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What is Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C)?

Vitamin C, otherwise known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that is of paramount importance to life. In 1937 the Nobel Prize for Medicine was awarded to Albert Szent-Györgyi for his studies of the biological functions of ascorbic acid. In its natural form, ascorbic acid can be described as a white to yellowish crystal or powder. Commercial vitamin C is often a combination of ascorbic acid, sodium ascorbate and/or other ascorbates. Because the vitamin is water-soluble, it must be consistently replenished and replaced by consuming fresh fruits, especially those found in the citrus family that is dominated by oranges, lemons, limes, and tangerines. Vitamin C can also be derived from green leafy vegetables.

Owing to the fact that Vitamin C is an essential nutrient found mainly in fruits and vegetables, the body needs vitamin C to strengthen and maintain bones, blood vessels, and skin. It can be said that among the common nutrients and biochemicals, Vitamin C is perhaps the most popular vitamin. Ascorbic acid, together with its sodium, potassium, and calcium salts, are typically used as antioxidant food additives. Once ingested, vitamin C is readily absorbed by the intestines and continues its transport through the watery components tissues that make up the human body, helping to build collagen protein while doubling as an antioxidant along the way. Together with flavonoids, polyphenolics and water insoluble compounds such as alpha-tocopherol (vitamin E), l-ascorbic acid contributes and helps the free radical scavengers become more effective and successful in their work.

The body does not manufacture vitamin C, so it must be obtained either from food sources or through supplements. All fruits and vegetables contain some amount of vitamin C. Foods that tend to be rich sources of vitamin C include green peppers, citrus fruits and juices, strawberries, tomatoes, broccoli, turnip greens and other leafy greens, sweet and white potatoes, and cantaloupe. Vegetables such as broccoli, sweet green and red peppers, potatoes (with skin), tomatoes, and Brussels sprouts are good sources. Cabbage and many dark green leafy vegetables are all good sources of vitamin C. Other excellent sources include papaya, mango, watermelon, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, cabbage, winter squash, red peppers, raspberries, blueberries, cranberries, and pineapples. Raw and cooked leafy greens (turnip greens, spinach), red and green peppers, canned and fresh tomatoes, potatoes, winter squash, raspberries, blueberries, cranberries and pineapple are also rich sources of Vitamin C.

What is Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) used for and who uses it?

Vitamin C has multiple functions as either a coenzyme or cofactor. Vitamin C is responsible for helping to build and maintain our tissues and strengthening our immune system. Vitamin C is essential for the oxidation of phenylalanine and tyrosine, and the conversion of folacin to tetrahydrofolic acid. Vitamin C may modulate prostaglandin synthesis to favor the production of eicosanoids with antithrombotic and vasodilatory activity. Vitamin C is required for synthesis of dopamine, noradrenaline and adrenaline in the nervous system or in the adrenal glands. Vitamin C is also needed to synthesize carnitine, which is of paramount importance in the transport of energy to the cell mitochondria. Ascorbic acid is required for collagen synthesis and has a structural role in bone, cartilage and teeth.

Vitamin C as an antioxidant - Vitamin C is one of many antioxidants. Antioxidants are nutrients that block some of the damage caused by free radicals, which are by-products that result when our bodies transform food into energy. Vitamin C neutralizes potentially harmful reactions in the watery parts of the body, such as the blood and the fluid inside and surrounding cells. Vitamin C may help decrease total and LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, as well as increase HDL levels. Vitamin C's antioxidant activity may be helpful in the prevention of some cancers and cardiovascular disease. The antioxidant properties of vitamin C are thought to protect smokers, as well as people exposed to secondhand smoke, from the harmful effects of free radicals. Vitamin C strengthens the collagen structure of arteries, lowers total cholesterol, and blood pressure, an inhibits platelet aggregation.

Vitamin C and heart disease - Vitamin C may protect against heart disease by reducing the stiffness of arteries and the tendency of platelets to clump together. Long-term administration of vitamin C reverses endothelial vasomotor dysfunction in patients with coronary artery disease. Under most circumstances, dietary vitamin C is adequate for protecting against the development of or consequences from cardiovascular disease. When taken with vitamin E, vitamin C helps protect LDL ("bad") cholesterol from oxidation, thus preventing plaque buildup in coronary arteries. Individuals with high blood levels of vitamin C have significantly reduced risk of stroke. The risk of stroke was inversely related to vitamin C in the bloodstream. Vitamin C improves nitric oxide activity. Nitric oxide is needed for the dilation of blood vessels, potentially important in lowering blood pressure and preventing spasms of arteries in the heart that might otherwise lead to heart attacks. Vitamin C has reversed dysfunction of cells lining blood vessels. The normalization of the functioning of these cells may be linked to prevention of heart disease.

