Vitamin C, which is also known as ascorbic acid, is a water soluble white
powder. It was shown, in 1922, to be the substance that cures scurvy. In the late
eighteenth century English sailors carried limes on long voyages to ward off scurvy, which
led to them being given the nickname limeys.
What does it do for your body?
Vitamin C is involved in over 300 biological processes in the body.
COLLAGEN - Vitamin C is necessary for the manufacture of collagen, the
protein which forms the basis of connective tissue. The most abundant tissue in the body,
connective tissue acts as a cementing substance between cells. It helps support and
protect blood vessels, bones, joints, organs and muscles and forms a sizeable proportion
of skin, tendons, the cornea of the eye, ligaments, cartilage, teeth and bone. Collagen
forms a protective barrier and promotes healing of wounds, fractures and bruises.
ANTIOXIDANT - Vitamin C is the bodys most powerful water soluble
antioxidant and plays a vital role in protecting the body against oxidative damage. It
neutralizes potentially harmful reactions in the watery parts of the body such as the
blood and the fluid inside and surrounding cells. It helps protect LDL cholesterol against
free radical damage. This antioxidant action helps to protect the health of the heart and
an array of other body tissues.
HORMONES - Vitamin C is important in the synthesis of hormones by the
adrenal glands.
CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM - Vitamin C plays a role in cholesterol production
in the liver and in the conversion of cholesterol to bile acids for excretion. It supports
normal total blood cholesterol and LDL cholesterol and raises beneficial HDL cholesterol.
Vitamin C also supports normal circulation, therefore supporting the health of the heart.
Vitamin C also helps control healthy blood pressure.
NERVOUS SYSTEM - Vitamin C plays a role in the conversion of tryptophan to
serotonin, a neurotransmitter with many vital functions.
Absorption: Body tissue stores of vitamin C are small and easily
saturated, with any excess excreted in two to three hours.
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