Is ascorbic acid harmful in large quantities. About the benefits of ascorbic acid


Vitamins help to strengthen the immune system, to become healthier and more resilient to a person. One of the most popular and familiar to us from childhood is vitamin C. We suggest finding out how useful ascorbic acid is and why ascorbic acid for colds is considered indispensable.

Ascorbic acid - what is it?

Many since school years know that ascorbic acid is related to glucose organic compound, which is one of the main substances in the diet, necessary for the normal operation of bone and connective tissue. It is designed to perform the biological functions of a reducing agent, as well as a coenzyme of certain metabolic processes and is an antioxidant.

What is ascorbic acid?

Even children know that there is a lot of vitamin C in lemons. In addition, ascorbic acid is contained in the products:

  • citrus fruits (lemons, oranges);
  • kiwi;
  • black currant;
  • dog rose;
  • tomato;
  • onions;
  • red pepper;
  • leafy vegetables (cabbage, lettuce, broccoli);
  • the kidneys;
  • the liver;
  • potato


Ascorbic acid - benefit and harm

When there is not enough vitamin C in the body, the following symptoms occur:

  • pale skin;
  • weakening of the immune system;
  • prolonged wound tightening;
  • bleeding gums and unstable teeth;
  • general malaise;
  • anxiety and poor sleep;
  • pain in the lower limbs.

Prevent the occurrence of all these symptoms, or they can be eliminated by adding the necessary amount of an important vitamin to your diet. So you can answer the question of what gives ascorbic acid - strengthens the immune system, reduces anxiety, makes sleep really strong, healthy, eliminates pain in the lower extremities, bleeding gums. However, an overdose of vitamin C can have a detrimental effect on the human body.

Ascorbic Acid - Use

Not all of us understand why ascorbic acid is needed. It has the following effects on the body:

  1. Restoring effect. Vitamin C takes an active action in the formation of collagen fibers, heals wounds and various injuries on the body.
  2. Very strong antioxidant. Ascorbic acid is able to normalize the redox processes in the human body and fight radicals, clean the blood vessels.
  3. Takes part in blood formation processes. Ascorbic acid is very useful in the presence of anemia.
  4. Restorative action. Vitamin C in the body is capable of, and therefore is a very good prophylactic agent that helps with colds, flu.
  5. Takes part in the metabolism. Thanks to this substance, the effect of tocopherol and ubiquinone is enhanced.


Ascorbic acid - harm

Although vitamin C has a lot useful properties, with its uncontrolled use can harm the human body. It is necessary to refuse to use or with care it is necessary to use one of the most popular vitamins:

  1. Anyone who has an allergy to ascorbic acid.
  2. Suffering from gastrointestinal diseases (gastritis, ulcers).
  3. Pregnant women. With excessive use ascorbic acid  may be broken.

An overdose of vitamin C has the following symptoms:

  • diarrhea;
  • abdominal pain;
  • convulsions;
  • stomach upset.

Daily dose of ascorbic acid

It is considered that the norm of ascorbic acid per day is from 0.05 g to 100 mg. However, during high loads, heavy physical labor, mental and emotional stress, infectious diseases, it increases during pregnancy. So for the prevention of the recommended dose:

  1. For adults - 50-100 mg daily.
  2. For children over 5 years old - 50 mg.

For treatment purposes, these doses are provided:

  1. An adult - 50-100 mg three or five times a day after eating.
  2. Children with a shortage of vitamin C appoint 0.5-0.1 g per dose. It repeats twice or thrice a day.

Doctors prescribe such maximum doses of vitamin C:

  1. Adults - one time not more than 200 mg per day, no more than 500 mg per day.
  2. Children up to six months - 30 mg per day, children from six months to a year - no more than 35 mg, children from 1 year to three years - 40 mg, and children from 4 years and up to 10 - 45 mg. Children aged 11 to 14 years - 50 mg per day.


How to take ascorbic acid?

