The World of Vitamin C

Learn Which is Best Form of Vit C for Your Needs

In the realm of nutritional science, few compounds command as much respect and admiration as vitamin C.

This vital nutrient comes in many forms, all serving unique and important roles in our health and beauty.

Behind its unassuming façade lies a wealth of research-backed benefits, from bolstering immune function to supporting collagen synthesis and beyond.

The Benefits of Vitamin C

Join us as we delve into the scientific intricacies and real-world applications of this essential nutrient, exploring its role as a cornerstone of optimal nutrition and vitality.

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C Your Way to Great Health!

Some Interesting Facts About Vitamin C

• Enhanced Iron Absorption: Vitamin C enhances the absorption of non-heme iron from plant-based foods, such as spinach and lentils, by converting it into a more absorbable form. This can help prevent iron deficiency anemia, particularly in individuals following vegetarian or vegan diets.
• Wound Healing: Vitamin C plays a crucial role in wound healing by promoting collagen synthesis, which is essential for the formation of new tissue. Topical application of vitamin C may also help improve the healing process of cuts, scrapes, and surgical incisions.
• Reduces Risk of Gout: Studies suggest that vitamin C supplementation may help reduce the risk of developing gout, a type of arthritis characterized by painful joint inflammation. Vitamin C may help lower uric acid levels in the blood, which are associated with gout flare-ups.
  Supports Eye Health: Vitamin C is concentrated in the lens and aqueous humor of the eye, where it acts as an antioxidant and helps protect against age-related eye conditions such as cataracts and macular degeneration.
• Alleviates Exercise-induced Asthma: Some research indicates that vitamin C supplementation may help reduce the incidence and severity of exercise-induced asthma symptoms, such as coughing and wheezing, particularly in individuals with low baseline vitamin C levels.
• May Improve Mood: Vitamin C has been linked to mood regulation and may have antidepressant effects. Some studies suggest that vitamin C supplementation may help reduce symptoms of depression and improve overall mood, although more research is needed in this area.
• Supports Brain Health: Vitamin C is involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which play crucial roles in mood regulation and cognitive function. Adequate intake of vitamin C may help support brain health and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.
• Boosts Immune Function in Older Adults: Older adults tend to have lower vitamin C levels and may benefit from supplementation to support immune function. Vitamin C supplementation has been shown to reduce the incidence and severity of respiratory infections in older adults, particularly during the winter months.
• May Reduce Risk of Stroke: Some studies suggest that higher dietary intake of vitamin C may be associated with a lower risk of stroke. Vitamin C’s antioxidant properties help protect against oxidative damage and inflammation, which are underlying factors in stroke development.
• Promotes Healthy Skin from Within: While topical vitamin C is well-known for its skin-brightening and anti-aging effects, consuming vitamin C-rich foods or supplements can also promote healthy skin from within. Vitamin C supports collagen synthesis, improves skin elasticity, and helps protect against UV-induced damage, contributing to a youthful complexion.

 

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Deficient-C

Kids today still learn about the time long ago when travelers sailing across the ocean had to often deal with the condition known as “scurvy“. This was due to a lack of access to foods containing Vitamin C.

Although Vitamin C deficiency is no longer a common issue, it still affects many North Americans.

What Causes C Deficiency? 

Inadequate Dietary Intake: A diet low in vitamin C-rich foods, such as fruits and vegetables, can lead to deficiency over time. Factors such as limited access to fresh produce, dietary restrictions (e.g., restrictive diets, food allergies), or poor food choices may contribute to inadequate vitamin C intake.

Poor Food Preparation: Vitamin C is sensitive to heat, light, and air, which can degrade it during food preparation and storage. Overcooking or prolonged exposure to air can lead to vitamin C loss in foods. Additionally, certain cooking methods, such as boiling or microwaving, can further diminish vitamin C content in foods.

Alcohol Abuse: Excessive alcohol consumption can interfere with the absorption, utilization, and storage of vitamin C in the body. Chronic alcohol abuse can lead to malnutrition, impaired liver function, and increased oxidative stress, all of which contribute to vitamin C deficiency.

Smoking: Cigarette smoke contains harmful compounds that increase oxidative stress and deplete antioxidant reserves in the body, including vitamin C. Smokers have higher vitamin C requirements than nonsmokers due to increased oxidative damage and may be at greater risk of deficiency.

