant effect of vitamin C supplementation on asthma control or lung function in adults with mild-to-moderate asthma .
A 2015 randomized trial found 1 g/day vitamin C did not improve endothelial function in high-risk cardiovascular patients versus placebo .
High-dose vitamin C may enhance iron absorption in anemic individuals, but large-scale RCTs are lacking to confirm clinical outcomes.
Disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes and does not replace medical advice. If you're pregnant, have a condition, or take medication, speak with a qualified professional.
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