Vitamin C

Vitamin C

Vitamin C, also called ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble nutrient that is easily excreted from the body when not needed. The protective role of vitamin C goes far beyond our skin and gums. Cardiovascular diseases, cancers, joint diseases and cataracts are all associated with vitamin C deficiency and can be partly prevented by optimal intake of vitamin C.

Vitamin C achieves much of its protective effect by functioning as an antioxidant and preventing oxygen-based damage to our cells. Structures that contain fat (like the lipoprotein molecules that carry fat around our body) are particularly dependent on vitamin C for protection. Weak immune function, including susceptibility to colds and other infections, can be a telltale sign of vitamin C deficiency. Since the lining of our respiratory tract also depends heavily on vitamin C for protection, respiratory infection and other lung-related conditions can also be symptomatic of vitamin C deficiency.

Talk to your doctor the next time you’re in our office to see if this vitamin is right for you.