- Home
- How does Vitamin C Work?
How does Vitamin C Work?
Vitamin C’s Roles and Functions
The importance of vitamin C in hemostasis and wound-healing was first realized more than 260 years ago when it was found to be a cure for scurvy, a disease characterized by spontaneous bleeding, anemia, and gum ulceration.
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is an essential nutrient that plays several roles in the human body. Here are some of the functions and benefits of vitamin C:
- Immune System Support: Vitamin C is well-known for its ability to boost the immune system. It helps white blood cells function properly and protect the body from infections.
- Antioxidant: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to aging and diseases like cancer, heart disease, and arthritis.
- Collagen Formation: Vitamin C plays a crucial role in the formation of collagen, a protein that is essential for the health of skin, bones, and other connective tissues.
- Iron Absorption: Vitamin C helps the body absorb iron from plant-based foods, such as beans, spinach, and fortified cereals.
- Wound Healing: Vitamin C helps the body produce new tissue, which is important for wound healing.
- Mood Regulation: Vitamin C is involved in the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, which can help regulate mood.
- Cardiovascular Health: Vitamin C has been shown to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
The daily recommended intake of vitamin C for adults is 75 to 90 milligrams per day, but higher amounts may be recommended for people with certain conditions or those who smoke or are under stress. It is found in many fruits and vegetables, including citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwi, bell peppers, broccoli, and spinach.
In addition to its critical role in collagen synthesis, vitamin C, as one of the most powerful natural antioxidants, is also known to exhibit anti-parasitic, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, antihistamine, anti-depressant, anti-inflammatory, and antibiotic properties, as well as possess analgesic functions.
In addition, High Dose Vitamin C, as a pro-oxidant intravenous therapy, has been shown to selectively target and effectively kill cancer cells and mitigate negative side effects of chemotherapy and radiation.
What is the difference between Sodium Ascorbate Vitamin C and Ascorbic Acid Vitamin C?
Differences and Benefits of Sodium Ascorbate
Sodium ascorbate and ascorbic acid are both forms of Vitamin C, but they differ in their chemical composition and properties.
Ascorbic acid is a water-soluble vitamin and is an organic acid and has a low pH, which makes it acidic. Ascorbic acid is easily oxidized and can degrade quickly when exposed to air, heat, or light.
On the other hand, sodium ascorbate is a buffered form of Vitamin C, which means it has been combined with sodium to create a less acidic, more neutral form of Vitamin C. This makes sodium ascorbate less likely to cause stomach irritation or peripheral vein sclerosis than ascorbic acid. Sodium ascorbate is also more stable and less prone to oxidation than ascorbic acid.
One advantage of sodium ascorbate vs ascorbic acid is that it is pH neutral, making it easier on the stomach for people with sensitive digestive systems, and due its unique molecular structure it is better absorbed by the body.
Furthermore, because of these highly important differences, sodium ascorbate provides greater gut and vein tolerability, which translates to optimal higher dosing, increased patient compliance and optimal clinical results.
Because of these differences in properties, sodium ascorbate is often used as a food additive to preserve the freshness and color of foods.
Bioavailability and Benefits of Sodium in Sodium Ascorbate
Sodium ascorbate is a form of Vitamin C that contains both Vitamin C and sodium. The body has specific mechanisms to absorb and transport Vitamin C into cells, which involve specialized proteins called sodium-dependent Vitamin C transporters (SVCT1 and SVCT2).
When sodium ascorbate is ingested, the sodium component is recognized by these transporters and is used to help transport the Vitamin C into cells more efficiently. This process is known as “harnessing the cell’s intrinsic sodium-dependent Vitamin C transporter mechanisms.”
Once inside the cell, the Vitamin C is converted to its active form, ascorbate ion, which helps to improve the intracellular concentration of this important nutrient. Ascorbate ion is involved in a variety of cellular processes, including collagen synthesis, antioxidant defense, and immune function.
Overall, the use of sodium ascorbate as a source of Vitamin C can help to optimize the body’s natural transport and absorption mechanisms, leading to improved intracellular concentrations of this essential nutrient.
In summary, sodium ascorbate and ascorbic acid differ in their chemical composition, pH level, bioavailability, tolerability absorption, and stability.
Why Medical Grade Nutraceuticals, Purity and Potency Matters?