To get the maximum benefit, it is important to know what is useful ascorbic acid and how to drink ascorbic acid. In order to prevent diseases, vitamin C is consumed in winter and spring, when the body cannot get enough of the necessary useful material. During the treatment of beriberi, adults are recommended to take from 50 to 100 mg three to five times a day, and for children no more than three times.

It is recommended to use ascorbic for two weeks. Expecting baby women should take vitamin C after consulting a doctor. To avoid getting used to the drug, it must be applied according to a special scheme. In the first two weeks, use a dosage of not more than 300 mg daily, which must be divided into two doses. After that, the dosage is reduced to 100 mg.

Ascorbic acid in cosmetology

Many modern women of fashion are interested in why ascorbic acid is needed in cosmetology. Experts in the field of beauty assure that skin rich in vitamins takes in much better nutrients of various cosmetic means - lotions, creams, and also lends itself very well to the popular peeling procedure. However, you can get the maximum effect from the use of ascorbic acid, adhering to the recommendations of experts:

  1. Excellent effect is obtained by combining ascorbic acid with retinol, tocopherol.
  2. Useful are masks with ascorbic acid and fruits, vegetables. This combination is excellent as a remedy for wrinkles and age spots.
  3. No need to combine vitamin C and glucose. Otherwise, you can provoke allergies and rashes on the skin.
  4. In the case when the skin is injured, it is necessary to avoid cosmetic procedures using ascorbic acid.
  5. Do not apply cosmetics to the skin around the eyes.
  6. Beauticians do not advise to combine the ingredients in metal utensils, because when touched with metal, vitamin C may be destroyed.
  7. Do not store ascorbic acid in refrigerators.
  8. Apply a mask or cream on the face should be in the evening.

Ascorbic Acid for Face

All women who dream of being beautiful and young for a long time should know how useful ascorbic acid is for their skin. Cosmetics with the addition of vitamin C must be applied to cleansed skin. The simplest version of the use of ascorbic acid is usual rubbing of the face with a sponge moistened with liquid vitamin. Do this procedure twice a week shortly before bedtime before applying. An effective remedy will be a mask with ascorbic acid for the face.

Mask with ascorbic acid and vitamin A.

Ingredients:

  • vitamin A - 1/3 ampoules;
  • ascorbic acid - 4 tablets;
  • mineral water - 1-2 st. l

Preparation and use

  1. Crushed vitamin C tablets are diluted in vitamin A.
  2. When the fluid is not enough, add mineral water.
  3. In terms of density, the mask ideally resembles thick cream.
  4. Mask must be applied to the face and leave for 20 or 30 minutes.
  5. After the time the agent should be washed off with warm water.

Hair Ascorbic Acid

Sometimes vitamin C is used to make curls beautiful and healthy. It is important to remember that in its pure form ascorbic acid is not used. So for hair that is prone to greasy hair, in addition to vitamin, egg, brandy and honey are added to the mask, and for dry curls, kefir, burdock and castor oil should be added to this cosmetic. It is important to remember that ascorbic acid is able to wash off the black paint, and therefore, those wishing to preserve their hair color should refrain from using it.

Using ascorbic acid is not recommended for anyone who is allergic to it. Beauticians warn not to overdo it with the use of vitamin C, because with frequent and incorrect use, it can overdry curls. Vitamin masks should be applied on barely moist clean hairto allow vitamin C to be absorbed well. Experts in the field of beauty do not advise to dry curls with a hair dryer after applying the mask Ascorbic acid is very effective for lightening hair.

Shampoo with ascorbic acid

Ingredients:

  • powdered ascorbic acid - 1 sachet;
  • cooled boiled water - 1 cup.

Preparation and use

  1. Stir the powder in water until completely dissolved.
  2. Blot cotton swab in liquid.
  3. Apply the liquid over the entire length of the hair.

