Ascorbic acid, commonly referred to as Vitamin C, is the natural form of the vitamin that is most readily absorbed and utilized by the body. Its effectiveness in promoting health and treating various conditions has been well-documented through extensive research. Here’s why it remains the vitamin C of choice:
Dr. Frederick Klenner, a pioneering physician in the field of vitamin therapy, championed the use of high-dose ascorbic acid for treating a range of ailments. Klenner's clinical studies demonstrated the vitamin's potential in combating viral infections and other health issues. He famously stated, "The therapeutic use of ascorbic acid is nothing short of miraculous." His work laid a foundation for the continued exploration of ascorbic acid’s benefits.
Albert Szent-Györgyi, the scientist who first isolated Vitamin C, identified ascorbic acid as the active form responsible for its health benefits. His groundbreaking research earned him the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1937, and he emphasized the importance of ascorbic acid by stating, "Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant and a vital nutrient that our bodies require to function optimally."
Linus Pauling, another Nobel laureate, further elevated the status of ascorbic acid through his extensive research and advocacy. Pauling's studies suggested that high doses of ascorbic acid could have significant health benefits, including enhancing immune function and potentially extending lifespan. He famously remarked, "The best way to get enough Vitamin C is to take ascorbic acid."
Ascorbic acid is the form of Vitamin C that human beings absorb most efficiently. This is partly due to its chemical structure, which allows it to be easily transported into cells and tissues. The body uses ascorbic acid in numerous metabolic processes, including collagen synthesis, which is crucial for skin, blood vessels, and connective tissue health.
An interesting aspect of Vitamin C's role in human health is linked to the GULO mutation. Humans, unlike many animals, lack the enzyme gulonolactone oxidase (GULO) due to a genetic mutation. This enzyme is essential for synthesizing Vitamin C from glucose. As a result, humans must obtain Vitamin C through their diet or supplements, making ascorbic acid a crucial component for our well-being. The inability to produce Vitamin C endogenously underscores the necessity of ensuring adequate supplementation.
Ascorbic acid remains the vitamin C of choice due to its proven efficacy, historical endorsements from leading scientists, and its essential role in human health. From Dr. Frederick Klenner's clinical insights to Albert Szent-Györgyi’s foundational discoveries and Linus Pauling’s advocacy, the importance of ascorbic acid is well-established. Understanding the implications of the GULO mutation also highlights why maintaining sufficient levels of this vital nutrient through supplementation is crucial.
Adding ascorbic acid to your daily routine allows you to harness its potent antioxidant benefits and support overall health. At Revitalize Wellness, we suggest that adults aim for at least 10 grams (10,000 mg) of ascorbic acid each day, spreading the dose throughout the day to keep your cells well-saturated. As Marisa often says, "RDA keeps you alive, Bowel Tolerance helps you thrive!"
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