Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
Plain-language research summary.
Detail
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Water-soluble antioxidant supporting immune function, collagen synthesis, and iron absorption.
Common Dietary Sources
- Citrus, berries, peppers, broccoli
How the Body Uses It
Functions as an electron donor antioxidant and enzyme cofactor (prolyl/lysyl hydroxylases) for collagen formation; supports leukocyte activity and non-heme iron absorption.
Supplement Origins
Synthesized as ascorbic acid or mineral ascorbates (e.g., sodium, calcium ascorbate).
Possible Uses
- Immune support during deficiency or high demand
- Skin and connective tissue support
- Iron absorption (with meals)
Long-Term Use
Generally safe; bowel tolerance limits dose; divide for GI comfort.
Dose Guidance
Studied
200–1000 mg/day; higher short-term per tolerance
Split doses improve absorption; take with food if sensitive.
Forms
Ascorbic acid
Standardization varies by product.
Sodium ascorbate
Standardization varies by product.
Calcium ascorbate (Ester-C®)
Standardization varies by product.
Delivery
Coming soon.
Evidence & Studies
No studies linked yet.
References
References coming soon.
Safety & Cautions
Cautions
- GI upset/loose stool at high doses
- Kidney stone history—discuss with clinician
Contraindications
No explicit contraindications listed.
Interactions
- May affect absorption of some meds when taken together; separate by 2+ hours