VITAMIN C
ASCORBIC ACID

  • Dosing
    		•
  • Therapeutic Uses
    		•
  • Sources
    		•
  • High-Risk Groups
    		•
  • Deficiency Consequences
    		•
  • Toxicity/Side Effects
    		•
  • Contraindications
    		•
  • Additional Information
    		•
  • Drug Interactions
    		•


    United States Recommended Dietary Allowances
    Men - 50 - 60 mg/day, Women - 50 - 60 mg/day, Pregnant women - 70 mg/day
    Nursing mothers - 90 - 95 mg/day, Children - 40 - 45 mg/day, Infants - 30 - 35 mg/day







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    Therapeutic Uses
    Used in the prevention and treatment of scurvy. It has been advocated for the prevention of the common cold, as an antioxidant, treatment of asthma, atherosclerosis, wound healing, schizophrenia and treatment of cancer. May be useful as a urinary acidifier.






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    Sources
    Kiwi, broccoli, brussels sprouts, oranges, green pepper, grapefruit, strawberries, cabbage, asparagus, tomatoes, potatoes, pineapple, spinach, banana.







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    High-Risk Groups
    Smokers, chronic aspirin users, surgical and severely wounded, high physical and emotional stress, iron deficient anemia, elderly, febrile states, chronic illness and infection, premature and immature infants, burns, delayed fracture and wound healing.






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    Deficiency Consequences
    Vitamin C deficiency is known as scurvy. Symptoms of scurvy reflect the breakdown of collagen. It is characterized by petechial hemorrhages (multiple small red dots seen under the skin), impaired wound healing, inflamed (gingivitis) and bleeding gums, degenerative changes in the capillaries, bone and connective tissues, joint pain, edema, dry skin, weakness, muscle cramps, fatigue, depression and loss of appetite. In mild cases, may see faulty bone and tooth development, gingivitis,
    bleeding gums and loosened teeth.



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    Toxicity/Side Effects
    Relatively non-toxic since excesses are excreted in the urine. Kidney stones are possible in those already prone, diarrhea, possible link with dental erosion with
    the chewable form due to acid.






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    Contraindications
    None indicated.







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    Additional Information/Precautions
    Vitamin C is water soluble, and sensitive to air and heat. It is well absorbed and maximum absorption is obtained from multiple small doses taken throughout the day. Excesses are excreted in urine. It functions in collagen synthesis, hormone and neurotransmitter synthesis. It is a useful antioxidant that protects tissues from free-radical damage. It facilitates iron absorption. It also strengthens blood vessel walls. In general it promotes healing, aids in the healing of bruises, helps in the repair of fractures, prevents bleeding gums.




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    Drug Interactions
    Contraceptives and estrogen - serum levels of estrogen are increased, possibly resulting in adverse reactions due to excess estrogen. Warfin (Coumadin) - anticoagulant activity may be decreased. Doses of Vitamin C larger that 500 mg may result in a false-negative urine glucose levels. Certain stool occult blood tests (amine dependent),
    may cause false-negative results, therefore supplemental Vitamin C
    should be avoided 48-72 hours before.




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    References
    1. Chiropractic Nutritional Reference 1987 Edition, James M. Gerber, DC
    2. Facts and Comparisons Drug Information, Updated Monthly, Loose-leaf drug information service
    3. Understanding Vitamins and Minerals, by the editors of Prevention Magazine, 1984