Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) has numerous biological functions. Foremost, it is essential for the synthesis of
collagen and glycosaminoglycans which are the building materials of all connective tissues, such as skin,
blood vessels, tendons, joint cartilage and bone. Vitamin C is the required coenzyme for two groups of
enzymes that catalyze the crosslinking of collagen fibers - lysyl hydroxylases and prolyl hydroxylases. As such,
vitamin C is essential for normal wound healing and capillary health. It also participates in the biosynthesis of
carnitine, serotonin, and certain neurotransmitters, including norepinephrine.
Vitamin C is among the most powerful antioxidants in humans and animals. It is a water-soluble, chainbreaking
antioxidant that reacts directly with superoxide, hydroxyl radicals, and singlet oxygen. Laboratory
studies show that vitamin C completely protects lipids in plasma and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) against
atherogenic peroxidative damage. In addition, vitamin C interacts with glutathione and alpha-lipoic acid, and
regenerates vitamin E. The antioxidant functions of vitamin C appear to have clinical significance in providing
protection from free radical damage to the eyes, lungs, blood and the immune system.
Vitamin C is absorbed in the small intestine by a sodium-dependent transport process that is intake dependent.
At normal dietary intakes of 60 to 100 mg, up to 80 or 90% of the vitamin C is absorbed. At higher intakes,
absorption becomes less efficient. Absorption efficiency and vitamin C utilization may be greatly enhanced
during conditions of physiological stress, such as trauma or infection.
Bioflavonoids (also called flavonoids) are a class of phytochemicals that are potent antioxidants, which
scavenge many potentially damaging free radicals. Another aspect of the antioxidant properties of
bioflavonoids is their synergy with vitamin C, as well as their ability to bind to metal ions, preventing these
metals from catalyzing enhanced free radical production.
Many bioflavonoids support the health of the body’s circulatory system by helping maintain capillary blood flow
and proper vascular permeability, integrity, and resiliency.
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
This product was added to our catalog on Wednesday 04 June, 2014.