Ester C Complex 100 VCaps

Vitamin C: Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) has numerousbiological functions. It is essential for the synthesis ofcollagen and glycosaminoglycans, which are the buildingmaterials of all connective tissues, such as skin, bloodvessels, tendons, joint cartilage and bone. Vitamin C is therequired coenzyme for two groups of enzymes that catalyzethe crosslinking of collagen fibers - lysyl hydroxylases andprolyl hydroxylases. As such, vitamin C is essential fornormal wound healing and capillary health.Vitamin C participates in the biosynthesis of carnitine,serotonin, and certain neurotransmitters, includingnorepinephrine.Vitamin C is among the most powerful antioxidants inhumans and animals. It is a water-soluble, chain-breakingantioxidant that reacts directly with superoxide, hydroxylradicals, and singlet oxygen. Laboratory studies show thatvitamin C completely protects lipids in plasma and lowdensitylipoprotein (LDL) against atherogenic peroxidativedamage. In addition, vitamin C interacts with glutathioneand alpha-lipoic acid, and regenerates vitamin E.The antioxidant functions of vitamin C appear to haveclinical significance in providing protection from free radicaldamage to the eyes, lungs, blood and the immune system.Vitamin C is absorbed in the small intestine by a sodiumdependenttransport process that is intake dependent. Atnormal dietary intakes of 60 to 100 mg, up to 80 or 90% ofthe vitamin C is absorbed. At higher intakes, absorptionbecomes less efficient. Absorption efficiency and vitamin Cutilization may be greatly enhanced during conditions ofphysiological stress, such as trauma or infection. Maximalabsorption is attained by the ingestion of several dosesspaced throughout the day rather than in one, larger dose.Citrus Bioflavonoids. The white layer of citrus peels isespecially rich in the bitter tasting flavanones hesperidin andnaringin. Citrus juices, however, are low in bioflavonoids.Like most flavonoids, those from citrus are free radicalscavenging antioxidants that work in synergy with vitaminC. Ester-C® Complex provides 100 mg of a concentratedbioflavonoid complex containing 35 mg hesperidin and 14mg naringin. This extract is essentially free of citric acid towhich some people may be sensitive.