A water-soluble nutrient also known as ascorbic acid, vitamin C was originally isolated as a compound in 1928. However, its therapeutic effects have known for much longer. Most notably, the traditional nickname for British sailors as early as the 1800s was “limey”. This was because of the routine distribution of limes to sailors who were long-term at sea. Limes, a rich source of vitamin C, were found to be useful in the prevention of scurvy outbreaks. Scurvy is a disease of severe and chronic vitamin C deficiency, which had been prevalent for centuries before the discovery. While most mammals can synthesise their own forms of vitamin C, for humans it is essential to source this vital nutrient from food. Vitamin C is both heat and time sensitive so fresh dietary forms are always preferrable.
The adrenal glands produce hormones that regulate a healthy stress response, support the immune system, maintain blood pressure, and regulate the metabolism. The adrenal glands contain the greatest concentration of vitamin C within the body, and require the nutrient to produce cortisol, our primary stress hormone. During peak times of stress, the body’s requirement for vitamin C may increase as existing reservoirs are utilised to respond and recover from the increased demands.
Vitamin C is important in maintaining a healthy immune response. Vitamin C can stimulate the production and functions of white blood cells and antibodies, which help our body to fight off germs. Its also involved in the production of collagen, which keeps our skin supple and healthy.
The recommended daily intake of vitamin C is 45 mg for men and women, though much higher doses are used therapeutically with no significant adverse effects.
Food sources of vitamin C include aloe vera juice, black currant, broccoli, Brussel sprouts, cabbage, citrus, guava, kiwi, oranges, lemons, limes, lychees, papaya, parsley, pawpaw, pineapple, potatoes, red chilli, red capsicum, rosehips, sprouts, spinach, strawberries, sweet potatoes, tangerines, tomatoes.
Key Indications:
As an antioxidant and reduce free radical formation within the body
To reduce the occurrence of mild or moderate allergy symptoms
To promote healthy minor wound healing and skin abrasions
To maintain a healthy immune response and recovery
To maintain a healthy immune system
For healthy teeth, bone and joint cartilage growth
Assists in maintaining general health and wellbeing
To enhance the absorption of other nutrients, including iron
To promote healing of bruises
To support healthy collagen and connective tissue formation
For healthy skin elasticity and regeneration
To help maintain healthy vitamin C levels within the body
To reduce the severity and length of a viral infection or common cold