Purer medical grade dietary supplements are often considered better than store-bought supplements for several reasons:
- Quality Control: Medical grade supplements are subject to more rigorous quality control standards and testing than supplements sold in stores. This ensures that the supplements are free of contaminants, meet label claims, and are safe for consumption.
- Higher Potency: Medical grade supplements are often formulated to be more potent and effective than store-bought supplements. This is because they contain higher quality ingredients in their most bioavailable and absorbable form.
- Custom Formulations: Medical grade supplements are often formulated to address specific health concerns and are designed to meet the unique needs of individual patients. This is in contrast to store-bought supplements, which are typically one-size-fits-all and not personalized.
- Physician Oversight: Medical grade supplements are often recommended by healthcare professionals who have extensive knowledge of the patient’s medical history, lifestyle, and specific nutritional needs. This ensures that the supplements are appropriate for the patient and are being used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Overall, purer medical grade dietary supplements are often considered better than store-bought supplements because they are subject to more rigorous quality control standards, are often more potent and effective, can be custom-formulated to meet specific needs, and are recommended by healthcare professionals with specialized knowledge and expertise.
Why Is Powdered Sodium Ascorbate Vitamin C Better?
Over the counter vitamin C comes in many forms, such as pills, capsules, powders, or liposomes encapsulated.
Medical grade powdered pure sodium ascorbate is a highly concentrated and most potent form of Vitamin C that is easily absorbed by the body. It is relatively inexpensive and can be added to a variety of foods and drinks for easy consumption.
Additionally, powdered sodium ascorbate does not contain any added fats, oils, or additives, making it a good choice for people who are watching their fat intake.
Most importantly, powdered sodium ascorbate is flavor free and offers increased bioavailability, and offers a broad spectrum of applications and routes of administration, from ingestion, inhalation, rinses, solutions, nebulization, and daily oral care options.
Does Liposomal Vitamin C make sense?
One of the most commonly asked questions is regarding the efficacy of the liposomal form of Vitamin C.
Does Liposomal Vitamin C Provide Increased Bioavailability?
Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin, which means it dissolves in water and is easily absorbed by the body. In contrast, fat-soluble vitamins are typically encapsulated in liposomes to protect them from degradation in the digestive system and enhance their absorption by the body.
Liposomal Vitamin C is a form of Vitamin C that is encapsulated in liposomes, which are tiny bubbles made from phospholipids. Liposomal technology makes sense with fat soluble vitamins such as vitamin D, E, and K, since these liposomes may protect the molecules from being broken down in the digestive system, allowing for better absorption and utilization by the body.
While some companies may market liposomal vitamin C as a way to improve its bioavailability, the evidence supporting this claim is limited. Some studies have suggested that liposomal vitamin C may increase blood levels of the vitamin compared to standard vitamin C supplements. However, other studies have shown no significant difference between liposomal vitamin C and other forms of vitamin C in terms of bioavailability or health benefits.
Moreover, many leading scientists are of the opinion that combining water soluble vitamins in a liposomal technology adds no benefits. Furthermore, to date, there has not been any independent peer-reviewed scientific publications to validate any claims of increased benefits of liposomal vitamin C.
Dr. Paul Marik, MD, a leading expert on Vitamin C and Sepsis, stated that “Vitamin C is a water-soluble molecule absorbed by saturable vitamin C transporters in the GUT. The concept that encapsulating vitamin C in a liposome would somehow increase absorption is absurd. This has been shown by clinical studies which demonstrate that the absorption curve is exactly the same when comparing ascorbic acid as with liposomal Vitamin C.”
Although liposomal sodium ascorbate does not cause any harm, it is more expensive than powdered sodium ascorbate, and the liposomes often come with unpleasant flavors and can sometimes be unstable, leading to a shorter shelf life. Additionally, liposomal Vitamin C products may contain added ingredients, such as soy lecithin or other oils, which may not be suitable for people with allergies or sensitivities.
In general, to avoid uncomfortable side effects, increase tolerability, and optimize therapeutic effect, it is best to avoid Ascorbic Acid due to its low pH levels. A better option is the pH neutral Sodium Ascorbate Vitamin C.
Medical grade nutraceuticals provide the purest and most bioavailable form of vitamin C. Pure powdered Sodium Ascorbate is the easiest to titrate and absorb. Furthermore, it can be used in many different ways in human health, dentistry, and the veterinary sector.
