The Medicine Store in Basehor

Vitamin C has numerous biological functions. Since human beings cannot create their own vitamin C, it is essential that we obtain vitamin C from our diet or other sources. Critical for the proper function of the immune system, vitamin c helps prophylaxis against viral infections. Vitamin C is essential for the synthesis of collagen and glycosaminoglycans, which are the building materials for all connective tissues. Vitamin C is the required coenzyme for two groups of enzymes, lysyl hydroxylase and prolyl hydroxylase, which catalyze the crosslinking of collagen fibers. That makes vitamin C essential for normal wound healing and capillary health. Vitamin C actively participates in the biosynthesis of carnitine, serotonin and certain neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine. Vitamin C is among the most powerful antioxidants available to humans and animals. It is a water-soluble, chain-breaking antioxidant that reacts directly with superoxide, hydroxyl radicals and singlet oxygen.

The antioxidant functions of vitamin C appear to have clinical significance in providing protection from free radical damage to the eyes, lungs, blood and immune system. The small intestine absorbs vitamin C by a sodium-dependent transport process that is intake dependent. In other words, with normal dietary intakes of 60-100 mg, up to 80-90% is absorbed. Absorption efficiency and vitamin C utilization increases when conditions of physiological stress and immune challenges occur. Maximum absorption is attained by the ingestion of several doses spaced throughout the day rather than one, larger single dose.

Clinical Applications

Suggested Use