Certain Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions or health challenges may increase the risk of vitamin C deficiency. These include gastrointestinal disorders (e.g., Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis) that impair nutrient absorption, as well as chronic illnesses (e.g., cancer, diabetes) that increase metabolic demands for vitamin C.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Pregnant and breastfeeding women have higher vitamin C requirements to support fetal development, lactation, and maternal health. Inadequate intake or increased nutrient demands during these life stages can lead to vitamin C deficiency if dietary needs are not met through supplementation or diet.

Stress and Infection: Physical and emotional stress, as well as acute or chronic infections, can increase the body’s utilization of vitamin C and deplete stores more rapidly. Individuals experiencing prolonged stress or recovering from illness may require higher vitamin C intake to support immune function and overall well-being.

Aging: Older adults may be at increased risk of vitamin C deficiency due to age-related changes in metabolism, reduced dietary intake, medication use, and other factors. Age-related changes in gastrointestinal function, such as decreased stomach acid production and impaired nutrient absorption, can further exacerbate the risk of deficiency.

Poor Absorption: Certain factors can impair the absorption of vitamin C from the diet, leading to reduced uptake by the body. These factors may include gastrointestinal disorders such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, which can interfere with nutrient absorption in the intestines.

Even if deficiency isn’t a concern, the benefits of this wonderous nutrient are so great it should still be a part of your daily routine!

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Internal VS Topical Uses

To eat it or to apply it, that’s the question…

While most forms of vitamin C can be taken internally as dietary supplements or obtained through dietary sources, some forms are better suited for topical applications.

Here’s a quick breakdown 👇

1.  Forms Suitable for Internal Use:

• Ascorbic Acid
• Sodium Ascorbate
• Calcium Ascorbate
• Magnesium Ascorbate
• Ascorbyl Palmitate
• Ascorbyl Glucoside

These forms of vitamin C are commonly found in oral supplements, fortified foods, and natural sources like fruits and vegetables.

They are intended for internal consumption to support overall health, boost immunity, and promote collagen synthesis.

2. Forms Primarily Used for Topical Use:

• Ascorbyl Palmitate
• Ascorbyl Glucoside

While these forms of vitamin C can technically be taken internally, they are best used in skincare formulations for their stability and skin-penetrating properties.

Ascorbyl palmitate and ascorbyl glucoside are commonly found in serums, creams, and other topical products designed to brighten the skin, reduce signs of aging, and protect against environmental damage.

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Getting Vitamin C From Foods

Lots of different foods contain vitamin C, so getting your daily dose is pretty simple!

One of our favorite ways to incorporate vitamin C into your diet is by adding freeze-dried powders of vitamin C rich foods, such as Camu Camu, or Acerola Cherry into your smoothies.

It is important to note that Vitamin C is temperature sensitive and does degrade when exposed to heat, so stick to raw, or lightly streamed to reap the maximum benefits.

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Natural VS Synthetic

The main difference between natural and synthetic ascorbic acid lies in their sources and production methods:

Natural Ascorbic Acid:

Natural ascorbic acid is derived from natural sources such as fruits and vegetables, particularly citrus fruits like oranges and lemons. It is obtained through a process of extraction and purification from these plant-based sources. Natural ascorbic acid contains additional bioactive compounds and phytonutrients present in the whole food source, which may offer synergistic health benefits.

Synthetic Ascorbic Acid:

Synthetic ascorbic acid is produced in a laboratory setting through chemical synthesis from glucose or other precursor molecules. It is chemically identical to natural ascorbic acid but lacks the additional bioactive compounds found in whole food sources. Synthetic ascorbic acid is often used in food fortification, dietary supplements, and processed foods due to its lower cost and stability.

While both natural and synthetic ascorbic acid provide the same vitamin C molecule and offer similar health benefits, some individuals prefer natural sources for their potential synergistic effects with other nutrients found in whole foods.

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Best C Supplements

It is important to remember that synthetic vitamin C is an isolated form that lacks all of the other essential phytonutrients necessary for proper metabolization, so we always opt for food-based forms of nutrition first.

BUT, if you are dealing with a bout of infection or illness, or have a picky eater on your hands, vitamin C supplements can be a great ally in your quest for better health, just remember to ensure you are supplying your body with a full spectrum of adequate nutrition!

Liposomal C:

Liposomal vitamin C is a specialized form of vitamin C that utilizes liposomes, which are tiny lipid (fat) particles, to encapsulate the vitamin C molecules.

This encapsulation enhances the absorption and bioavailability of vitamin C, allowing for better delivery to cells and tissues throughout the body.

