WHAT IS VITAMIN C?
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a vital nutrient that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions. It is well known for its antioxidant properties, helping to protect cells from the damage caused by free radicals, which are compounds that can lead to oxidative stress and contribute to the development of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. Vitamin C is essential for the synthesis of collagen, a protein that is necessary for the repair and growth of tissues in all parts of the body, including skin, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels. It also enhances the immune system, improves the absorption of iron from plant-based foods, and aids in wound healing. Unlike most animals, humans cannot produce vitamin C on their own and must obtain it from dietary sources, including fruits and vegetables like oranges, strawberries, kiwi, bell peppers, dark leafy greens, and tomatoes.
Besides its well-documented health benefits, vitamin C has been studied for its potential role in reducing the duration and severity of common cold symptoms, although findings have been mixed. It may also play a protective role in cardiovascular health by improving arterial stiffness and endothelial function, reducing blood pressure, and lowering cholesterol levels. Athletes and those involved in intense physical activities might benefit from vitamin C due to its ability to reduce muscle soreness and oxidative stress induced by exercise, thereby enhancing recovery. However, it’s important to consume vitamin C in moderation, as excessive intake can lead to adverse effects such as gastrointestinal distress and kidney stones. The recommended daily intake of vitamin C varies by age, gender, and life stage, but generally, a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables should provide adequate amounts of this essential nutrient.
HOW DOES VITAMIN C WORK?
Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, serves multiple critical roles in the body, including:
- Antioxidant Protection:
- Neutralizes free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and protecting cells from damage.
- Regenerates other antioxidants, such as vitamin E, enhancing the body’s overall defensive mechanisms.
- Collagen Synthesis:
- Essential for the synthesis of collagen, a key structural protein needed for the health and repair of tissues, including skin, blood vessels, bones, and connective tissue.
- Immune System Support:
- Boosts the immune system by enhancing the production and function of white blood cells.
- Protects the integrity of immune cells and improves the skin’s defense mechanisms against pathogens.
- Iron Absorption:
- Increases the absorption of non-heme iron (the type of iron found in plant-based foods), helping to prevent iron-deficiency anemia.
- Wound Healing:
- Accelerates the healing process by promoting the growth of new tissue and capillaries.
- Neurotransmitter Synthesis:
- Involved in the synthesis of certain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, which play a role in mood regulation and brain function.
- Cardiovascular Health:
- May help lower blood pressure and improve endothelial function, contributing to heart health and reducing the risk of heart disease.
Vitamin C’s wide-ranging benefits underscore its importance in maintaining health and preventing various diseases. Ensuring adequate intake through diet or supplementation can support these vital functions.
Vitamin C holds particular importance for athletes due to its diverse roles in supporting physical health and optimizing performance:
- Enhances Recovery: Vitamin C contributes to the repair and growth of tissues, including muscle repair after intensive exercise. Its role in collagen synthesis is crucial for healing injuries, such as sprains and strains, allowing athletes to recover faster and return to training.
- Reduces Muscle Soreness: As a potent antioxidant, vitamin C helps reduce oxidative stress associated with muscle damage from exercise. This can lead to decreased muscle soreness and improved recovery times, enabling more consistent and effective training sessions.
- Supports Immune Function: Intense training sessions can temporarily weaken the immune system, making athletes more susceptible to infections. Vitamin C strengthens the immune system, helping to protect athletes from colds, flu, and other infections that could interrupt their training schedules.
- Aids in Iron Absorption: Vitamin C enhances the absorption of iron from the diet, particularly non-heme iron found in plant-based sources. Iron is essential for the formation of hemoglobin, which transports oxygen to muscles during exercise. Improved iron absorption can enhance oxygen delivery and endurance performance.
- Antioxidant Protection: By neutralizing free radicals, vitamin C protects against exercise-induced oxidative damage, supporting overall health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. This antioxidant protection is vital for long-term athletic health and performance.
Given these benefits, vitamin C supplementation can be a valuable addition to an athlete’s nutrition regimen, particularly in periods of intense training or when dietary intake of vitamin C is insufficient. However, it’s essential to consume vitamin C in appropriate amounts, as excessive intake has not been shown to provide additional benefits and may lead to adverse effects.
Combating free radicals is essential for athletes because intense physical activity increases oxidative stress, leading to potential muscle damage, inflammation, and impaired recovery. Antioxidants play a crucial role in protecting muscle tissue, enhancing recovery times, and possibly improving performance by neutralizing the harmful effects of free radicals. Furthermore, managing oxidative stress is not only important for immediate athletic performance and recovery but also for long-term health, as it can reduce the risk of chronic diseases and support immune function. Therefore, athletes often focus on antioxidant-rich diets and may supplement with vitamins like C and E to maintain optimal health and performance levels. Balancing antioxidant intake is key, as excessive supplementation could negatively affect the natural beneficial adaptations to exercise.
PRODUCT FACTS
NUTRITION VALUE
| Active ingredient | in 1 capsule (one portion) |
| Vitamin C | 1000 mg (1250 %*) |
| * RI - reference intake | |
INGREDIENTS
Vitamin c, coating (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose), coloring (zinc oxide).
AVAILABLE VARIANT
90 capsules
HOW TO USE VITAMIN C?
Take 1 capsule daily.
EAN LIST
5060575580777
STORAGE CONDITIONS
Store in a cool, dry place at room temperature, in a tightly closed container, away from light and moisture, and out of reach of small children.
ALLERGEN INFORMATIONS
Possible unintentional quantities of gluten, milk, eggs, sesame seeds, nuts, celery and crustaceans.
WARNINGS
Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. This food supplement should not be used as a substitute for a varied diet. The product is not intended for use by children, pregnant, or breastfeeding women. Do not use in case of hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients. A balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle are important.
