Vitamin C Functions
by James Sloane
The most popular supplement ever is obviously vitamin C. This antioxidant serves the body in so many ways.
As a water-soluble antioxidant, vitamin C helps protect the inside of cells from free radical damage. A synthetic, oil soluble form, a vitamin C is also available. The oil soluble form can help protect the cell membrane.
Vitamin C is essential for the synthesis of collagen and elastin. These proteins give strength and elasticity to the skin, hair, nails, bones, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, arterial walls, and other tissues. Deficiencies of these proteins lead to wrinkles, emphysema, diverticulitis, osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, and other disorders.
The immune system is dependent on vitamin C for the production of antibodies, interferons, immune enzymes, and immune cells. The thymus gland, considered the master gland of immunity, and the adrenal glands, which also play a major role in the immune system, are both highly dependent on vitamin C for proper function. In fact, the adrenal glands receive priority of vitamin C over the rest of the body.
The primary cause for vitamin C deficiencies is stress, including pain. Stress causes the adrenal glands to work overtime, increasing the requirement for vitamin C by the adrenal glands. Because the adrenal glands receive priority of vitamin C over the rest the body, this reduces available levels to other parts of the body. Stimulants, such as caffeine and nicotine, also overwork the adrenal glands reducing vitamin C levels in the body.