Vitamin C and cancer - Vitamin C may have cancer-preventive activity, at least for certain types of cancer. As a powerful antioxidant, vitamin C may help to fight cancer by protecting healthy cells from free-radical damage and inhibiting the proliferation of cancerous cells. Vitamin C to improve the antineoplastic activity of doxorubicin, cisplatin and paclitaxel. The mechanism of the effect may be pro-oxidant, not antioxidant, activity of the vitamin in potentiating the effects of these chemotherapeutic agents. High concentratins of ascorbic acid in gastric juice may reduce the risk of gastric cancer by inhibiting the formation of carcinogenic N-nitroso compounds. Ascorbic acid is toxic to viruses and bacteria and other such harmful cells. It is also toxic to cancerous cells and a little less toxic to non-cancerous cells and so it is used therapeutically in cancer therapy. Many of the pollutants which now pervade our environment can cause carcinogenic, toxic or mutagenic effects. Vitamin C may be able to combat these harmful effects, in part by stimulating detoxifying enzymes in the liver.

Vitamin C and collagen, connective tissue - As a participant in hydroxylation, vitamin C is needed for the production of collagen in the connective tissue. These fibers are ubiquitous throughout the body; providing firm but flexible structure. Vitamin C is involved in the hydroxylation of proline to from hydroxyproline in the synthesis of collagen, a protein substance on which the integrity of cellular structure in all fibrous tissues depends. Collagen is the "glue" that strengthens many parts of the body, such as muscles and blood vessels. Collagen is a protein needed to develop and maintain healthy teeth, bones, gums, cartilage, vertebrae discs, joint linings, skin and blood vessels. Vitamin C is essential for the healing of wounds, and for the repair and maintenance of cartilage, bones, and teeth.

Vitamin C and immune system - Vitamin C may be useful as an immune stimulator and modulator in some circumstances. Vitamin C promotes resistance to infection through the immunologic activity of leukocytes, the production of interferon, and the process of inflammatory reaction, or the integrity of the mucous membranes. Vitamin C stimulates the immune system. Through this function, along with its antioxidant function, it may help in the prevention and treatment of infections and other diseases. There is some evidence that vitamin C inhibits the replication of human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1).

Other functions of vitamin C - Vitamin C has been reported to reduce activity of the enzyme, aldose reductase, in people. Aldose reductase is the enzyme responsible for accumulation of sorbitol in eyes, nerves, and kidneys of people with diabetes. Vitamin C levels in the eye decrease with age and that supplementing with vitamin C prevents this decrease, possibly leading to a lower risk of developing cataracts. Vitamin C may be helpful in protecting against some of the lipid oxidation caused by smoking. Vitamin C may be helpful in chronic diseases characterized by oxidative damage to biological molecules. People with recurrent boils (furunculosis) may have defects in white blood cell function that are correctable with vitamin C supplementation.

How pure is your Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C)?

This pharmaceutical grade L-Ascorbic Acid is a bulk powder (fine white crystalline granules) manufactured in compliance with BP2007 and USP31 standards. You will receive a labeled heavy-duty 4 mil polyethylene bag of this pure bulk powder product. Vitamin C is an essential anti-oxidant nutrient required in small amounts by the body for various metabolic processes and has been found to prevent scurvy. The United States Dietary Reference Intake recommends 90 mg Vitamin C per day up to a maximum of 2 grams (2,000 mg) per day. A 1.5 kilogram bag of Ascorbic Acid which is 1,500 grams by weight, consumed at a rate of 1 gram per day, would be enough to last for more than 4 years!

Ascorbic acid is a relatively fragile molecule and it may be lost from foods during preparation, cooking, and/or storage. Ascorbic acid is easily destroyed by oxidation, particularly in the presence of heat and alkalinity, and because it is highly soluble in water, it is often discarded in cooking water. Although the vitamin occurs in small amounts in animal tissues, it is usually destroyed either by exposure to air or by processing before it reaches the table. For these reasons, supplementation may be necessary. Due to the fact that our product is pharmaceutical grade, these are best utilized by the body, since they do not require digestion and are easily absorbed. Our product does not contain any fillers, additives or anti-caking agents. If all you want are the health benefits made possible with Ascorbic acid, buying this product in bulk is the best way to get there. Buying in bulk is also your best bet for saving money because for sure you’ll pay more at a local nutrition store. Bulk costs are cheaper in the long run and you will receive a great deal at or below wholesale prices for a high purity bulk quantity of this product.

What are some of the common effects of Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C)?

Vitamin C, also called ascorbic acid, helps to maintain healthy collagen in the skin, repair damaged tissue, promote healthy teeth and bones, and boost the immune system. Vitamin C is one of the more powerful and well-known antioxidants. Oxidation causes aging of the skin as well as all other organs and tissues of the body. Vitamin C, as a free-radical fighter, helps ward off wrinkles and many illnesses linked to oxidation, including cataracts, arthritis, heart disease, and cancer. Vitamin C functions as an anti-inflammatory, and helps the body fight inflammatory diseases, including arthritis, fibromyalgia, and chronic fatigue. A multitude of other conditions may be improved vitamin C, including angina, bronchitis, bruises, canker sores, constipation, diabetes, eyestrain, gingivitis, glaucoma, hangover, infertility, joint pain, rashes, rosacea, shingles, sore throat, sprains, sunburn, and yeast infections, urinary tract infections, and scurvy (a disease caused by vitamin C deficiency characterized by tiredness, muscle weakness, joint and muscle aches, a rash on the legs, and bleeding gums). Because vitamin C helps the body absorb iron, it is also useful in treating iron deficiency and anemia.