Ascorbic acid for weight loss

Those who want to find a slim figure sometimes wonder if using ascorbic acid can help get rid of extra pounds. Experts talk about the many benefits of the popular vitamin, but not a word about its ability to burn fat. So ascorbic acid can be taken as a regular means to maintain health, immunity and improve well-being. However, vitamins cannot eliminate the result of a sedentary lifestyle and malnutrition. Therefore, you need to consult with your doctor and drink vitamin courses.

Ascorbic acid in bodybuilding

Ascorbic acid is very useful for athletes. With its help, the immunity is increased, and heavy intensive workouts and recovery after them are more easily tolerated. In addition, the vitamin has a beneficial effect on the formation of collagen, necessary for the growth and regeneration of tissue cells. - A strong stimulant of anabolic processes that helps better protein absorption and muscle mass growth. ascorbic acid increases testosterone levels. In bodybuilding, vitamin C is consumed before workouts to protect muscle tissue and before drying the body.

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is probably the most studied, well-known and commonly used food additive in the world. In addition, it is safe, cheap and affordable. Vitamin C is soluble in water, its main function in the body, like fat-soluble vitamin E, is to work as an antioxidant.

Ascorbic acid is necessary for the biosynthesis of certain enzymes of the body, and in combination with garlic, vitamin C is useful for increasing the level of nitric oxide and blood flow.

ASCORBIC ACID: USE FOR MEN

  1. Frequency of intercourse

A study on healthy young men showed that 3 g of vitamin C per day significantly increase the frequency of sexual acts. The authors of the experiment noted that vitamin C improves “catecholaminergic activity, reduces stress reactivity, anxiety and the elimination of prolactin, improves vascular function and increases the release of oxytocin” - the hormone of embrace and affection. All this can improve potency, attraction and satisfaction.

Several studies have shown that vitamin C intake correlates with improved cognitive function and neuroprotection. However, in some other experiments, this relationship has not been identified. However, most observations show that there is still some benefit in supplementing vitamin C with the brain.

  1. Blood flow, nitrous oxide and erection

There is evidence that vitamin C can significantly help men struggling with endothelial and erectile dysfunction.

  1. Weight loss

The researchers found that “vitamin C status is inversely proportional to body weight. Men with adequate vitamin C content oxidize 30% more fat during moderate exercise than people with low levels of ascorbic acid. Thus, men with low levels of vitamin C in the body can be more resistant to fat loss. " This statement works when the content of vitamin C in the body is really low. Take mega-doses of ascorbic slimming, with a normal level of vit. C in the blood, ineffective.

  1.   and stress reduction

Many experiments carried out in humans and animals have proven that vitamin C is effective for stress. In this case, dosages of about 1-3 grams were used.

Vitamin C protects collagen - a key anti-aging component important for skin and appearance. So far there is not a single study that would show that oral intake of vitamin C reduces wrinkles and sagging skin. However, it is likely that vitamin C does reduce or at least protect the skin from wrinkles on a small scale. Researchers also recently discovered that vitamin C protects the DNA of skin cells through stimulation of fibroblasts, they believe that this will actually help to heal the skin. In addition, it is known that vitamin C can reduce wrinkles when applied topically.

  1. Immunity

Ascorbic acid has immunity enhancing properties. Most experts believe that vitamin C actually reduces the symptoms of cold and flu. The worst thing about colds and flu is that they last a week or two and are accompanied by unpleasant symptoms. Vitamin C, apparently, helps to largely deal with these symptoms, so it can be categorized as “painkillers”, as it makes the cold or flu more easily tolerated.

  1. Mood

The above study and several others also found that vitamin C improves mood and reduces depression.

  1. H. pylori

A large percentage of people are infected with Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium that often leads to gastritis and stomach cancer. An experiment showed that taking vitamin C eliminated Helicobacter pylori in a third of infected patients. Daily they were given 5 grams of ascorbinka.

