Vitamin C, also known as Ascorbic Acid, is a vital nutrient required by the human body for the growth and repair of tissues and is an antioxidant.

It is necessary to form collagen that, amongst other functions, helps keep the skin firm and to slow down the visible signs of aging.

The two most widely known benefits of Vitamin C are in the prevention of scurvy, a condition that can lead to death, and in the treatment of colds and influenza.

There is inconclusive research to suggest that it can also have some effect in heart disease, polio and other conditions.

Until the 18^th century scurvy was a principal killer of sailors on long voyages when fresh fruit and vegetables could not be stored on board.

When the Royal Navy introduced a regular intake of lime juice into sailors diet the problem was solved.

This is why the British are known as “limeys”.

Vitamin C is found in lemons, limes and other citrus fruits, mangoes, papayas, strawberries, tomatoes broccoli and other green leaf vegetables, green peppers and bean sprouts amongst other plant sources.

In the Indian sub continent limes are considered to have many other curative properties associated with their high vitamin C content.

It is important to note that humans, unlike most other animals, are unable to store vitamin C, and as a consequence a source should be included in the diet on a regular basis.

Do we need Vitamin C Supplements?

As we do not store vitamin c in our bodies a daily intake of a supplement containing the vitamin can be beneficial and unless taken in excessive amounts is unlikely to cause any harm.

There is continuing debate in the medical world concerning the amount of vitamin C that should constitute a recommended daily intake.

Guidance from US and Canadian Government agencies recommend 60 – 95 mgs a day with an upper limit of 2000mgs a day whereas the UK Food Standard Agency puts the level at 40 mgs a day.

Independent researchers have calculated from up to 400mgs a day to a high of over 6000mgs a day as beneficial doses in certain medical conditions.

There is a growing movement in the medical community advocating larger doses than governmental agency recommendations based on research into the short time the vitamin remains effective in a normally functioning human body.

There are conditions that can be harmed by larger than average doses of vitamin C so if in any doubt seek medical advice.

An indication that too large a quantity of the vitamin is being taken is the onset of diarrhea, known as the Bowel Tolerance Limit (BTL). This will cease as soon as the dose is reduced and is harmless.

Those with a serious illness will have a considerably lower BTL than healthy people

Take the vitamin supplement with or soon after a meal as a large dose on an empty stomach can cause acid indigestion.

Vitamin C is depleted by smoking so give the weed up or take an additional dose of 35mgs a day.

You cannot beat sticking to a regular balanced diet to maintain the optimum levels of vitamins, trace elements and the vital nutrients essential for healthy living.

Despite this there are some for whom their medical practitioner will deem it necessary to supplement their intake of vitamin C so if your skin looks and feels saggy dry and rough, your hair splitting, your gums tending to bleed or you are a heavy smoker you should take medical advice.

Tags: Vitamins, Vitamin C