– Vitamin C is an essential water-soluble vitamin that cannot be manufactured in the body. Vitamin C is required for the synthesis of collagen, which is a protein that is a major structural component of skin, blood vessels, tendons, ligaments and bone. Vitamin C is important in supporting proper immune function. Vitamin C also serves as a powerful antioxidant that protects our cells from free radical damage and degeneration.
Vitamin C Functions
• Strong Immune System
• Builds collagen (elastic, young looking skin—anti-aging!)
• Antioxidant (protects cells from damage and degeneration)
Vitamin C Deficiency Symptoms
• Scurvy: bleeding gums, poor wound healing and extensive bruising
• Cardiovascular disease
• Weak immune function
Vitamin C Food Sources
• Citrus fruits
• Vegetables, such as broccoli, kale, peppers, potatoes and Brussels sprouts
• Maximum vitamin C is attained from fresh foods
Vitamin C Supplementation
• Ascorbic acid (most popular) — tablets, capsules, powders, etc.
• Buffered ascorbic acid (to lesson gastrointestinal irritation)
• Mineral ascorbate (sodium ascorbate & calcium ascorbate are most popular)
• Oral: 1 Gram to 9 Grams per day
• Intravenous (IV): 15 grams to 75 grams (by a medical professional)
Conditions Effectively Treated With Vitamin C
• Scurvy
• Cardiovascular disease
• Cancer
• Diabetes
• Common cold
• Asthma
• Allergies
• Cataracts
Vitamin C Resources
Book: Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements by Dr. Michael Murray, N.D.
On-Camera Host
Dr. Angela Agrios, ND
Video Produced by Larry Cook