  1. Lead

Megadoses of vitamin C significantly reduce the initial levels of lead, according to scientists. For example, one of the experiments on smokers showed that 1 gram of vitamin C taken daily reduces the level of lead by 80%.

  1. Inflammation

There is much evidence that vitamin C can reduce inflammation, especially in men with an increased risk of it. One of the clearest examples was a study conducted in 2009, which showed that CRP (CRP, C-reactive protein) can be reduced by 25% in men (and women) at its level\u003e 1.0 mg / l. These results were achieved when taking 1 gram of vitamin C per day.

  1. Homocysteine

Even normal levels of homocysteine ​​(amino acid) can lower nitric oxide and increase the risk of erectile dysfunction and heart disease in men. Vitamin C protects against the oxidation of LDL (low density lipoprotein), which may increase the risk of developing atherosclerotic plaques.

As the most used vitamin in the world, it affects male testosterone levels.

In an in vitro study (in vitro), it was found that vitamin C is able to restore damaged testosterone molecules by up to 58%. In a similar study, vitamin C was able to increase testosterone levels in Leydig cells in the testicles. Several animal experiments have shown that vitamin C protects testicular cells from oxidative stressors and, thus, maintains testosterone levels. Similar protective effects have been observed in humans.

Ascorbic acid really protects testosterone molecules from oxidative damage, but can it increase testosterone levels in healthy gonads?

Studies in rodents and humans have shown that vitamin C significantly increases the quality, volume of sperm and sperm motility. For this reason, ascorbic acid is useful for men when planning pregnancy. However, the only two studies in humans that studied the direct effects of vitamin C on testosterone levels did not show a significant increase in T after the addition of ascorbic acid.

Vitamin C is also known for its effect of reducing cortisol (stress hormone). This in turn should have a positive effect on testosterone, creating a more anabolic environment in the body.

Does vitamin C increase testosterone levels?

Not directly, additional reception  Ascorbic acid really protects testosterone molecules from oxidative damage during stress. Therefore, most men can benefit from vitamin C supplements, because of the modern diet with processed foods, environmental toxins, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle, most men produce oxidative stress in the testes.

Who is helpful in taking vitamin C supplements?

Almost every man who wants to protect his testes from oxidative damage. Also, if a person is exposed to frequent stress, smokes, takes alcohol, then an increase in the consumption of ascorbic acid (and other antioxidants) will be appropriate to protect testosterone molecules from cellular damage.

Another group of people who can benefit from supplemental intake of vitamin C are men who actively train. Ascorbic acid helps suppress the increase in cortisol caused by exercise and, therefore, improves the ratio of testosterone to cortisol in favor of anabolism.

However, if a man does not exercise and his diet and general health are in good condition, the addition of vitamin C will probably not affect his hormonal background.

DAILY NORM VITAMIN C FOR MEN

How much ascorbic acid should a man take?

The rate of vitamin C per day for men (without health problems or for those planning paternity) is about 60-100 mg daily. This is a small amount that can be obtained with food.

However, if you are under stress and / or exposed to compounds that cause oxidative stress in the body, a higher daily dose (1-5 g) of vitamin C can be used to protect Leydig cells from damage.

To reduce cortisol will need 1-3 grams of ascorbic acid.



What is the best form of vitamin C for a man's body?

You can take the usual cheap ascorbic acid supplements, which are sold in pharmacies, but more modern, harmless to the gastrointestinal tract and buffered or liposomal vitamine are effective. WITH.

How to take vitamin C: harm of ascorbic acid if taken improperly

3 rules for using ascorbing:

  1. Buffered Vitamin C Drink on an Empty Stomach

Regular intake of ordinary acidic ascorbine can upset the stomach, but now vitamin C has been released in other forms. The buffered form is softer, better absorbed and does not affect the stomach as much. Such bioavailable forms are commonly called Ester-C. You can also buy liposomal vitamin C, which is not destroyed and is absorbed several times better than ordinary ascorbic.