Overall, whether pure powdered sodium ascorbate, or liposomal Vitamin C is better, depends on the individual’s needs and preferences. People who prefer a simple, inexpensive, and versatile form of Vitamin C may prefer to adhere to medical grade nutraceutical powdered sodium ascorbate.
In summary, liposome technology may not be the most effective way to deliver water-soluble vitamins like vitamin C. It is generally recommended to obtain vitamin C through supplementation in the form of tablets, capsules, or powders.
Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplementation regimen.
Why is Vitamin C so Important?
Pain Management:
As an antioxidant, Vitamin C can help reduce inflammation in the body, which can help to alleviate some types of pain. Chronic inflammation can contribute to a variety of conditions, including arthritis, and Vitamin C may help to reduce inflammation in the joints.
In addition, Vitamin C can help to reduce oxidative stress in the body, which can also contribute to pain. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body, and this can cause damage to cells and tissues. By reducing oxidative stress, Vitamin C may help to reduce pain associated with conditions like fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome.
Lastly, vitamin C is involved in the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, which can help to regulate mood and alleviate pain. Serotonin is involved in pain perception, and a deficiency in this neurotransmitter may contribute to chronic pain conditions.
Mental Health:
Vitamin C is important for brain health for several reasons:
- Antioxidant properties: Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that can help protect the brain from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to aging and diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
- Neurotransmitter production: Vitamin C is involved in the production of neurotransmitters, which are chemical messengers that allow brain cells to communicate with each other. The brain relies on neurotransmitters to regulate mood, memory, and other cognitive functions.
- Collagen formation: Vitamin C is necessary for the formation of collagen, which is an important structural protein in the brain. Collagen helps to maintain the integrity of the blood-brain barrier, which is a protective barrier that prevents harmful substances from entering the brain.
- Iron absorption: Vitamin C helps the body absorb iron, which is important for brain health. Iron is necessary for the production of hemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen to the brain. Without enough iron, the brain may not receive enough oxygen, which can lead to cognitive impairments.
- Stress management: Vitamin C may help the body manage stress, which can have a significant impact on brain health. Chronic stress can cause damage to brain cells and contribute to cognitive decline, but vitamin C may help to reduce the negative effects of stress on the brain.
Overall, vitamin C plays an important role in maintaining the health of the brain and preventing cognitive decline.
Hypovitaminosis C and The Nervous System Diseases
There is growing evidence suggesting a link between Vitamin C deficiency in the brain and several neurodegenerative diseases. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that acts as an antioxidant and plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of the brain and nervous system. The roles of Vitamin C in the brain and its link to many neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, multiple sclerosis as well as amyotrophic sclerosis, as well as in psychiatric disorders including depression, PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI), anxiety disorders and schizophrenia have often been overlooked.
Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the ability of the body’s antioxidant defense mechanisms to neutralize them. Vitamin C is one of the most potent antioxidants in the brain, and its deficiency can impair the body’s ability to fight oxidative stress.
Furthermore, Vitamin C is also involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin, which are essential for normal brain function. A deficiency in Vitamin C can lead to a disruption in neurotransmitter synthesis, which can contribute to the development of neurodegenerative diseases.
In conclusion, Vitamin C deficiency in the brain can lead to oxidative stress and disrupt neurotransmitter synthesis, which can contribute to the development of neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, ensuring adequate intake of Vitamin C through a balanced diet or supplements may help prevent or slow down the progression of these diseases.
Recent clinical studies have demonstrated the antinociceptive action, blocking the detection of a painful or injurious stimulus, by sensory neurons of vitamin C to its antioxidant [neuroprotective, and neuromodulatory properties. As such, Vitamin C has been shown to reduce acute pain and the prevalence of complex regional pain syndromes with its antinociceptive effect.
Since Vitamin C is considered to be a vital antioxidant molecule in the brain, the levels in the body may play a role in a broad spectrum of on neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, multiple sclerosis and amyotrophic sclerosis, as well as psychiatric disorders including depression, anxiety, PTSD, sleep disorders, Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI), and schizophrenia.
Intracellular Vitamin C helps maintain integrity and function of several processes in the central nervous system (CNS), including neuronal maturation and differentiation, myelin formation, synthesis of catecholamine, modulation of neurotransmission and antioxidant protection. The importance of Vitamin C for CNS function has been proven by the fact that targeted deletion of the sodium-vitamin C co-transporter in mice results in widespread cerebral hemorrhage and death on post-natal day one. Since neurological diseases are characterized by increased free radical generation and the highest concentrations of Vitamin C in the body are found in the brain and neuroendocrine tissues, it is suggested that Vitamin C may change the course of neurological diseases and display potential therapeutic roles.
