Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
Overview
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a water-soluble vitamin the body cannot produce on its own. It is essential for collagen production, which supports skin, bones, and blood vessels. Vitamin C also acts as an antioxidant, supports immune function, and enhances the absorption of iron from plant-based foods. Good sources include bell peppers, citrus fruits, kiwi, and broccoli. Adults need 75–90 mg daily; the tolerable upper limit is 2,000 mg per day.
Dosage
90 mg · Morning · Take with food
Key Interactions
35 verified interactions found
Ascorbate is a cofactor for two hydroxylase reactions in L-carnitine biosynthesis (epsilon-N-trimethyllysine hydroxylase and gamma-butyrobetaine hydroxylase). While biochemically required, recent knockout mouse studies suggest in vivo compensatory mechanisms may exist. Clinical deficiency of Vitamin C does correlate with reduced carnitine levels and fatigue.
Ensure adequate Vitamin C intake for optimal L-carnitine synthesis. Particularly important for vegetarians and vegans who have lower carnitine intake.
View details →Electron donors like vitamin C reduce manganese's activity in photosynthetic systems.
Vitamin C kann bestimmte Mangan-abhängige Enzymreaktionen in biologischen Systemen beeinflussen; die klinische Relevanz für Humansupplemente ist gering. Eine gleichzeitige Einnahme gilt als unbedenklich.
View details →Zinc and Vitamin C are both critical for immune function and work synergistically. Vitamin C supports neutrophil function while zinc activates T-cells and B-cells. Often combined in immune support formulations.
Take together, especially during periods of immune challenge. Well-established synergy for immune defense.
View details →Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) enhances non-heme iron absorption by reducing ferric iron (Fe3+) to the more bioavailable ferrous form (Fe2+) in the gut lumen. Studies show absorption increases of up to 67% when taken together. Particularly important for plant-based diets.
Take Vitamin C together with iron supplements or iron-rich meals for maximum absorption. 75-100mg Vitamin C is sufficient to significantly enhance iron uptake.
View details →EGCG and vitamin C show reduced combined cytotoxic activity against cancer cells compared to vitamin C alone.
EGCG und Gerbsäure können die zytotoxische Aktivität von Natriumascorbat in Zellmodellen leicht reduzieren; die klinische Relevanz ist begrenzt. Eine gleichzeitige Einnahme gilt als unbedenklich.
View details →Scientific Sources
- Vitamin C + L-carnitine biosynthesis (2023)
- Ascorbic acid + carnitine combination (2020)
- Vitamin C L-carnitine synthesis review (2020)
- Electron spin resonance and photoreaction of Mn(II) in lettuce chloroplasts. (1977)
- Interaction between sodium ascorbate and polyphenols. (1999)
- NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD)
- PubChem Compound 54670067
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) used for?
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a water-soluble vitamin the body cannot produce on its own.
What is the recommended dosage for Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)?
90 mg. Morning. Take with food.
Does Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) interact with other supplements?
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) has 35 verified interactions. Top: L-Carnitin, Manganese.
When is the best time to take Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)?
Morning. Take with food.
Is Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) safe to combine with other supplements?
Always check interactions before combining supplements. Use VitalStack to verify your full stack for free.
Check how Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) fits your full stack
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Check Your Stack →Not medical advice. VitalStack is not a medical device. For personalized health recommendations, consult a healthcare provider.