Ascorbic Acid Side Effects

The human body is like a machine, which requires fuel (read food) for its proper functioning. Hence, it is important to incorporate food that is balanced with all the essential nutrients, particularly vitamins. Vitamins are important for the proper growth and functioning of the organ systems in the body. One such important vitamin that has a major role in the formation of red blood cells, connective tissues, muscles and bones, etc., is vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid. This is a water-soluble vitamin, can be gained from citrus fruits, and vegetables like broccoli, potatoes, peppers, etc.

Benefits of Including Vitamin C

Since the body cannot naturally manufacture ascorbic acid, it has to obtain it from external sources. The food we eat may not always contain the required amount of the vitamin C, hence supplements are also taken to suffice the body's needs. Given below are some of the vitamin C health benefits.

• Including food sources of vitamin C is known to prevent the occurrence of teeth and gum diseases like scurvy.
• Since ascorbic acid is a rich in antioxidants, it helps boost the immune system and fights against the free radicals in the body, keeping infections and diseases at bay.
• Vitamin C is known to keep degenerative diseases like arthritis, osteoporosis and gout etc. at bay. It relieves the inflammation of the muscles and joints.
• Other benefits of this vitamin include preventing early signs of aging, damage to the skin due to over exposure to the sun's harmful rays and reducing the eruption of acne and rosacea.

Side Effects of Ascorbic Acid

Including too much vitamin C or ascorbic acid foods or supplements can have some ill effects on the body. Though these side effects may not create any serious complications on the health, it is necessary to bring down the dosage of the supplements. Also consult your health care provider, who will guide you correctly.

An excess of vitamin C in the body can make the person nauseous. The individual may also experience vomiting and diarrhea. Though vitamin C helps cure constipation, an overdose can lead to persistent diarrhea. This can cause dehydration, due to fluid loss from the body. Other side effects of vitamin C toxicity are abdominal pain, accompanied by stomach cramps, persistent headache, ranging from moderate to severe, and dizziness.

Another side effect of too much vitamin C is destruction of the red blood cells, also known as hemolysis. If an individual is suffering from sickle-cell anemia, then it is advisable that he stay away from vitamin C and its supplements as taking ascorbic acid supplements can only make this health disorder worse. Vitamin C increases the body's tendency to absorb iron, more than the required amount. This can increase the risk of blood disorders like thalassemia and hemochromatosis.

Vitamin C can get accumulated in the kidneys, resulting in the formation of kidney stones. The symptoms that kidney stones may exhibit are lower back pain, burning sensation while urinating, traces of blood in the urine. Excess vitamin C side effects can also be seen in the form of diabetes, since ascorbic acid can raise the levels of blood sugar.

Vitamin C overdose can interact with certain medications and reduce their effect. Too much vitamin C can slow down the healing process of a surgical wound. Hence patients who have undergone surgery are advised against taking ascorbic acid supplements. Pregnant women and lactating mothers should avoid these vitamin supplements, as it can have a negative effect on the health of the child.

The supplement is also available in the form of powder. For a healthy body, it is essential to understand the importance of vitamin C and include it in the appropriate amounts in the diet. Eat healthy and stay fit!