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Answers to Frequently Asked Vitamin C Questions

Q1: What is vitamin C, and what is vitamin C used for?

A1: Vitamin C may be the most popular vitamin in all of Canada. Commonly found in foods like fresh fruit, broccoli, potatoes, and berries, vitamin C is a water-soluble antioxidant that is not produced naturally by the body.  

Vitamin C is used to:

• Protect against heart disease
• Help in the production of collagen, which aids in strengthening muscles and blood vessels
• Boost the immune system
• Promotes the healing of wounds
• Lower blood pressure
• Promote eye health
• Ward off certain cancers

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Q2: What are the various types of vitamin C available, and what are the differences?

A2: There are several different types of vitamin C available in Canada.

Ascorbic Acid

• Pure vitamin C
• May cause stomach upset because of its purity
• Is one of the least expensive forms of vitamin C

Calcium Ascorbate

• This form is bound to calcium, making it easier on the stomach
• Provides calcium as well as vitamin C

Magnesium Ascorbate

• This form of vitamin C is bound to magnesium, making it easier on the stomach
• Most easily absorbed form of vitamin C
• Provides magnesium as well as vitamin C

Ester C

• This synthetic form of calcium ascorbate is non-acidic and easily absorbed.
• One of the most expensive type of vitamin C

Vitamin C Blends

• Combine all the advantages of the above types of vitamin C
• Contain additional nutrients that enhance vitamin C uptake and absorption
• May contain premium sources of vitamin C sourced from

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Q3: What are the advantages and disadvantages of vitamin C?

A3: Like all vitamin supplements in Canada, vitamin C has its pros and cons. Whether or not vitamin C is right for you will depend upon your individual needs and goals.

Advantages of vitamin C include:

• Vitamin C supports the immune system
• Vitamin C is a natural antihistamine
• Vitamin C promotes faster healing of wounds
• Vitamin C may reduce the risk of cancer

Disadvantages of vitamin C include:

• Vitamin C can cause stomach upset and diarrhea, headaches, and fatigue
• Some studies show that excess use of vitamin C can cause kidney stones

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Q4: How and when should vitamin C be used for optimal results?

A4: Vitamin C can be taken in capsule, chewable, or liquid form. Because vitamin C is not fat soluble, which means it can’t be stored, it should be taken on a daily basis.  Women who are pregnant, smokers, people with compromised immune systems, and those who are fighting off colds or other illnesses should increase their intake.

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