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Chewable Vit C - 150mg

About Vitamin C

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a water-soluble vitamin. It cannot be produced in the body so a regular dietary intake is necessary. Vitamin C is known to be involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body. The vitamin is essential in maintaining healthy skin, hair, teeth, gums, eyes, bones and ligaments. Its main function is to repair body tissue and maintain the health of blood vessels and red blood cells. Vitamin C carries out most of its function through acting as a powerful antioxidant.

Biochemistry / Modes of Action

The Functions Of Vitamin C Are Based Largely On Its Antioxidant Properties. It is required for :

A) Formation of collagen and other organic constituents of the intercellular matrix in teeth, bone and capillaries.

B) Functioning of certain enzymes in the body - activation of certain liver detoxifying enzymes involved in drug metabolism including the hepatic cytochrome P450 mixed function oxidase system.

C) It also acts as a very potent antioxidant - reacting with free radicals and is important in the protection of cellular function.

Absorption, Distribution, Elimination And Bioavailability

Vitamin C is absorbed via passive and active transport mechanisms. It is transported in the free form and is readily taken up by body tissues. Vitamin C is excreted mainly via the urine. Storage and cooking leads to loss of vitamin C through oxidation.

Supplemental Uses

Anaemia And Haemorrhagic Disorders - Vitamin C is used in the treatment of anaemia due to its connection with iron absorption. Vitamin C and bioflavonoids have been shown to strengthen fragile capillaries with regards to haemorrhagic disorders.

Allergies - Vitamin C may hep to relieve some allergic symptoms.

Asthma - Asthmatics have lower levels of vitamin C in their blood which may be linked to increased attacks. Vitamin C supplementation can raise these levels and make attacks less frequent, especially during exercise.

Hypertension - Vitamin C has shown some positive results in those with elevated blood pressure.

Iron Deficiency States - Vitamin C increases the absorption of iron in iron-deficiency states.

Precautions / Adverse Effects

Taking excessive amounts (3 grams and over) in a single dose can cause diarrhoea and gastrointestinal disturbances.

People with a family history of kidney stones should not exceed 1 gram daily.

People who suffer from stomach and duodental ulcers should avoid taking high doses of vitamin C (ascorbic acid). The "buffered" (non-acidic) form can be used in the healing of ulcers.

Drug Interactions

The effects of tricyclic antidepressants (amitriptyline, imipramine) may be reduced by vitamin C.

Cortisones, contraceptive pills and aspirin may interfere with the absorption of vitamin C.