Vitamin C is a nutrient of greatest importance for proper functioning of the nervous system and its main role in the brain is its participation in the antioxidant defense. Apart from this role, it is involved in numerous non-oxidant processes like biosynthesis of collagen, carnitine, tyrosine and peptide hormones as well as of myelin. It plays a crucial role in neurotransmission and neuronal maturation and functions. For instance, its ability to alleviate seizure severity as well as reduction of seizure-induced damage have been well demonstrated in clinical trials. On the other hand, disruption of Vitamin C transport has been shown to contribute to brain damage in premature infants. Furthermore, Vitamin C treatment has been reported to ameliorate neuropathological alterations as well as memory impairments and the neurodegenerative changes in rats exposed to neurotoxic substances like aluminum or colchicine.
Vitamin C and Cancer
Vitamin C has been studied for its potential role in the treatment of cancer, and there is evidence to suggest that it may have several functions in this regard.
One of the primary functions of Vitamin C in cancer treatment is its antioxidant activity. Cancer cells produce high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can damage DNA and other cellular components and promote cancer progression. Vitamin C can neutralize ROS, protecting cells from this damage and potentially reducing the risk of cancer development and progression.
Additionally, Vitamin C has been shown to have pro-oxidant activity in high concentrations. This means that at higher doses, Vitamin C can generate hydrogen peroxide, which can selectively kill cancer cells while sparing normal cells. This effect is thought to be due to the fact that cancer cells lack the enzymes necessary to break down hydrogen peroxide, making them more susceptible to its toxic effects.
Vitamin C, administered intravenously (IVC), can be used in conjunction with chemotherapy and radiation therapy in cancer treatment. However, it’s important to note that the use of Vitamin C alongside these treatments should be carefully monitored and managed by highly skilled integrative oncologists and other qualified healthcare professionals.
Some studies suggest that Vitamin C may enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy and radiation therapy by sensitizing cancer cells to these treatments and reducing side effects.
Overall, while Vitamin C therapy may have potential benefits in cancer treatment, it’s important to approach its use alongside chemotherapy and radiation therapy with caution and to seek guidance from a healthcare professional.
Moreover, Vitamin C can also enhance the immune system’s ability to fight cancer cells. It has been shown to stimulate the production of natural killer cells, which are specialized immune cells that can recognize and destroy cancer cells.
However, it’s worth noting that the evidence on the effectiveness of Vitamin C in cancer treatment is still limited, and further studies are needed to fully understand its potential benefits and risks. High-dose Vitamin C therapy can also have side effects, such as gastrointestinal discomfort, and can interact with certain medications. Therefore, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before using Vitamin C as a cancer treatment.
Vitamin C in Drug and Alcohol Addiction Treatments
Vitamin C has been used in the treatment of drug and alcohol addiction and recovery for several decades. Vitamin C is an antioxidant, and it plays a crucial role in the body’s detoxification processes. It has been suggested that Vitamin C supplementation may help reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms and support recovery from addiction.
Drug and alcohol addiction can cause oxidative stress in the body, which can damage cells and contribute to the development of chronic health problems. Vitamin C can neutralize free radicals and other reactive molecules, reducing oxidative stress and protecting cells from damage.
Furthermore, drug and alcohol addiction can deplete the body’s stores of Vitamin C, as substances such as alcohol can interfere with the absorption and utilization of this nutrient. Supplementing with Vitamin C can help restore these levels and support overall health.
There is also some evidence to suggest that Vitamin C may have a role in reducing cravings for drugs and alcohol. One study found that high-dose Vitamin C supplementation reduced the desire to smoke in a group of smokers. Another study found that Vitamin C supplementation reduced alcohol cravings in individuals with alcohol dependence.
Overall, while the evidence on the effectiveness of Vitamin C in addiction treatment is still limited, it may have potential benefits as a supplement to support recovery. It’s worth noting that Vitamin C should not be used as a substitute for evidence-based addiction treatment, but rather as a complementary therapy alongside other interventions.
