Vitamin C 500 mg

Feature Summary

Vitamin C has powerful antioxidant and infection-fighting properties. In this formula, also included are citrus bioflavonoids, rutin and rosehips which are known to improve circulation, memory and varicose veins, and to reduce high blood pressure and the risk of stroke.

Vitamin C is necessary in maintaining all collagen structures, which promotes wound repair, strong bones and teeth, and healthy gums. As a potent antioxidant, it protects the aqueous areas of the body (including the blood, intracellular fluid and interstitial fluid) from free radicals. Vitamin C protects LDL cholesterol from oxidation and also helps to regenerate vitamin E.

As it is a water-soluble vitamin, the body does not store vitamin C, so regular supplementation is vital. The body requires more vitamin C during times of stress because vitamin C participates in the production of vital chemicals such as norepinephrine, responsible for the "fight or flight" response.

Vitamin C also acts as a detoxifier, helping to cleanse the body of toxins, such as cigarette smoke, carbon monoxide, etc. Bioflavonoids (vitamin-like molecules that are found in the peel of citrus fruits and other fruits and vegetables) enhance the activity of vitamin C and may improve the body's ability to hold and absorb vitamin C by 35%.

Contraindications

• Vitamin C may increase the absorption of aluminum from aluminum-containing antacids such as AlternaGEL, Amphojel, Basaljel, Nephrox, Maalox, and Mylanta. Take vitamin C at least 2 hours before or after taking one of these products.
• As this product contains citrus bioflavonoids, there is one caution: bioflavonoids are non-toxic so drug interactions are virtually unknown; however, citrus bioflavonoids contain grapefruit flavonoids that may interact with certain medications.
• The reason that grapefruit is problematic with certain drugs is that it contains high levels of a flavonoid (plant pigment) called naringin.
• This substance reduces the activity of a group of P450 enzymes known as CYP3A enzymes.
• These enzymes are what your body uses to break down certain drugs, such as calcium channel blockers (used in the treatment of high blood pressure), sedatives (for example, midazolam), cyclosporin (an immune suppressant given to people who have received organ transplants) and statins (lipid-lowering drugs).
• If the drugs are not metabolized, they remain in the body in higher concentrations. This increases the risk of unwanted toxic effects.
• If taking these drugs, be aware of this effect and consult your health care practitioner.

Ingredients

Each tablet contains:
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid).................... 500 mg

Recommended Adult Dose

1-3 tablets daily or as directed by a health care practitioner. Keep out of the reach of children.