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Vitamin
C
British sailors
often came down with scurvy on long voyages because they couldn't get
enough fresh fruits and vegetables to eat. Dr. James Lind discovered that
by feeding the sailors lemons, limes, or oranges they would recover from
this dreaded disease. The ingredient in the fresh fruit which caused this
turnaround was vitamin C.
Eventually
the British Government ordered that all sailors drink fresh lime juice
daily to prevent the reoccurrence of scurvy. This gave rise to the nickname
"limey" and also led to the technical name for vitamin C, (ascorbic
acid) which means "no-scurvy" acid.
Vitamin C
has become a widely respected and important nutrient. Following is some
helpful information about Vitamin C, including applications, scientific
data, depleting agents, and safety issues.
There are
many applications for vitamin C including the treatment of infections,
bruising, colds and flu, sinusitis, earaches, sore throats, smoker's blood
clots, atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, physical and mental stress,
weak immune system, cholesterol levels, and liver toxicity.
The importance
of vitamin C is supported by a large body of scientific research. Numerous
studies have proven the ability of vitamin C to help open constricted
bronchiole tubes, accelerate wound healing, scavenge for free radicals
and help prevent cardiovascular disease. Its role in cancer prevention
is also thought to be significant.
Some substances
can inhibit the activity of vitamin C. Aspirin, alcohol, antidepressant
drugs, analgesics, oral contraceptives, anticoagulants, steroids, cooking,
food processing, diuretics, air pollution, smoking, and anti-inflammatories
like acetaminophen can reduce its effectiveness. Even fresh vegetables
and fruits can quickly lose their vitamin C content if left standing.
The safety
of vitamin C has been well established. In most cases it is considered
nontoxic. Some studies suggest that taking it in large doses depletes
vitamin B12 stores. Anyone who has a history of kidney stones should take
vitamin C only with a physician's approval. Unusually excessive doses
may cause intestinal upset, gas or diarrhea. Pregnant or nursing mothers
should not use amounts larger than 5,000 mg. Daily.
Bioflavonoids...should
be taken with vitamin C as they increase its absorbability.
Doctor’s
Guide To Natural Medicine. Paul Barney, M.D. Woodland
Publishing. © 1998. Page 37
Super LifeSpan, Super Health. By the editors of FC&A © 1997.
Page 15
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