ASCORBIC ACID

Ascorbic acid is the water soluble form of vitamin C. It is considered a potent antioxidant and studies suggest that this nutrient may assist in the prevention of early death from heart disease and cancer. Ascorbic acid was originally revered for its anti-scurvy properties, but the focus on this supplement today is more on its potential cell protection properties. (Note: While most animals synthesize their own Vitamin C from glucose, people must rely upon dietary sources). Besides its antioxidant benefits, ascorbic acid plays a primary role in collagen formation which is essential for the growth and repair of tissue cells, gums, blood vessels, bones, and teeth. Older people and smokers have a much greater need for this vitamin than do younger individuals. While it has been suggested, there is no concrete evidence that esterified vitamin C or other specialized versions of it are more easily absorbed by the body than ascorbic acid.

How Ascorbic Acid Functions

Ascorbic acid strengthens the capillaries and cell walls and is an essential component of collagen formation. It functions in protein synthesis by changing the charge of iron so that it can be absorbed and works as an antioxidant. Ascorbic acid also assists in the construction of protein from amino acids. Its collagen benefits, which bind together the cells of connective tissue, help to promote healing, prevent bruising, and keep ligaments and tendons strong and healthy. Ascorbic acid is necessary for healthy bones, muscles, blood vessels, and cartilage. It's been known as the antioxidant's antioxidant because it functions to protect both beta-carotene and Vitamin E from oxidation. Vitamin C blocks the formation of nitrosamines (the cause of certain types of gastrointestinal cancers) from nitrates, which are commonly added to smoked and cured meat products.

Suggested Benefits of Ascoribic Acid (Vitamin C)

• Possible prevention against heart disease and certain types of cancer.
• Increases immunity and may increase resistance to colds or minimize them through its mild antihistamine effects.
• Potent antioxidant and raises blood glutathione, another antioxidant produced by the body.
• Helps aid in the prevention cataracts.
• Increases life span by enabling protein cells to stay together.
• Increases the body’s ability to absorb iron.
• Acidifies urine to possibly prevent some types of kidney and bladder infections (urinary tract infections). Helps relieve asthma.
• Helps to promote healthy gums.
• Assists in lowering blood cholesterol.
• Inhibits the development of many types of viral and bacterial infections.
• Is a natural laxative.
• Lowers blood clot incidences.
• Reduces allergy-producing effects of many substances.
• Prevents scurvy.