Some studies have shown that liposomal vitamin C can achieve higher plasma concentrations and provide a more sustained release of vitamin C compared to conventional oral supplements.

Sodium Ascorbate:

Sodium ascorbate is a buffered form of vitamin C that is less acidic than ascorbic acid, making it gentler on the stomach.

It is an excellent option for individuals with sensitive digestive systems or those prone to acid reflux.

Sodium ascorbate supplements are available in tablet or powder form and provide immune support and antioxidant benefits similar to ascorbic acid.

Ester-C®:

Ester-C® is a patented form of vitamin C that combines calcium ascorbate with metabolites derived from vitamin C.

This unique formulation enhances the absorption and retention of vitamin C in the body, allowing for higher bioavailability and longer-lasting effects.

Ester-C® supplements are well-tolerated and may be less likely to cause gastrointestinal discomfort compared to other forms of vitamin C.

Ascorbic Acid:

Ascorbic acid is the most common and readily available form of vitamin C.

It is affordable, easily absorbed by the body, and can be found in various oral supplement forms such as tablets, capsules, and powders. As with all things though, you get what you pay for.

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Choosing the Right Supplement For You

The best vitamin C supplements vary depending on individual needs, preferences, and health considerations. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a vitamin C supplement:

1. Formulation: Vitamin C supplements come in various forms, including ascorbic acid, sodium ascorbate, calcium ascorbate, and buffered forms like Ester-C®. Choose a formulation that suits your preferences and digestive tolerance.

2. Bioavailability: Look for vitamin C supplements with enhanced bioavailability, such as liposomal or micellized formulations, which may improve absorption and utilization in the body.

3. Purity and Quality: Select supplements from reputable brands that adhere to good manufacturing practices (GMP) and undergo third-party testing for purity, potency, and safety.

4. Dosage: Consider your individual vitamin C needs and dosage preferences. Supplements are available in various strengths, from low-dose to high-dose formulations. Consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dosage for your health goals and concerns.

5. Additional Ingredients: Some vitamin C supplements may contain additional ingredients, such as bioflavonoids, minerals, or antioxidants, which can enhance absorption or provide complementary health benefits. Choose supplements with ingredients that align with your health goals and preferences.

6. Form: Vitamin C supplements are available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, powders, and chewable tablets. Select a form that is convenient and easy for you to incorporate into your daily routine.

7. Price: Consider the cost-effectiveness of the supplement relative to its quality, dosage, and serving size. Compare prices across different brands and formulations to find the best value for your budget.

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Did You Know… MSM + Vitamin C:

= Perfect Pair

Speaking of perfect co-factors, Vitamin C and Organic Sulfur/Pure MSM play very complementary roles in supporting overall health and well-being.

As we have learned, Vitamin C is amazing for so many functions in the body, but when paired with MSM its benefits increase exponentially.

This is because MSM is an amazing potentiator for nearly every nutrient the body requires.

The Core Benefits of MSM Taken With Vitamin C 

Synergistic Effects: MSM provides sulfur, a key building block for proteins and connective tissues, while Vitamin C is essential for the synthesis of collagen. Together, they support joint health, skin elasticity, and faster recovery from pain / injury + so much more.

Enhanced Absorption: MSM significantly boosts the absorption of Vitamin C, ensuring that your body gets more of the good stuff where it needs it. FYI, MSM actually boosts most vitamins and supplement absorption, making your hard earned money count!

Amplified Antioxidant Properties: Both MSM and Vitamin C are antioxidants, but when they join forces, they significantly enhance each other’s ability to fight free radicals. This is crucial for reducing oxidative stress and supporting overall health.

Immune System Boost: Vitamin C is well-known for its immune-boosting properties. MSM, on its part, can help modulate inflammation. Together, they can keep your immune system in tip-top shape, ready to fend off invaders.

Detoxification: MSM is a 5 star detoxifier, but  with added  Vitamin C, both assist in neutralizing the free radicals generated during detoxification. This tag team ensures a cleaner, more efficient detox process.

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Bottom Line

Vitamin C is a vital, versatile nutrient with profound benefits for both health and beauty.

Its antioxidant properties help protect cells from damage, supporting immune function and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

Additionally, vitamin C promotes collagen synthesis, improving skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

By incorporating vitamin C into your daily routine through diet or supplementation, you can nourish your body from within, enhancing overall wellness and radiance for more vibrant, youthful he

Taking vitamin C with pure MSM is ideal to boost the properties of each, and magnify benefits across the body.

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