Why Do We Need Vitamin C?

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) is a water-soluble, antioxidant vitamin. It is important in forming collagen, a protein that gives structure to bones, cartilage, muscle, and blood vessels. Vitamin C also aids in the absorption of iron, and helps maintain capillaries, bones, and teeth.

Signs & Symptoms of Vitamin C Deficiency:
Bleeding gums
Easy bruising
Delayed or poor wound healing (¯ phagocytosis and collagen formation).
Hyperkeratotic papules on skin (buttocks and calves)
Gall stones.
Anemia (hemolytic or Fe)
Infertility.
Chronic infection (URI)
Elevated histamine.
Joint and muscle pain
Weight loss.

Vitamin C has been shown to be beneficial to the following conditions:
Cancer
Heart disease
Asthma.
Bone disease
Diseases of immuno suppression.

Prescription Drugs That Deplete Vitamin C:
Aspirin
Furosemide (diuretics).
BCP & hormone therapy
Corticosteroids.

Laboratory Testing for Vitamin C:
No reliable functional assay available
Plasma and Leukocyte tests are most commonly used for vitamin C status.  These tests are unreliable (static).

Vitamin C Food Sources:
High:
Acerola cherry, broccoli, brussel sprouts, collards, guava, rose hips, black currant.
oderate:
Cabbage, spinach, citrus fruits, strawberries, cauliflower, chives.