Buffered Vitamin C is a pH neutral (non-acidic) form of Ascorbic Acid. By combining Ascorbic Acid with various mineral carbonates, new compounds of Vitamin C are formed called Mineral Ascorbates. The three most common forms of Ascorbates are Calcium, Magnesium and Sodium, however, virtually any mineral carbonate compound can be used as a buffering agent.
This non-acidic form of Vitamin C has several unique advantages over plain Ascorbic Acid. Unlike Ascorbic Acid, Buffered Vitamin C is pH neutral so it will not lower body pH even at extremely high doses. This is an especially desirable characteristic if you suffer from any condition that results in increased acidity of the body. If you suffer from Gastric Ulcers, Ascorbic Acid may cause stomach irritation and using Buffered C ameliorates this problem. Using Ascorbic Acid at high doses often causes loose stools. This is the primary limiting factor for most people in obtaining optimal levels. Buffered Vitamin C is less likely to cause this problem enabling one to take higher doses and achieve optimal blood levels. Additionally, buffering Ascorbic Acid with a mineral slows its excretion from the body, further enhancing blood levels. Using plain Ascorbic Acid in conjunction with a buffered form simultaneously has a synergistic effect by helping to maintain steady blood levels.
The Health Benefits of Buffered Vitamin C:
Vitamin C or Ascorbic Acid is a white crystalline acidic vitamin that is water soluble in its natural form. Ascorbic Acid is essential for life and performs many vital functions in the body. Surprisingly, the RDA for adults is only 60mg per day. Real world practice has shown us that our Ascorbic Acid requirements are considerably higher than previously thought. Given its involvement in virtually every system and process in the body, it’s easy to see why maintaining optimal levels of this vitamin is so crucial to good health. Vitamin C stimulates the production of several Antibodies. IgA, IgG and IgM can be increased up to 400% by consuming 1,000mg of Vitamin C daily.
The Unique Health Benefits of Ascorbates
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The Health Benefits of Vitamin C
USAGE
There are many factors that affect one’s optimal daily dose of Vitamin C. Alcohol consumption, smoking, prescription drugs and environmental factors all increase one’s Vitamin C requirements. For optimal well-being and immune enhancement in a generally healthy person, 1,000mg three times per day with meals is usually sufficient. If you have a chronic health issue, a total daily dose around 6,000mg per day would be more appropriate. For serious illnesses such as cancer, dosages in excess of 10,000mg per day are not uncommon. When using large dosages of Ascorbic Acid, I suggest mixing various forms of Vitamin C for a synergistic effect. Other forms of Vitamin C are listed in the Vitamins Index along with their proper usage instructions.
My Personal Recommendations:
Calcium Ascorbate Molecular Structure
Calcium Ascorbate is the most common form of Buffered C found on shelves. It was first form of Buffered C to be marketed. Calcium Ascorbate is an excellent choice for those who have Osteoporosis or trouble absorbing Calcium. It it relatively inexpensive and is an excellent choice for most people. One or more of the preparations below may have added Bioflavonoids which are normally found along with Vitamin C in foods.
Calcium Ascorbate – Bulk Powder
Magnesium Ascorbate Molecular Structure
Magnesium Ascorbate is one of my favorite buffered forms of Vitamin C. Magnesium can be difficult for many people to absorb properly. By buffering Ascorbic Acid with Magnesium the absorption of both substances is greatly enhanced. This is an excellent form of Buffered C for those who struggle with Magnesium related maladies such as Cardiac Arrhythmias and Muscle Spasms or Cramping. Although the tablet form is more convenient, I prefer the powdered form as it may be taken at any time. When using the tablet form of Magnesium Ascorbate it must be taken with a meal to ensure the tablet(s) dissolve completely.
Sodium Ascorbate Molecular Structure
Sodium Ascorbate is an excellent choice for those who do not wish to add any additional minerals to their vitamin regime. Sodium Ascorbate is often the preferred form of Buffered C used in performing a “Vitamin C Flush”. This is an excellent way to clean out the bowels and detoxify the body. The Sodium in Sodium Ascorbate will not raise blood pressure.
Sodium Ascorbate – Bulk Powder
Zinc Ascorbate Molecular Structure
Zinc Ascorbate is an outstanding form of Buffered C providing excellent immune system support. Zinc Ascorbate is not available as a stand alone supplement. Thus far I have only been able to find this supplement as part of an effervescent drink supplying 1,000mg of Vitamin C and 10mg of Zinc. I chose this particular version as it has the added benefit of Arabinogalactan and Beta-Glucan, two very effective immune system enhancers. For general immune support 1-3 packets per day will do the job. When fighting a cold or the flu you may take up to 5 packets per day. Should you require more than 5,000mg of Vitamin C I suggest augmenting with another form so as to not overload with Zinc.
Zinc Ascorbate – Effervescent Blueberry Acai
Zinc Ascorbate – Effervescent Citrus
Zinc Ascorbate – Effervescent Orange
Zinc Ascorbate – Effervescent Raspberry
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