Uses And Benefits Of Ascorbic Acid

Today we will discuss the uses and benefits of ascorbic acid.

Ascorbic acid, also known as vitamin C, is a compound with significant antioxidant capacity. The antioxidant effect of a substance refers to its ability to delay or prevent cell oxidation.

Some experts suspect that oxidative stress contributes to the development of a wide variety of diseases. It is often unclear whether the oxidative stress triggered the disease or whether it is just a consequence of it. In any case, antioxidants play a very important role in health. In addition to maintaining the proper functioning of the human body, they can prevent certain diseases.

Ascorbic acid consumption has been associated with the formation of a protective barrier against infections and viruses. At the same time, it is an effective adjuvant in terms of iron absorption and strengthening of bone tissue.

Characteristics of ascorbic acid

Ascorbic acid is a natural element usually present in fruits, vegetables and, to a lesser extent, in protein sources. Once isolated, it looks like dust or yellow crystals. It is colorless, odorless, solid and soluble.

This substance is an essential antioxidant, with a pH between 2.1 and 2.6. As its name suggests, it is an acidic substance – a feature that is due to its acidic hydrogen content. As mentioned earlier, ascorbic acid is soluble in water, as is its commercial form (vitamin C).

How is ascorbic acid used?

Many industries have found ways to reap the benefits of ascorbic acid. Thus, the uses of this substance vary according to the objectives of the company concerned. Remember the following:

Cosmetics industry

Ascorbic acid is obviously an excellent antioxidant. This property is very useful when it comes to the manufacture of cosmetics. Specialists use it to stimulate the activity of regenerative tissue enzymes and the production of collagen in the skin. Along with vitamin E, ascorbic acid is an essential component in anti-aging products, among others.

Food industry

Ascorbic acid is naturally present in various foods and is a fundamental nutrient for optimal health. However, many people do not meet their daily requirement for ascorbic acid.

The good news is that beverage and food manufacturers frequently add this substance to their products to enhance their antioxidant effect.

The pharmaceutical industry

Specialists in the pharmaceutical industry use ascorbic acid to create all kinds of tablets with vitamin C. This vitamin has become a dietary supplement since it was discovered in 1932. It can facilitate many biochemical processes in the body. Vitamin C supplements are essential for people who cannot meet their daily needs through food because their body cannot synthesize it.

The benefits of ascorbic acid

The benefits of ascorbic acid are closely related to how it is used.

This substance is essential for skin care. Due to its antioxidant content, the effects of ascorbic acid will be felt almost immediately. It delays skin aging and improves its appearance by stimulating the natural production of collagen (an unstable protein that needs hydroxylation to regenerate degraded tissues).

Organs and body tissues begin to degrade when collagen reserves are too low. So, if you do not consume enough ascorbic acid, you risk developing scurvy, a disease that affects the skin, gums and hair.

At the same time, ascorbic acid is indispensable for the proper functioning of the metabolism, facilitating the metabolism of substances such as:

• Cholesterol
• Bile acids
• Amino acids
• Carbohydrates

In addition, this acid contributes to the digestion of other substances and the maintenance of optimal bone structure. For example, it can strengthen teeth, keeping them healthy.

The benefits of ascorbic acid include its ability to improve the elasticity of blood vessels, tendons and ligaments, stimulate vasodilation and prevent clotting.

Last but not least, ascorbic acid can be very useful for patients with high blood pressure or atherosclerosis, helping them to avoid ischemic problems.

conclusions

As you can see, ascorbic acid is a fundamental component of the human body. You need to consume it in adequate amounts through diet. If this is not possible, there are various supplements available.