Vitamin C and the Brain : more than orange juice

The scurvy and the sea : a unique story

We all know that vitamin C is good for us. In fact, it is essential. It plays an essential role in the immune system and allow us not to sink in scurvy. This little molecule was very likely present in the first puddle of water that created life, among with other molecules like niacin (vitamin B3), magnesium and so on. It helps almost 300 enzymes in the body, fights fatigue and synthesize collagen. Every winter, pharmacy shelves are regularly cleared out by patients wanting to avoid getting sick and catching the dreaded cold. The RDA (Recommended Daily Allowance) for vitamin C is approximately 50 to 70mg a day. It is the medium amount that one can hope to get from regular vegetables and fruits bought at the grocery store. The concept of “well balanced diet” that prevails in medical schools is based on the fact that nutritional needs are supposed to be met by diet. This is why RDAs are based on diet. However, it is entirely possible to increase and improve one's vitamin status through supplementation. Even if this is difficult for a doctor to justify. Some people, especially the functional medicine approach, has taken a different stance on this question.