Vitamin C and Opioids Addiction
There is some evidence to suggest that Vitamin C may have potential benefits in mitigating opioid drug addiction. Opioid addiction is a chronic condition characterized by changes in brain chemistry that can lead to physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can help reduce oxidative stress in the body, which can be a contributing factor to the development of addiction. Additionally, Vitamin C has been shown to have a protective effect on the brain, reducing damage to neurons and supporting overall brain health.
Several studies have investigated the use of Vitamin C in the treatment of opioid addiction, and the results have been mixed. One study found that high-dose Vitamin C supplementation reduced the severity of withdrawal symptoms in individuals undergoing opioid detoxification. Another study found that Vitamin C supplementation reduced the amount of opioids needed to achieve pain relief in individuals with chronic pain.
However, other studies have found no significant benefits of Vitamin C in opioid addiction treatment. It’s worth noting that high-dose Vitamin C therapy can have side effects, such as gastrointestinal discomfort, and can interact with certain medications.
Overall, while the evidence on the effectiveness of Vitamin C in mitigating opioid addiction is still limited, it may have potential benefits as a supplement to support recovery. It’s important to approach its use with caution and to seek guidance from a healthcare professional. Vitamin C should not be used as a substitute for evidence-based addiction treatment but rather as a complementary therapy alongside other interventions.
Vitamin C and Viral or Bacterial Infections
Vitamin C plays a crucial role in immune function and can help the body fight off viral and bacterial infections in several ways:
- Antioxidant Activity: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can neutralize free radicals and reactive oxygen species, which are produced by the body during infection. By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, Vitamin C can help support immune function and reduce the severity and duration of infections.
- White Blood Cell Function: Vitamin C can also enhance the function of white blood cells, including neutrophils, lymphocytes, and phagocytes, which are critical for fighting off infections. Vitamin C helps to activate these immune cells and enhances their ability to destroy invading pathogens.
- Collagen Synthesis: Vitamin C is essential for the synthesis of collagen, a key structural protein in the body that is critical for wound healing and tissue repair. During infection, collagen production may be increased to repair damaged tissue and support immune function.
- Antibacterial Activity: Some studies have suggested that Vitamin C may have direct antibacterial effects against certain bacterial strains. While the mechanism behind this is not well understood, it is thought that Vitamin C may disrupt bacterial membranes and inhibit bacterial growth.
- Overall, Vitamin C plays a critical role in immune function and can help support the body’s ability to fight off viral and bacterial infections. By reducing oxidative stress, enhancing white blood cell function, supporting collagen synthesis, and potentially having direct antibacterial effects, Vitamin C can be an important component of a comprehensive treatment plan for infections.
Vitamin C and COVID-19
Vitamin C has been shown to have immune-boosting properties and can help support the body’s ability to fight off infections.
COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus and can cause severe respiratory illness, among other symptoms.
Some studies have suggested that Vitamin C may have potential benefits for people with COVID-19, such as reducing inflammation and improving respiratory function, more research is needed to confirm these findings.
While Vitamin C may have potential benefits for supporting immune function and reducing inflammation, it is not a cure for COVID-19, and individuals should follow public health guidelines and seek medical attention if they are experiencing symptoms of the virus.
Vitamin C in Dentistry
Sodium ascorbate, also known as Vitamin C, has been shown to have antibacterial properties that can help resolve oral pathogens. It can do this in several ways:
- Inhibition of bacterial growth: Sodium ascorbate has been shown to inhibit the growth of certain oral bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans, which is a major contributor to dental caries (cavities).
- Neutralization of bacterial toxins: Sodium ascorbate can neutralize the toxins produced by some oral bacteria, which can reduce inflammation and damage to oral tissues.
- Promotion of healing: Vitamin C is important for collagen synthesis, which is necessary for wound healing. In the oral cavity, this can help to heal damaged tissues and reduce the risk of infection.
- Immune system support: Vitamin C is known to support the immune system, which can help the body fight off oral infections.
Overall, sodium ascorbate can be a useful adjunct to oral hygiene practices and may help to reduce the risk of oral infections and improve overall oral health. However, it should not be used as a substitute for regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings.
PURE Sodium Ascorbate for Daily Oral Care
Sodium ascorbate can be used for teeth brushing and rinsing to help promote oral health and reduce the risk of dental caries. Below are two different ways and the steps to use it:
- Prepare a solution: Dissolve a small amount of sodium ascorbate powder in water to make a solution. The concentration of the solution should be about 5-10%.
