Most multivitamin supplements contain vitamin C. In addition, vitamin C is available alone, as a dietary supplement, or in combination with other nutrients. Vitamin C in dietary supplements is generally in the form of ascorbic acid, but some supplements contain other forms, such as sodium ascorbate, calcium ascorbate, other mineral ascorbates, and ascorbic acid with bioflavonoids. Scientific studies have not shown that any form of vitamin C is more effective than any other.
Vitamin C dietary supplements may interact or interfere with the medications you take. For example:
- Vitamin C dietary supplements may interact with cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. It is not certain whether vitamin C might have the unintended effect of protecting tumour cells from cancer treatments, or whether it might protect normal tissues from damage. If you are being treated for cancer, talk to your healthcare professional before taking vitamin C supplements or other antioxidants, especially in high concentrations.
- In one study, vitamin C combined with other antioxidants (such as vitamin E, selenium and beta-carotene) reduced the heart-protective effects of two drugs taken in combination (a statin and a niacin) to control cholesterol levels. It is not known whether this interaction also occurs with other statins. Health professionals should monitor lipid levels in people taking statins and antioxidant supplements.
Talk to your doctor, pharmacist and other healthcare professionals about the dietary supplements and medications you take. They will tell you if these dietary supplements might interact or interfere with your prescription or over-the-counter medications or if the medications might interfere with how your body absorbs, uses or breaks down nutrients.
Vitamin C deficiency, also known as scurvy, can present a variety of symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms of vitamin C deficiency include:
- Fatigue and weakness: Lack of vitamin C can lead to a general feeling of tiredness and weakness.
- Bleeding and swollen gums: Vitamin C plays an important role in the health of gums and connective tissues. Vitamin C deficiency can lead to swollen gums, bleeding gums and increased susceptibility to infection.
- Bone weakness and joint pain: Vitamin C is essential for the formation and maintenance of collagen, an important protein in bone and connective tissue. Vitamin C deficiency can lead to joint pain and bone weakness.
- Wound healing problems: Collagen is essential for wound healing. Lack of vitamin C can slow down the wound healing process and lead to weaker scars.
- Dry and rough skin: Vitamin C is important for keeping skin healthy and radiant. Vitamin C deficiency can cause skin that is dry, rough and prone to wrinkling.
- Anaemia: Vitamin C aids in the absorption of iron. Vitamin C deficiency can hinder proper iron absorption, which can lead to anaemia.
- Mood swings and depression: Vitamin C deficiency has been found to be associated with mood swings, irritability and symptoms of depression.
- Immune system problems: Vitamin C plays a key role in immune system function. Vitamin C deficiency can weaken the immune system and increase susceptibility to infections.
It is important to note that vitamin C deficiency is rare in most developed countries due to the availability of vitamin C-rich foods and dietary supplements. However, if you suspect that you may have a vitamin C deficiency, it is advisable to consult a health professional for a proper diagnosis and guidance on supplementation or dietary changes.
Best regards,
Tribu Naturals