What is the daily suggested dose of Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C)?

A typically recommended dose for Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) can vary considerably. The United States Dietary Reference Intake recommends 90 mg Vitamin C per day up to a maximum of 2 grams (2,000 mg) per day, depending upon individual needs. The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for vitamin C in nonsmoking adults is 75 mg per day for women and 90 mg per day for men. For smokers, the RDAs are 110 mg per day for women and 125 mg per day for men. You can see the full bulk density/volumetric conversion chart for Ascorbic acid here. A dose of 200 milligrams daily is almost enough to maximize plasma and lymphocyte levels. Increased intakes of vitamin C are required to maintain normal plasma levels under acute emotional or environmental stress such as trauma, fever, infection, or elevated environmental temperatures. Full blood and tissue saturation is achieved with daily intakes of 200-500mg per day (in 2-3 divided doses).

Potential overdose, toxicity, and side effects of Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C)

Vitamin C is water soluble and is regularly excreted by the body. While vitamin C is generally non-toxic, and side effects and symptoms of over use rarely occur, however, in high doses (more than 2,000 mg daily) it can cause diarrhea, gas, or stomach upset. At high doses, some people can experience gastrointestinal side effects such as stomach cramps, and nausea, and may increase the risk of developing kidney stones. Intake of large amounts of vitamin C can possibly deplete the body of copper, an essential nutrient. Vitamin C increases the absorption of iron and should be avoided by people with iron overload diseases. Those who have kidney problems should check with a healthcare provider before taking vitamin C supplements. Infants born to mothers taking 6,000 mg or more of vitamin C may develop rebound scurvy due to a sudden drop in daily intake. People with hemochromatosis should not take vitamin C supplements because of enhanced accumulation of non-heme iron in the presence of this vitamin. If you experience any problems or side effects as a result of your use of this product you should cut back on your dose and if symptoms persist you should stop taking this product and consult your physician.

Taste, solubility, and suggested preparation of Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C)

L-Ascorbic Acid, the chemical name for Vitamin C, is the most bioavailable form of Ascorbic Acid (more than D-Ascorbic Acid) and is frequently added as a nutrient in commercially produced foods and beverages. This product is a white or yellowish white fine granular powder that dissolves quickly in water and has a sour taste. It can be mixed with and taken with either water or citrus fruit juices or drinks. It is normal for Ascorbic Acid crystals discolor slightly upon exposure to air and moisture.

Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) is used in the following Proprietary Formulas

Optimum Opti-Men, Universal Animal Pak, Universal Animal Stak, AST Multi Pro 32X, Optimum Opti-Women, Enzymatic Therapy True Organics Vitamin C, Higher Power Vitamin C 1000, Kaizen Ascorbyl Palmitate, Nature's Science Vitamin C-1000, NOW C-1000, NOW C-500, Solaray Vitamin C-500 Chewable, Ultimate Nutrition Vitamin C

References & Further Research

The effect of 5-year vitamin C supplementation on serum pepsinogen level and Helicobacter pylori infection
We conducted a population-based, double-blind, randomized controlled trial to examine the effect of vitamin C supplementation on serum pepsinogen (PG) level, Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori ) infection, and cytotoxin-associated gene A (Cag A) status. Subjects aged 40 to 69 years living in one village in Akita prefecture, a high-risk area for gastric cancer in Japan, were recruited through annual health check-up programs. Overall data showed vitamin C supplementation may protect against progression of gastric mucosal atrophy.

Vitamin C Supplement Use and Bone Mineral Density in Postmenopausal Women
A vitamin C benefit is the stimulation collagen and bone synthesis. Studies of dietary vitamin C intake and the relation with bone mineral density (BMD) have been conflicting, probably because of the well-known limitations of dietary nutrient assessment questionnaires. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the independent relation of daily vitamin C supplement use with BMD in a population-based sample of post menopause women. Vitamin C supplement use appears to have a beneficial effect on levels of BMD, especially among postmenopausal women using concurrent estrogen therapy and calcium supplements.

Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) for International Customers

We have the most economical shipping costs & labeling practices for International orders. You can see our shipping costs here. Also, please note, that anything in a 1.5kg package can be shipped within a single flat rate envelope, however our shopping cart mistakenly displays 2 envelopes. Go ahead and ship the order, and you will notice that it only charges you the cost of 1 anyway. Look at the shipping costs tab above to see for yourself how you can calculate these charges.

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