L-Ascorbic acid, also known as Vitamin C, is a water-soluble vitamin essential for various bodily functions. Synthetically produced, it acts as a potent antioxidant, supports the immune system, is cru...
L-Ascorbic acid, also known as Vitamin C, is a water-soluble vitamin essential for various bodily functions. Synthetically produced, it acts as a potent antioxidant, supports the immune system, is crucial for collagen synthesis, and enhances iron absorption. Common dosages range from 500-1000mg daily. While generally safe, high doses can lead to gastrointestinal upset and may increase the risk of kidney stones or iron overload in susceptible individuals.
Key Information
Outside Body Harmful Score
Common Dosage
500-1000mg daily
Source Type
synthetic
Production Process
L-Ascorbic acid is typically synthesized industrially through a multi-stage process, most commonly the Reichstein process or its variations. This involves fermentation of glucose to sorbitol, followed by oxidation and chemical conversions to yield L-ascorbic acid.
Use Type
Outside BodyPotential Benefits
Antioxidant protection defends the body against free radical damage, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and promoting overall cellular health. This is achieved by neutralizing unstable molecules that cause oxidative stress and cellular damage.
Zinc supports the immune system by enhancing immune cell activity, reducing infection risk, and modulating inflammatory responses. Supplementation is particularly beneficial for individuals with zinc deficiencies, helping to restore optimal zinc levels and bolster immune response.
Collagen synthesis is the body's natural process of producing collagen, a structural protein crucial for skin, hair, nails, joints, and tissue repair. Adequate synthesis supports skin integrity, hair/nail growth, joint health, and wound healing.
Ceruloplasmin, a copper-containing enzyme, oxidizes ferrous iron to ferric iron, which is essential for iron transport via transferrin and cellular iron uptake. This process ensures adequate iron availability for oxygen transport and other vital bodily functions.
Possible Side Effects
Gastrointestinal upset involves a variety of digestive symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. It can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and may indicate an underlying condition if persistent.
Kidney stones are hard mineral deposits forming in the kidneys, causing pain and potentially blocking urine flow. They are often caused by a combination of dietary, environmental, and genetic factors.
High doses of L-ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) can worsen iron overload in individuals with hemochromatosis by increasing iron absorption, leading to potential organ damage.
Scientific Evidence
National Institutes of Health (NIH) Office of Dietary Supplements - Vitamin C Fact Sheet; Linus Pauling Institute - Micronutrient Information Center - Vitamin C; Carr, A. C., & Maggini, S. (2017). Vitamin C and Immune Function. Nutrients, 9(11), 1211.
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