Introduction to 6 forms of vitamins

Overview of 6 forms of vitamins

1. Ascorbic acid

Ascorbic acid is the most commonly used vitamin C, and it is also the cheapest vitamin C. However, its slightly acidic content can make the digestive system difficult for some people, especially those with stomach acid problems. Many studies have used this vitamin C formula. Although ascorbic acid is synthetic, it is the same formula found in nature.

Since studies have shown that only 30% of the dose is actually absorbed, researchers have also sought other formulations that may be better absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. Ascorbic acid is available in tablets, capsules or powder. The following are mineral ascorbates.

Calcium Ascorbate: This formula contains calcium (100 mg) and ascorbic acid (900 mg) and should be considered by those looking to optimize bone health while preventing osteoporosis and osteoporosis. According to a 2018 study, one of its advantages is that it is less irritating to the stomach than the formation of ascorbic acid while maintaining the same antioxidant capacity.

Magnesium Ascorbate: This formula contains magnesium (50 to 100 mg) and 900 mg of ascorbic acid. This is a good option for those who take magnesium-lowering medicines (i.e. acid reducers and diuretics), suffer from chronic head pain, or have frequent leg cramps. Since magnesium deficiency also increases the risk of heart palpitations or arrhythmias, vitamin C magnesium can be considered in those at risk.

Sodium Ascorbate - This formula contains sodium (~100mg) and 900mg ascorbic acid. Those on a low-salt diet should avoid this formula. While most people on a low-salt diet should keep their daily total below 2,000 mg, even small amounts of salt can build up over time.

‌‌‌‌2. Ascorbic acid and vitamin C metabolites

Ascorbic acid and vitamin C metabolites are a proprietary formulation of calcium ascorbate discovered in the 1980s. It contains small amounts of vitamin C metabolites such as calcium threonate, calcium xylate, lyxonate, and dehydroascorbic acid. The manufacturer claims that it helps improve absorption and leads to higher levels of vitamin C in the blood compared to regular ascorbic acid.

A 2008 study evaluated serum and white blood cell levels after taking calcium ascorbate and regular ascorbic acid. Serum ascorbic acid content was the same in both groups. However, patients taking calcium ascorbate preparations had higher vitamin C white blood cell (leukocyte) levels.

‌‌‌‌3. