Vit. C

What is Vitamin C?

Fun fact: did you know that most animals can make their own vitamin C, but that apes (including humans), monkeys, bats, rodents, and certain other animals cannot synthesize this precious vitamin? This is why we must ensure we get an adequate amount through diet and/or supplementation.

vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin found in citrus and other fruits and vegetables and is also widely available as a dietary supplement. Vitamin C has numerous impressive uses inside the body, not the least of which is as a potent, water-soluble antioxidant that works tirelessly to protect the body's cells and tissues against free radicals and prevent oxidative damage. Indeed, the antioxidant effects of Vitamin C are well-established and have been demonstrated by solid scientific research.

Moreover, studies indicate that Vitamin C plays a role in several other aspects of health, including boosting immune function, speeding wound healing, promoting healthy bone formation, stimulating collagen synthesis, and supporting connective tissues in the body. In fact, because of its nourishing and clarifying properties and antioxidant power, Vitamin C is terrific for helping to slow the signs of skin aging, prevent sun damage, and improve the appearance of wrinkles, dark spots, and acne.

Benefits of Vitamin C

• Boosts Immunity
• Enhances Antioxidant Protection/Protect Eye Health
• Essential For Normal Growth & Development
• Sharpens Brain Function
• Stimulates collagen Synthesis

Who Needs Vitamin C?

The short answer to this question is EVERYONE! Indeed, Vitamin C is essential to health, and just about every child and adult could benefit from supplementation. This being said, certain individuals may be especially good candidates for vitamin C supplementation. These include:

People who smoke or are exposed to secondhand smoke

Those who consume alcoholic beverages regularly

People who do not consume a varied diet

Infants who consume only evaporated or boiled milk

Individuals with certain health conditions, including GI disorders that hinder the intestinal absorption of nutrients

Vitamin C Supplements

Vitamin C is one of the most frequently used nutritional supplements worldwide and is available in a dizzying array of forms: ascorbic acid, mineral ascorbates, buffered C, liposomal C, ascorbyl palmitate, and wholefood Vitamin C. It also comes in various formats, such as tablets, capsules, powders, chewable, gummies, and emulsifiers, typically supplying between 250 and 1000 mg of vitamin C per dose.

Final Thoughts On Vitamin C As An Antioxidant

As a water-soluble vitamin, any excess amount of vitamin C you take will not be stored in the body; instead, it will be excreted via urine. Because of this, vitamin C supplementation is very safe and rarely causes side effects. It can, however, occasionally cause adverse symptoms when taken in larger doses (nausea, gas, bloating, diarrhea, and stomach pain). In such instances, you can try taking your total daily amount in divided doses throughout the day. If that does not work, reduce your daily dose.

If you aren't sure how much Vitamin C you should take, speak to our knowledgeable staff for guidance.