Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid) for Children – Function, Dosage, and Scientific Facts

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The manufacturers of dietary supplements, who are constantly looking for ways to increase sales, have managed to take advantage of the popular recent misunderstanding about vitamin C. Vitamin C can be found in online stores in powder form in almost wholesale packaging under the scientific name - L-ascorbic acid.

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L-ascorbic acid – debunking the left-rotating vitamin C myth

Vitamin C, labeled as `right-handed`, is actually L-ascorbic acid, which is often confused with left-handedness. However, L does not refer to left-handedness, but to the spatial configuration of atoms around the penultimate carbon atom in the chain. In the case of L-ascorbic acid, the hydrogen and oxygen atoms are arranged on the left side of the molecule, which can lead to misunderstandings. In reality, L-ascorbic acid is right-handed.

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Physiological role of vitamin C in the developing body

Since the question of the structure of vitamin C has been resolved, its properties can be discussed. Vitamin C is a substance that is of great importance for the functioning of the body. It primarily ensures the proper functioning of the immune system (which, unfortunately, does not mean that increased intake during illness will accelerate the recovery of health). Vitamin C is the most well-known antioxidant. It can easily transfer electrons to other compounds, which is why it is also essential for the functioning of the body. First of all, it determines the proper function of the immune system (which, unfortunately, does not mean that increased intake during illness will accelerate the recovery of health). It is also known for its role in the prevention of heart disease and cancer. It can neutralize free radicals, which are known to cause damage to cells and tissues. It is also essential for the synthesis of collagen, which is a major component of connective tissue.

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Recommended daily allowances of vitamin C for children and adults

The body's needs for vitamin C are determined by the IŻŻ dietary standards, which are 90 mg for males and 75 mg daily for females. Additionally, it is easy to meet the body's demand for this vitamin with a balanced diet. Vitamin C is highly water-soluble and is mainly absorbed at the age of 12. However, it is essential to note that smoking has an adverse effect on the absorption process. Increased demand for this vitamin applies to smokers, individuals exposed to chronic stress, heavy physical exertion, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and diabetics. Some, especially those from the alternative medicine circle, advocate for taking extremely high doses of vitamin C, up to 2 g daily. However, there is insufficient evidence to suggest that this practice can cure any disease. A varied diet rich in vegetables and fruits is sufficient to meet the body's demand for vitamin C. Therefore, it is unnecessary to use dietary supplements arbitrarily.

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Natural dietary sources of vitamin C for children vs supplements

Relying on dietary supplements as the primary source of essential vitamins and elements is a judicious practice, especially in the case of children. In fact, vitamin C from food products is the same chemical compound that is contained in tablets on pharmacy shelves, but no dietary supplement can replace our vegetables or fruits. Why? In addition to vitamins or minerals, plant products also provide us with other compounds such as polyphenols or antioxidants. Therefore, they are unique in their composition and properties. The Institute of Food and Nutrition emphasizes that a well-conducted diet does not require additional supplementation. The myth of left-handed vitamin C has already been unequivocally debunked. We should be cautious in taking all kinds of dietary supplements (although there are situations in which this is recommended), not only for health reasons, but also for financial reasons.

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