Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, plays an important role in maintaining human health by having a significant impact on the immune system and protecting cells from oxidative stress.
One of the key uses of vitamin C is in the prevention of cardiovascular disease.
In recent years, studies have increasingly confirmed that regular consumption of vitamin C can significantly reduce the risk of pathologies such as hypertension, atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease.
Antioxidant properties of vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps neutralize free radicals in the body.
Free radicals are molecules that can damage cells and tissues, leading to inflammation and chronic diseases, including heart and vascular disease.
Oxidative stress plays an important role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis, which is characterized by the accumulation of lipid deposits in the arteries, which impairs their patency.
Vitamin C helps reduce oxidative damage to vascular cells, contributing to their protection and improving their function.
This becomes especially important for people at increased risk of cardiovascular disease, such as smokers, people with hypertension and diabetic patients.
Vitamin C and cardiovascular disease
Cardiovascular disease is one of the leading causes of death worldwide.
Several large studies have shown that vitamin C deficiency can contribute to the development of diseases such as hypertension, atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease.
For example, a study published in The Lancet demonstrated that regular vitamin C supplementation helps to lower blood pressure levels and improve vascular endothelial function.
Another study from the University of Cambridge found that the antioxidant activity of vitamin C helps slow the progression of atherosclerosis in high-risk patients.
This study also showed that vitamin C can lower “bad” cholesterol (LDL) and increase “good” cholesterol (HDL), which is also an important factor in preventing cardiovascular disease.
Table 1: Foods rich in vitamin C
| Product | Vitamin C content (mg per 100 g) |
|---|---|
| Kiwi | 92 |
| Bell pepper | 128 |
| Citrus fruits | 50-70 |
| Rosehip | 1250 |
| Strawberries | 59 |
Use of vitamin C in the prevention of cardiovascular disease
For effective prevention of cardiovascular disease, vitamin C is recommended to be consumed not only in the form of food, but also in the form of supplements.
However, it is important to remember that the greatest effect is achieved when vitamin C is combined with other antioxidants such as vitamin E and flavonoids. This enhances its antioxidant activity and has a complex effect on the body.
Foods rich in vitamin C can be included in the daily diet.
It is important to vary your diet to get vitamin C from different sources.
For example, fresh fruits and vegetables such as citrus fruits, kiwi, bell peppers and rose hips are excellent sources of this vitamin.
Vitamin C can also be obtained in the form of supplements, especially for people who are deficient in this vitamin.
Effect of vitamin C dosage on vascular health
In order for vitamin C to have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system, it is important to follow the correct dosage.
Studies show that vitamin C intake in doses of 500 to 1000 mg per day is recommended for the prevention of cardiovascular disease.
For people at increased risk of cardiovascular disease, such as patients with hypertension or diabetes, the dosage can be increased to 1500 mg per day.
It is important to note that excessive intake of vitamin C can lead to side effects such as digestive disorders, diarrhea and increased oxalate levels in the body.
Therefore, the dosage should be tailored to individual needs and doctor’s recommendations.
Table 2: Vitamin C dosage in supplements for the prevention of cardiovascular disease
| Risk group | Recommended dosage of vitamin C (mg/day) |
|---|---|
| Healthy adults | 500-1000 |
| Patients with hypertension | 1000-1500 |
| Patients with atherosclerosis | 1000-2000 |
| People who smoke | 1000-1500 |
Conclusion
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that has a significant impact on cardiovascular health.
Its regular consumption helps to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, hypertension and other heart diseases.
It is important to remember that to achieve the best effect, vitamin C should be used in combination with other antioxidants and in recommended doses.
To prevent cardiovascular disease, you should aim for a balanced diet rich in vitamin C and, if necessary, use supplements under medical supervision.
List of references
- Carr AC, Maggini S. Vitamin C and immune function. Nutrients. 2017.
- Vita JA. Vitamin C and cardiovascular disease: a review of the evidence. Am J Clin Nutr. 1993.
- Wang J, et al. The role of vitamin C in the prevention of cardiovascular disease. J Am Coll Nutr. 2009.
- Reddy A, et al. Impact of vitamin C supplementation on hypertension and cardiovascular health. The Lancet, 2021.
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