Why is it important to take on an empty stomach? The reason is that vitamin C can increase iron absorption. It is potentially dangerous and can increase the reserves of ferritin and iron, which is associated with various types of chronic diseases. Just as important, easily digestible forms of the vitamin should not irritate even an empty stomach.

  1. 500 mg, 2-3 times a day

Some experts believe that vitamin C is best taken several times during the day. In this case, its plasma levels remain constantly high. This can increase the level of nitric oxide and possibly the formation of collagen. Also, if a man combines vitamin C with garlic, he can get a much more noticeable increase in nitric oxide than when taking only one ascorbinka (it is important to take into account that this may decrease blood pressure).

Previously it was believed that taking dosages greater than 200 mg / day is useless, as this does not lead to a significant increase in the level of vit-in plasma. However, this was refuted in a study with liposomal vitamin C, the authors of which showed that this form of ascorbicles can be much better absorbed and stored in the body.

  1. Do not take vitamin C from fatty foods.

If a person takes vitamin C with food or shortly before a meal and at the same time what he eats, has more than 10% fat, vitamin C can increase the formation of nitrosamines. Nitrosamines are carcinogenic chemicals that exist, for example, in some types of processed meat. Ascorbic acid taken on an empty stomach or with low-fat food, on the contrary, destroys these carcinogenic substances.

IN WHAT MEN'S PRODUCT CONTAINS VITAMIN C CONTAINS

Many foods have a high content of vitamin C, below are 5 of them that are suitable for a diet that increases testosterone. These products are fruits containing fructose. Fructose protects liver cells and increases the rate of carbohydrate metabolism. It is the main sugar involved in the function of the reproductive system and sperm production. Fructose also also leaves more bioavailable free testosterone in the bloodstream. In addition, it enhances the metabolism.

  1. Squeezed orange juice

Orange juice is one of the best natural sources of vitamin C. A glass of freshly squeezed juice contains up to 108 mg of vitamin C, which is 120% of the daily value.

  1. A pineapple

A proteolytic enzyme called bromelain, found in pineapples, can maintain testosterone levels during intense training. Bromelain also destroys peptide chains that bind amino acids, improving protein digestion in the body. Pineapples are also rich in fructose.

100 grams of fresh pineapple pieces contain 47 mg of vitamin C, which is 52% of the daily requirement.

  1. Sweet potato

Batata is one of the best sources of carbohydrates in the diet to raise testosterone. It contains vitamins A and C. 100 grams of sweet potatoes give 19 mg of vitamin C (21% of the daily requirement).

  1. Mango

Mango is useful for men who want to increase metabolism and testosterone levels. They contain 27 mg (30% of the daily value) of vitamin C per 100 g.

Kiwi are a natural source of vitamin C. In one study, scientists found that kiwi juice, taken 1-2 hours before sleep, has a positive effect on subjective and objective indicators of sleep quality. It is also beneficial because quality sleep is associated with high levels of testosterone in men.

These products will help to get the daily rate of vitamin, but if you need a higher dosage (to increase the production of nitric oxide and testosterone levels), it is more effective to take supplements.

Ascorbic acid is a compound of organic nature, having related relations with such substance as glucose. Ascorbic acid is one of the main acid elements in the human body.

The functional abilities of ascorbic acid are aimed at reducing processes and establishing the work of metabolic processes.

The main active element in the composition of ascorbic acid is vitamin C, which is a necessary vitamin to support the body and immunity at a good level. Therefore, this acid is often called simply vitamin C. Ascorbic acid is often found in nature, it is found in many fruits and some vegetables.

Ascorbic acid in its properties is a white or light yellow powder that has an acidic taste. In addition, this type of acid is very soluble in liquids, giving a sour taste to the water in which it will be dissolved.

In 1932, when vitamin C was first found, enormous plans were laid on its share. But experiments have shown that using ascorbic acid can only support the human body and prevent many already clinical cases of various diseases.

In severe poisoning, ascorbic acid normalizes the processes associated with oxidation and restores the normal environment in the human body. In cases of poisoning, the dose of ascorbic acid can be up to 0.25 ml per 1 kg of weight.

Lack of vitamins during the seasons, as well as a reason for the use of ascorbic acid. It may be like drug, and containing vitamin C fruits and vegetables that need to be added to the daily menu. This will help strengthen the immune system and it is easier to postpone such a period.

Benefits of ascorbic acid

The benefits of ascorbic acid can be judged by the symptoms of its lack. A lack of proper amount of vitamin C can be noticed with the following symptoms:

  • Pallor of the skin;
  • Weakening of the immune system;
  • Increased wound tightening time;
  • Bleeding gums, unsteady teeth;
  • General malaise;
  • Restlessness and poor sleep;
  • Lower extremity pain (especially heels and feet).

The fact that these symptoms do not appear, and acts ascorbic acid. It will also be useful if available.

Contraindications

A quality drug of ascorbic acid in itself is safe. But this does not mean that you can eat packs of ascorbic acid. A number of contraindications to this drug still exist.

The basis of problems in the overdose of vitamin C, which is also not terrible, but it is only for healthy people, but for those who have stomach problems (gastritis, ulcer), the use of this amount of acid can cause a number of complications.

The drugs are not compatible with the intake of ascorbic acid

Ascorbic acid should not be used in the amount of drugs that contain large amounts of iron, caffeine, vitamin B12, folic acid. More complete and detailed information about compatibility is better to read in the abstract, it is in each package.

Should be aware before consuming ascorbic acid

The use of ascorbic acid depends on specific factors. First, you need a medical consultation, and second you need to buy ascorbic acid in pills or liquids in a large network of pharmacies, this is very important because fake drugs are increasingly found on the shelves.

Use this drug better after meals. Doses for prophylactic treatment of avitaminosis 50-100 mg per adult per day. For children, the rate of 25-75 mg. Of course, this dose depends on a person’s body weight and age. Larger doses are used for diseases during intensive drug treatment.

Everyone knows about the benefits of ascorbic acid - with a cold, we drink tea with lemon and cranberry juice or everyone's favorite ascorbic with glucose from the pharmacy. They talked about the antioxidant properties of ascorbinka later, but now everyone who cares about their health knows that it helps fight free radicals. On our website, we prefer to consider in detail the usefulness of certain vitamins and supplements. Let us now look at a well-known friend - why is she still needed?

Discovery of ascorbic acid

The discovery of ascorbic acid went hand in hand with the search for means capable of protecting against scurvy, a disease that claimed the lives of many researchers and seafarers. For the first time, a Russian pediatrician N. Lunin announced the presence of some substances necessary for life in 1881, and in 1911 the Polish biochemist, selecting these substances from products, called them vitamins. In 1922, N. Bessonov isolated from white cabbage a substance that cures scurvy. It was not supposed then that this is ascorbic acid. And only in the late twenties, Zilva singled it out in its pure form. For the discovery of the same ascorbike formula, the Nobel Prize was awarded to Saint-György, who named the substance ascorbic acid.

Its beneficial properties, in addition to the ability to cure scurvy (a disease that causes a lack of vitamin C), were discovered later and open to this day.

It must be said that at one time physicians were so keen on her that in a number of countries they strongly recommended using it in large quantities several times a day. Alas, a vitamin oversupply caused not less unpleasant diseases, so in the same countries a few years later, advertising for ascorbic acid was sharply reduced, and the doses were revised.

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Why do we need ascorbic acid

Interestingly, almost all living things, with the exception of man, apes, guinea pigs and pigs, produce ascorbic acid in the quantities they need themselves. And only people and animal exceptions need to receive this substance daily with food.

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One of the most important functions of a vitamin is a powerful oxidant that can fight free radicals. Ascorbic acid is involved in oxidative processes.

