Vitamin C

Introduction

As a Nurse Practitioner with an autonomous practice in Florida, I have witnessed firsthand the significant impact of Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, on patient health and wellness. This water-soluble vitamin is a vital nutrient that the human body cannot synthesize, meaning it must be obtained through diet. Let’s explore the background, clinical implications, ranges, and factors influencing Vitamin C levels in the body.

Background of Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that plays an essential role in numerous bodily functions. Unlike most mammals, humans lack the ability to produce Vitamin C endogenously and must rely on dietary intake to meet their needs. This vitamin is crucial for tissue healing, immune function, energy metabolism, and many other physiological processes. It is involved in collagen production, which is vital for maintaining skin, blood vessels, bones, and cartilage. Furthermore, it aids in the synthesis of carnitine, essential for energy production, and supports the body’s antioxidant defense mechanisms.

Clinical Implications of Vitamin C Levels

Low Vitamin C Levels

Deficiency in Vitamin C can have significant clinical implications, including:

• Anemia and Cardiovascular Disease: Vitamin C enhances iron absorption; its deficiency can lead to anemia and increased cardiovascular risk due to weakened blood vessel integrity.
  
• Compromised Connective Tissue: Impaired collagen synthesis results in joint pain, poor wound healing, and fragile capillaries.
  
• Scurvy: Characterized by fatigue, bleeding gums, and skin lesions.
  
• Oxidative Stress and Smoking: Smokers often exhibit lower Vitamin C levels, exacerbating oxidative damage.
  
  

High Vitamin C Levels

While Vitamin C toxicity is rare, very high levels from supplementation may pose risks:

• Oxalate Kidney Stones: Excess Vitamin C can increase oxalate excretion, contributing to stone formation in renal insufficiency.
  
• Hemochromatosis and G6PD Deficiency: Individuals with these conditions should limit intake to avoid complications.
  
  

Understanding Vitamin C Ranges

Vitamin C levels are measured in mg/dL or µmol/L:

• Standard Range: 0.20 – 2.70 mg/dL (11.36 – 153.31 µmol/L)
  
• Optimal Range: 1.30 – 4.00 mg/dL (73.81 – 227.12 µmol/L)
  
  

Blood levels above 4 mg/dL from diet or 350 mg/dL from IV administration are considered elevated.

Interfering Factors and Drug Associations

• Dietary Intake: Low fruit/vegetable consumption leads to deficiency.
  
• Smoking & Alcohol: Both deplete Vitamin C stores.
  
• Chronic Illness & Hospitalization: Increase requirements and lower levels.
  
• Medications: Aspirin and oral contraceptives can lower levels; high-dose Vitamin C may interfere with some lab tests.
  
  

Conclusion

In conclusion, a comprehensive evaluation by a functional medicine practitioner integrates Vitamin C assessment into a holistic care model addressing antioxidant capacity, immune support, and vascular health. By combining precise biomarker profiling with targeted IV therapy and Regenerative Medicine services, we empower patients to rebuild resilience and optimize wellness. Call 904-799-2531 or schedule online to request your personalized assessment.

Further Reading

1. Hemilä H. “Vitamin C and Immune Function.” Nutrients. 2017;9(11):1211. PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29068476/
   
2. Pullar JM, Carr AC, Vissers MCM. “The Roles of Vitamin C in Skin Health.” Nutrients. 2017;9(8):866. PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28737555/
3. Carr AC, Cook J. “Vitamin C and Cardiovascular Health.” Nutrients. 2020;12(9):2918. PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32872349/