- Brush: Dip your toothbrush into the solution and brush your teeth as you normally would, making sure to cover all surfaces of your teeth.
- Alternatively, Spray, Sprinkle, or Dip: Spray your toothbrush with hydrogen peroxide, once it is wet, either sprinkle a small amount of sodium ascorbate powder on the toothbrush, or dip it into a small amount of sodium ascorbate (Do not contaminate the container).
- Rinse: After brushing, rinse your mouth thoroughly with the remaining sodium ascorbate solution. Swish the solution around in your mouth for at least 30 seconds before spitting it out.
- Follow-up care: After rinsing, you can rinse your mouth with plain water to remove any remaining residue.
While it is safe to use Sodium Ascorbate for oral care, using pure Ascorbic Acid as a toothpaste or mouthwash could lead to several dental problems.
Firstly, ascorbic acid is highly acidic, and using it as a toothpaste or mouthwash could erode your tooth enamel over time. This can lead to tooth sensitivity, cavities, and other dental problems. Secondly, ascorbic acid can irritate your gums and cause inflammation, leading to gum disease and other oral health issues.
Moreover, using ascorbic acid to brush your teeth may also cause staining of your teeth, which could make your smile look dull and discolored over time.
It’s important to note that while sodium ascorbate can be useful for oral health, it should not be used as a substitute for regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings.
Medical Grade Sodium Ascorbate for Wound Irrigation
Sodium ascorbate can be used as a wound irrigator due to its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce the risk of infection and promote wound healing. Here’s how it can be used:
- Prepare a solution: Dissolve sodium ascorbate powder in sterile water to make a solution of about 5-10% strength. The exact concentration will depend on the specific application and the severity of the wound.
- Irrigation: Use a syringe or a bulb syringe to gently irrigate the wound with the sodium ascorbate solution. This can help to remove any debris or foreign material from the wound and reduce the risk of infection.
- Repeat: Depending on the severity of the wound, it may be necessary to repeat the irrigation process several times a day.
- Follow-up care: After irrigation, the wound should be covered with a sterile dressing or bandage. Regular wound care, such as changing the dressing and monitoring for signs of infection, should also be performed.
It’s important to note that while sodium ascorbate can be useful in wound irrigation, it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care. For serious or infected wounds, it’s important to seek medical attention from a healthcare professional.
Vitamin C in Trauma, Surgeries, and Healing
Sodium ascorbate, a form of vitamin C, can potentially improve clinical outcomes when used as a supplement before and after surgery. Ascorbate is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in many physiological processes in the body, including wound healing and immune function. During trauma and after surgeries, there is an increased demand for ascorbate, which can lead to depletion of this nutrient in the body.
Trauma, such as injury or burns, can cause tissue damage and inflammation, which can lead to oxidative stress and increased demand for ascorbate. Studies have shown that trauma patients have lower levels of ascorbate compared to healthy individuals, and that supplementation with ascorbate can improve outcomes such as wound healing and immune function.
Similarly, surgeries can also lead to ascorbate depletion, as the body requires this nutrient for wound healing and tissue repair. In fact, studies have shown that patients undergoing major surgeries can experience a significant decrease in plasma ascorbate levels post-surgery, which can lead to impaired wound healing and increased risk of infection.
To prevent ascorbate depletion during trauma and after surgeries, it may be beneficial to supplement with ascorbate. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplements, as the dosage and timing of supplementation will depend on individual needs and medical history.
Here are some ways that pure medical grade Sodium Ascorbate can be used:
- Boosting the immune system: Taking sodium ascorbate before and after surgery can help to boost your immune system, which can lead to faster healing and reduced risk of infection. Vitamin C is known to enhance the production of white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting off infections.
- Reducing inflammation: Sodium ascorbate has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce swelling and pain after surgery. This can also help to speed up the healing process and reduce the risk of complications.
- Enhancing collagen production: Collagen is a protein that is important for the growth and repair of tissues in the body. Sodium ascorbate can enhance the production of collagen, which can lead to faster healing and improved clinical outcomes after surgery.
- Preventing oxidative stress: Surgery can cause oxidative stress in the body, which can damage cells and tissues. Sodium ascorbate is an antioxidant, which can help to prevent oxidative stress and protect your body from damage.
It is important to note that taking sodium ascorbate in therapeutic doses before and after surgery should be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional. The dosage and timing of the supplement should be carefully monitored to ensure that it is safe and effective for your individual needs.