Vitamin C: The Wonder Nutrient1-6
Perhaps more than any other nutrient, vitamin C (ascorbic acid) benefits an encyclopedic range
of conditions. The body needs adequate amounts of vitamin C for immunity, bone maintenance,
collagen crosslinking, enzymatic reactions, central nervous system function, and reducing
inflammation, along with a broad range of biological functions in order to maintain physiologic
homeostasis.1-7 Recently, research has focused on the significant role that vitamin C plays in epigenetics, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer.8-13 The level of ascorbic acid in the body naturally declines during the aging process.14-16 Other factors that reduce vitamin C levels include
chronic stress (vitamin C helps support healthy adrenal function), smoking, illness, injury, and
multiple medications such as oral contraceptives, estrogen replacement, corticosteroids, and
aspirin
