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Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid , is a water-soluble vitamin that, due to its many physiological implications, is the No. 1 anti-aging and toning vitamin.
We take stock below!
The discovery of Vitamin C:
The origin of vitamin C dates back to the observation of sailors suffering from scurvy , a serious disease due to a deficiency of this vitamin.
In the 18th century, James Lind discovered that lemon juice could prevent this disease, thus paving the way for understanding the importance of vitamin C in human health.
Since then, research has clarified the fundamental nature of this vitamin for its multiple functions.
A vitamin essential to the body:
Vitamin C is “essential” because the body cannot synthesize it.
Unlike many other mammals (dogs for example), humans cannot synthesize vitamin C, due to an ancestral genetic mutation.
This genetic defect makes it imperative to obtain exogenous vitamin C through food or supplements to meet physiological needs.
Proven Benefits of Vitamin C:
Vitamin C has many benefits : it is a key cofactor for many physiological mechanisms. Without it, these reactions are less efficient or even stopped (as in the case of scurvy).
The European Health Authority (EFSA) has listed health claims for vitamin C.
This vitamin plays a key role in the immune system by promoting the production and activity of white blood cells, which fight infections.
Moreover, in moderate doses, it is a powerful antioxidant , neutralizing free radicals and protecting cells against oxidative damage.
It also contributes to the synthesis of collagen , a protein essential for the youthfulness of the skin , joints and all tissues.
This dual anti-oxidant and collagen synthesis action makes it the No. 1 Anti-Aging vitamin.
Necessary intake of Vitamin C:
Vitamin C needs vary depending on age, gender, health status and lifestyle.
Health authorities generally recommend daily intakes ranging from 65 to 110 milligrams per day for adults.
However, these needs may be increased by approximately 30% in:
- Smokers
- People with excess oxidative stress (pathologies)
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women, or those with specific medical conditions.
Risk of Vitamin C Deficiency:
It is important to differentiate between a severe deficiency called scurvy and a mild deficiency.
Scurvy, a disease historically associated with this deficiency, is characterized by fatigue, joint pain, bleeding gums, and even serious heart problems if the deficiency persists.
Although vitamin C deficiency is rare in developed countries, insufficient intake can lead to more subtle symptoms such as:
- Immune weakness
- Slower wound healing.
- Fatigue
- Irritability
Where to find vitamin C in food?
Vitamin C is present in various foods, mainly in fresh fruits such as:
- Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, grapefruits)
- Berries (strawberries, blackberries, currants)
- Kiwis and pineapples
As well as in certain vegetables such as peppers, broccoli, Brussels sprouts and spinach.
Vitamin C content varies considerably among foods and can be influenced by environmental, cultural, and agricultural factors.
Preparation and cooking methods, including high-temperature cooking or prolonged storage, can alter the amount of vitamin C in foods because the vitamin is sensitive to heat, light, and oxygen.
What dosage of vitamin C should be in food supplements?
Traditionally, and following a "more is better" logic, vitamin C is mainly presented in high doses (500 to 1000 mg) , in tablets rich in additives (more than 90%) and for occasional use.
Conversely, we believe that vitamin C as a supplement to a balanced diet is useful every day and in moderate doses!
Scientific studies show that high doses of vitamin C are only very ineffective due to the saturation of absorption mechanisms: excess vitamin C is largely excreted in the urine without being fully metabolized by the body (up to 85% for intakes of 1 gram) [1]
The optimal blood level of vitamin C of the order of approximately 70 µmol/litre, is quickly obtained with daily intakes of around 80 to 100 mg of vitamin C: high dosages are useless!
Therefore, it is best to choose moderate doses, with doses spread out over the day for optimal absorption, and with regular (daily) intake to benefit from the anti-aging properties of vitamin C.
Vitamin C spray: ideal for daily intake
In accordance with these scientific realities, and to facilitate regular and moderate intake, we have developed a solution suitable for everyone: vitamin C spray.
This form has a notable advantage in terms of absorption, attributable to its optimal dosage and sublingual administration.
The oral spray promotes efficient absorption of vitamin C through the mucous membranes, thus allowing rapid diffusion into the bloodstream without reaching intestinal saturation thresholds.
The application is easy and direct, with no preparation required. The spray can also be sprayed onto food (children, etc.).
- Vitamin C pharmacokinetics in healthy volunteers: evidence for a recommended dietary allowance: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8623000/
- EFSA: https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/3418
- Anses: https://www.anses.fr/fr/content/vitamine-c
