What is Vitamin C?

What is Vitamin C? Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for the proper functioning of the body. It is very unstable, depletes quickly and is not retained in the body, which makes it necessary to supplement it daily. People with high blood pressure or on a low-sodium diet should note that sodium ascorbate, a type of vitamin C, contains 111 mg of sodium per 1,000 mg.

What is Vitamin C?

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a drug with many uses outside of medicine. Vitamin C is also used in cosmetics. However, for years it has been known for its properties that positively affect the immune system. Few people realize that ascorbic acid is a powerful antioxidant that slows down the aging process, improves cardiovascular function and fights cancer. Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a compound with a long history of use in medicine. Vitamin C is essential for the proper functioning of the body because it is involved in many processes. In addition, vitamin C is used in cosmetics because it is a powerful antioxidant that fights free radicals, which are the cause of skin aging.

Vitamin C – truths and myths

Colds and flu can be treated with vitamin C, but it is not a cure-all. It is not a cure for the flu, nor is it a drug that can be used to prevent any ailments. Vitamin C has no demonstrated anti-infective properties. Fruit and vegetables, both fresh and properly processed, are the primary source of vitamin C.

Citrus fruits, on the other hand, have to travel a long way before they reach our stores, during which the antiseptics used to preserve them kill the vitamin C. In our own backyard, we have plenty of fruits and vegetables that are richer in vitamin C than citrus fruits. While there are many fruits and vegetables that contain vitamin C, rose hips are the best natural source of vitamin C because they contain bioflavonoids that enhance the effects of ascorbic acid. This vitamin is also found in small amounts in apples, cucumbers and onions.

Facts about Vitamin C?

Overuse of vitamin C leads to a visit to the nephrologist, because despite the fact that it is water-soluble and excreted in the urine, it causes urine acidification. It is difficult to excrete strong acids and bases. Urate and citrate crystallization can occur as a result of acidic urine, which leads to the formation of stones in the urinary tract. Excess vitamin C can reduce the absorption and effect of selenium and copper, as well as falsify the results of diabetes and hemoglobin tests.

Taken in high doses, it can cause nausea and vomiting, stomach cramps, and, ironically, lower resistance to colds and infections. What’s more, excessive intake of vitamin C can lead to a slight addiction.

Vitamin C – properties

Vitamin C has a much wider range of properties than most people realize. One of its key functions is to support the immune system in its operation. Vitamin C ensures that the body is sufficiently protected against viruses and bacteria, such as colds and flu. On the other hand, vitamin C has a much broader effect on the body’s immune function. Other functions of vitamin C in the body include the absorption of iron and the activation of several enzymes.

Vitamin C is particularly important because it supports the synthesis of collagen, which not only gives the skin a youthful appearance, but also protects the joints from overuse. Vitamin C can also help your gums, prevent swelling and protect your skin.

Vitamin C deficiency

Due to the abundance of fresh produce and the addition of ascorbic acid to certain foods and supplements, vitamin C deficiency is rare in developing countries. While serious symptoms of vitamin C deficiency may not appear for several months, there are some subtle signs to watch out for. The skin, hair, gums and other tissues are especially vulnerable during vitamin C deficiency in the body.

Vitamin C absorption

Vitamin C is characterized by high biological activity. It takes part in many reactions and transformations, and also intensifies a number of biochemical processes in the body. Vitamin C is absorbed by the body in about 70-80% of cases due to its high solubility and active transport. The duodenum and the proximal part of the small intestine are the primary organs involved in the absorption process. The effectiveness of this treatment depends primarily on the condition of the body.

Vomiting, lack of appetite, problems with digestion and absorption, dysfunctions of the digestive system, smoking and the use of certain medications (e.g. aspirin) can affect it. Vitamin C reserves in the body are minimal. It is most abundant in organs with high metabolic activity, such as adrenal glands, cerebral cortex, liver, mucous glands and pancreas.