Vitamins - C - Optimal Absorption

If supplementing, take a vitamin C preparation that contains a high bioflavonoid content for optimal absorption.

Nitrosamines from cooked and smoked meats and carbon monoxide negatively affect absorption and/or increase the excretion of vitamin C. Coffee, tea, alcohol, excessive exercise and stress result in increased excretion of this vitamin from the body. Overcooking degrades and destroys this nutrient. Prescription drugs deplete the body's stores of vitamin C.

The following is a list of United States 1989 Recommended Daily Allowances (RDA) for minimum nutritional vitamin C intake and are included as a guideline only. These values are considered too low for most individuals, according to better nutrition authorities today. Consult with your nutritionist, naturopath, or other health practitioner for a dosage appropriate for your needs. Children under 6 years of age should be under the supervision of the above mentioned specialists if directly supplementing with vitamin C.

Current therapeutic doses range from 500mg to 5,000mg.