It is known that the maintenance of life requires energy, which is produced during oxidative processes occurring under the influence of oxygen. In the course of all these complex reactions, free radicals appear. They are produced every second, take part in oxidation and just as quickly decompose under the influence of a number of substances. If a failure occurs and free radicals become too much, they begin to attack and destroy tissues - the so-called oxidative stress develops, the outcome of which, as many modern researchers believe, are various diseases - cancer, disorders of the heart and blood vessels, atherosclerosis. Ascorbic acid does not allow an increase in the number of free radicals, thereby saving from many diseases and accelerated aging of the body.

To provoke an increase in free radicals can external factors - carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide and other gases, which are part of the exhaust gases of cars. In cities, therefore, the need of residents for ascorbic acid increases dramatically to neutralize free radicals.

Other functions of ascorbinka

Under the action of ascorbic acid synthesis of collagen proteins proceeds. Creating connective tissue is unthinkable without vitamin C. Accordingly, its deficiency leads to defects in connective tissue and damage to the blood vessels, heart, and all organs where connective tissue is present. Ascorbic accelerates due to this wound healing, the restoration of skin damage, is responsible for its elasticity and tone. That is why vitamin C is also called the beauty vitamin - with its chronic deficiency, wrinkles start to form early and sag the contours of the face. With a shortage of vitamin fractures grow together worse or do not grow together at all.

Vitamin C is responsible for transporting glucose to the cells. This ensures the correct energy metabolism of the body. With a vitamin deficiency in the first place there is a loss of strength, weakness, lack of energy.

Vitamin C is involved in the synthesis of steroid hormones and metabolism. A number of trace elements without it is assimilated incorrectly or in insufficient quantities. It promotes better absorption of iron and calcium. Lack of vitamin can provoke anemia or impaired calcium metabolism with all the ensuing consequences - disruption of the nervous system, the development of caries, osteoporosis.

Vitamin C strengthens the walls of blood vessels and increases their permeability.

Vitamin C has a positive effect on blood formation, accelerating the production of essential blood elements.

Vitamin C normalizes the synthesis and exchange of cholesterol in the body, so the risk of deposition of cholesterol plaques on the walls of blood vessels is reduced. Accordingly, the development of atherosclerosis is alienated. Thus, the introduction of ascorbic acid in food is the prevention of strokes and heart attacks.

Vitamin C enhances immunity. In combination with vitamins A and E, it dramatically improves resistance to diseases and activates the protective cells of the body. This helps not only to avoid seasonal colds. Improving the immune response protects against the development of cancer. Therefore, today ascorbic acid is prescribed by doctors as an adjuvant in various diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, as prevention of cancer. As - the elixir of youth and a cure for cancer - and ascorbic acid saves from the same.

Vitamin C normally improves the body's fight against mutated cells. But it is worth knowing that if a cancer tumor already exists, too high doses of the vitamin may, on the contrary, increase the resistance of cancer cells to radiation therapy. Therefore, the level of vitamin should be optimal, but not elevated.

Vitamin C improves the activity of the liver to neutralize toxic substances. In particular, it better removes mercury, lead, copper. That is why the introduction of ascorbic acid is indicated in cases of poisoning and in case of a hangover. You can simply take a few pills, and this will ease the condition.

Vitamin C helps the adrenal glands to work stably in producing anti-stress hormones. From here and its action strengthening at stresses.

In addition, ascorbic acid is involved in the synthesis of dopamine, adrenaline, norepinephrine. The normal level of these hormones is responsible for the proper response to stress and mood. That is why with a deficiency of vitamin C can develop depressive states - who do not know about spring fatigue and spring depression, caused just by vitamin deficiency. A lack of vitamin C can cause a decrease in mental alertness.

Recent studies have shown that vitamin C has a fat burning effect. This is all because he is involved in the synthesis of carnitine - a substance responsible for the oxidation of fats.

Is it only good?

