Balancing Vitamin C: How Much Do We Really Need?

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a crucial nutrient that plays a fundamental role in many biochemical processes in the body. It supports the immune system, promotes healthy skin, and helps protect against a range of bacterial and viral infections. However, the question remains, how much vitamin C do we really need?

While the recommended daily allowance (RDA) for vitamin C is 60 mg, recent research has suggested that this amount may only be sufficient to prevent scurvy. Many researchers recommend a daily intake of 500-1000 mg of vitamin C to support optimal health. However, this amount may need to be adjusted based on individual factors, such as smoking, diabetes, stress, age, and medication use.

Additionally, most animals can produce their own vitamin C, but humans, guinea pigs, and monkeys cannot, which means that we must obtain vitamin C through our diet. Fruits and vegetables, particularly citrus fruits, kiwi, strawberries, and bell peppers, are excellent sources of vitamin C.

Stress is another factor that can impact our daily vitamin C requirements. During periods of high stress, our body may require up to 1000-5000mg of vitamin C to support our immune system, reduce inflammation, and maintain optimal health. However, it's essential to manage vitamin C intake in consultation with a healthcare practitioner, as overconsumption of vitamin C can lead to side effects such as digestive discomfort and diarrhoea, and may interact with certain medications.

In conclusion, vitamin C is a vital nutrient that plays an essential role in supporting our health and wellbeing. While the RDA for vitamin C is 60 mg, research suggests that a daily intake of 500-1000 mg is more appropriate for optimal health. It's important to adjust our vitamin C intake based on individual factors and consult with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate daily intake. By maintaining a balanced intake of vitamin C through a healthy diet and supplements where necessary, we can ensure optimal health and wellbeing.

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