Why Take a Vitamin C Supplement And What Are The Benefits?

Vitamin C is our major water soluble antioxidant vitamin. Let’s take a look at one “overview” study on C and cancer.

Dr. Gladys Block, an epidemiologist at the University of California at Berkeley and formerly with the National Cancer Institute, did a survey and summary of 90 valid studies of C and cancer. This was not just one study; this was a conclusion and consensus of 90 valid studies. This is what she said, “These studies suggest tat a high vitamin C intake can significantly reduce the risk of cancers of oral cavity, esophagus, digestive tract, cervix, rectum, breast and lung.” Concerning breast cancer she said, “Vitamin C intake had the most consistent and statistically significant inverse association with breast cancer risk.”

To get these benefits and others associated with cancer and heart disease, you must consume around 1000-5000 mg a day. This is very unlikely to occur if you eat the average American diet. Vitamin C is a very fragile vitamin. Oxygen destroys C. cutting up C-containing vegetables and fruits hours before use can greatly reduce the vitamin C content as can cooking. When it comes to vitamin C, supplements are strongly suggested.

Other actions of vitamin C:

Absolutely essential for smokers and those around them

Greatly increases the immune response

Aids the absorption of iron in our diets

Helps restore stress hormones.

The more stress you have, the more C you need

Forms collagen, a “glue” that holds cells together, vital to prevent gum disease

Aids in healing of wounds

Fights toxic chemicals like nitrates, nitrites, ozone and nitrogen dioxide

Decreases the time you have a cold and the severity of the symptoms

Recharges vitamin E as E is depleted

Can protect against heart disease by limiting the oxidation of LDL, “bad” cholesterol