At one time, ascorbic was so enthusiastic that they began to recommend it as a prophylactic drink in order to slow down the aging process in large doses. A significant role in this was played by Linus Pauling, who in the seventies advised to take from 500 mg to 3 g of ascorbic acid per day. He claimed that it would prolong life, and he himself drank vitamin C daily. Since Pauling lived 93 years, humanity unconditionally believed him. However, many centenarians have lived the same pharmaceutical preparationswhich makes the conclusion somewhat controversial.

At the same time, since the seventies, doctors have already gained a wealth of experience about an overdose of vitamin C. It turned out that in large doses it is not at all harmless. An excess of vitamin C violates the absorption of glucose, which leads to the development of pre-diabetes. In addition, its excess sharply increases the chance to earn stones in the kidneys and bladder due to the increase in the level of oxalic acid. And in children, higher doses of ascorbine can cause tooth decay and the destruction of enamel.

Signs of Ascorbic Acid Deficiency

The first signs include fatigue, a feeling of constant fatigue and a decrease in mood. Weakness and fatigue are combined with a long sleep, not bringing rest.

Also among the first signs include bleeding gums and the appearance of bruises on the body from a light blow, and even just from pressing on the skin. Joint pains that occur with vitamin C deficiency are in fact the result of the same bruises, only they are not visible to the eye.

Another number of characteristic symptoms of deficiency: hair loss, poor healing of wounds, irritability, more severe course of gastrointestinal disorders, increased susceptibility to colds.

First of all, the immune system and connective tissue suffer from deficiency. And only then the oxidative balance and the synthesis of hormones are disturbed.

Lack of ascorbic acid is quite common, especially in northern latitudes in winter. At this time, the percentage of fruits and vegetables in the diet is reduced, and the available supply of vitamins in vegetables is destroyed due to the principles of cooking. Alas, vitamin C is unstable, and when heated and under the action of sunlight is quickly destroyed. In cabbage after only three months of storage, only 30% of what it was remains. But if it is salted, then it will remain much more - 55%. Therefore, it is better to eat sauerkraut in winter - by the way, this has been the cultural tradition of Russian cuisine for many centuries.

How to take ascorbing

Increased doses of ascorbic acid are necessary for the body during illness, during stress, physical and mental overstrain, in adverse environmental conditions. But taking the vitamin is necessary.

It is mandatory for prophylactic purposes to take ascorbic acid from mid-autumn to summer - this protects against vitamin deficiency.

Doctors advise, if an increased dose of vitamin C is required for the treatment of vascular disorders, take it together with vitamin E in order to reduce the harmful effects of high doses of askorbinki. Also, one vitamin C, according to research, is not enough - it should be taken in combination with vitamin R. Only then does vitamin C work in full force. Vitamin P is also called quartcetin, or citrine. The best drug is askorutin. The derivative of quartzetine, which is part of the capilar, is 10 times weaker, but it costs much more.

Practicing physicians and theoretical scientists who are not dependent on pharmaceutical companies argue that with a lack of vitamin C, synthetic drugs from the pharmacy will not bring any benefit. Without flavonoids - plant components - synthetic ascorbic acid is rapidly oxidized in the body and is excreted in the form of oxalic acid, not having any benefit, but affecting the salt metabolism is not for the better. It is the flavonoids that improve blood permeability through the smallest capillaries and increase the effect of the natural ascorbic acid contained in vegetables and fruits. We have already written about flavonoids, what is and what is their use. To maintain the body tone and obtain the maximum effect, it is necessary to use ascorbic acid in its natural state in vegetables and fruits. Then overdose does not threaten.

Lemons and all citrus fruits, kiwi, cabbage, wild rose, red currant, sauerkraut are considered to be the champions in the content of ascorbinka.

Ascorbic acid is not a panacea, but the most important substance, thanks to which our body functions correctly. And if you keep its balance, then, indeed, you can live happily ever after!