The Best Form Of Vitamin C To Take
Vitamin C is one of the most important vitamins for our body. It is essential for the growth, development, and repair of all body tissues. It is also important for the formation of collagen, absorption of iron, and maintenance of healthy bones and teeth. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the body against damage from free radicals, which can cause chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and arthritis.
Types of Vitamin C
There are several different forms of vitamin C available in the market. The most common types are ascorbic acid, sodium ascorbate, calcium ascorbate, and ascorbyl palmitate. Ascorbic acid is the most common form of vitamin C found in supplements and is also the most studied.
Sodium ascorbate is a buffered form of vitamin C that is less acidic and easier on the stomach than ascorbic acid. Calcium ascorbate is a form of vitamin C that is bonded with calcium, which helps to make it more gentle on the stomach. Ascorbyl palmitate is a fat-soluble form of vitamin C that is more stable and long-lasting than other forms of vitamin C.
The Best Form of Vitamin C
The best form of vitamin C to take depends on your individual needs and preferences. Ascorbic acid is the most common form of vitamin C found in supplements and is also the most studied. It is also the cheapest form of vitamin C available in the market. However, ascorbic acid can be harsh on the stomach, which can cause stomach upset, diarrhea, and other digestive issues.
If you have a sensitive stomach or are prone to stomach upset, you may want to consider taking a buffered form of vitamin C such as sodium ascorbate or calcium ascorbate. These forms of vitamin C are less acidic and easier on the stomach. They are also more expensive than ascorbic acid.
If you are looking for a long-lasting and more stable form of vitamin C, you may want to consider taking ascorbyl palmitate. This form of vitamin C is fat-soluble, which means it is better absorbed by the body and can be stored in the body's fat cells for longer periods of time. Ascorbyl palmitate is also more expensive than other forms of vitamin C.
The Benefits of Vitamin C
Vitamin C has numerous health benefits. It is essential for the growth, development, and repair of all body tissues. It is also important for the formation of collagen, absorption of iron, and maintenance of healthy bones and teeth. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the body against damage from free radicals, which can cause chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and arthritis.
Vitamin C also helps boost the immune system, which can help the body fight off infections and diseases. It is also important for the production of neurotransmitters, which help regulate mood and behavior. Vitamin C may also help reduce the risk of developing cataracts and age-related macular degeneration, two common eye disorders.
The Recommended Daily Intake of Vitamin C
The recommended daily intake of vitamin C varies depending on age, gender, and other factors. The National Institutes of Health recommends the following daily intake of vitamin C:
- Infants (0-6 months): 40 mg
- Infants (7-12 months): 50 mg
- Children (1-3 years): 15 mg
- Children (4-8 years): 25 mg
- Children (9-13 years): 45 mg
- Teens (14-18 years): 65-75 mg
- Adults (19 years and older): 75-90 mg
- Pregnant women: 85 mg
- Breastfeeding women: 120 mg
Conclusion
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that has numerous health benefits. There are several different forms of vitamin C available in the market, including ascorbic acid, sodium ascorbate, calcium ascorbate, and ascorbyl palmitate. The best form of vitamin C to take depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you have a sensitive stomach, you may want to consider taking a buffered form of vitamin C such as sodium ascorbate or calcium ascorbate. If you are looking for a long-lasting and more stable form of vitamin C, you may want to consider taking ascorbyl palmitate. Regardless of which form of vitamin C you choose, it is important to follow the recommended daily intake to ensure you are getting the maximum health benefits from this essential nutrient.