Possible side effects of Vitamin C

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Vitamin C is found in foods like citrus, tomatoes, potatoes and leafy vegetables. Vitamin C is essential for the body, it helps their body absorb iron. However, using vitamin C also has potential unwanted side effects.

1. Basic information about Vitamin C

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a vitamin that helps form blood vessels, cartilage, muscle, and collagen in bones. Vitamin C is also important for the body's healing process.
As an antioxidant, vitamin C can help protect cells against the effects of free radicals - molecules produced when the body breaks down food or is exposed to cigarette smoke and releases toxins. radiation. Free radicals may play a role in heart disease, cancer and other diseases. Vitamin C also helps the body absorb and store iron.
Because the body cannot produce vitamin C on its own, we need to get it from our diet. Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits, berries, potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and spinach. Vitamin C is also available as an oral supplement, typically in capsule and chewable tablet form.
People with gastrointestinal conditions and certain types of cancer may be more susceptible to vitamin C deficiency. Vitamin C is also used to increase iron absorption from the digestive tract. Severe vitamin C deficiency can lead to an illness characterized by anemia, bleeding gums, bruising, and poor wound healing. The antioxidants found in Vitamin C supplements do not have the same benefits as the natural antioxidants found in foods.
The recommended daily amount of vitamin C for adult men is 90 milligrams and for adult women is 75 milligrams.

2. Role of Vitamin C

Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can reduce the risk of many types of cancer, such as breast, colon and lung cancers. However, it is not clear whether this protective effect is related to vitamin C content in foods. Taking vitamin C supplements by mouth doesn't seem to provide the same benefit.
Taking vitamin C supplements will not prevent the common cold. However, there is some evidence that when people who regularly take vitamin C supplements get a cold, the illness lasts fewer days and the symptoms are less severe. Starting vitamin C supplements only after you have a cold does not have this effect.
Taking vitamin C supplements by mouth in combination with other vitamins and minerals may prevent age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Some studies also show that people with higher amounts of vitamin C in their diet have a lower risk of developing cataracts.
Most people will get enough vitamin C if they have a balanced diet. However, people with gastrointestinal conditions and certain types of cancer may be more susceptible to vitamin C deficiency and need to take oral supplements.

3. Side effects of Vitamin C

Oral vitamin C supplements are generally considered safe if used correctly and in the right doses. Side effects of Vitamin C tend to be dose related. Oral vitamin C supplements can cause the following side effects:
Nausea Vomiting Heartburn Inflammation that can damage the esophagus (esophagitis) A blockage that keeps food or liquid from passing through the small intestine or your large intestine (intestinal obstruction) Stomach cramps Fatigue Headache Drowsiness Diarrhea Insomnia Redness of the skin In some people, taking vitamin C by mouth can cause kidney stones. Long-term use of oral vitamin C supplements above 2,000 milligrams per day increases the risk of side effects significantly.
If you are taking vitamin C supplements, notify your healthcare provider before performing any medical tests. Because high vitamin C levels can affect the results of certain tests, such as stool tests for blood glucose screening tests.
For some side effects such as allergic urticaria; shortness of breath; face swelling, it is necessary to go to medical facilities immediately and stop using Vitamin C in cases such as:
Joint pain, weakness or fatigue, weight loss, stomach pain; Chills, fever, increased urge to urinate, painful or difficult urination; Severe pain in your side or lower back, blood in your urine.

4. Interactions when using Vitamin C

Taking vitamin C may increase aluminum absorption from aluminum-containing medicines, such as phosphate binders. This can be harmful for people with kidney problems. Using antioxidants during chemotherapy may decrease the effectiveness of the drug.
Taking vitamin C with birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy can increase your estrogen levels.
Taking vitamin C by mouth may reduce the effectiveness of these antiviral drugs.
Taking vitamin C with niacin, which may be beneficial for people with high cholesterol, may decrease the effects of niacin. High doses of vitamin C can reduce the response to anticoagulants.

5. Do's and Don'ts when using Vitamin C

5.1 Shouldn't

Although Vitamin C is very essential for the body, it is still not recommended to use Vitamin C in the following cases.
Do not use Vitamin C if you have ever had an allergic reaction to vitamin C supplements. Have kidney disease or have a history of kidney stones; Hereditary iron overload disorder (hematochromatosis); or smoke (smoking can make Vitamin C less effective). Vitamin C needs and doses may vary during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Do not use Vitamin C without your doctor's advice in either case.

5.2 Should

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as directed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Dietary vitamin C supplements change with age. Drink plenty of fluids while you're taking Vitamin C. It's important to measure the dose with a spoon or cup before taking it. If a dosimeter is not available, consult a healthcare professional. When taking Vitamin C, it is best not to chew it, but to dissolve it in the mouth. Vitamin C should be stored at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not suddenly stop using Vitamin C after a long-term use with high doses because it may cause vitamin C deficiency in the body. Symptoms of Vitamin C deficiency include bleeding gums, feeling very tired, and red or blue spots around hair follicles. If you intend to reduce the dose, it is necessary to consult a doctor. If you forget to drink, take it as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for the scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the dose. If you overdose and get poisoned, you need to go to medical facilities immediately. Vitamin C is essential for maintaining the health of skin, cartilage, teeth, and bones, and for protecting the body's cells from damage. However, as with other medicines, keep it out of the reach of children, do not share it with others, and use it exactly as directed.
Articles refer to sources: drugs.com, mayoclinic.org, webmd.com
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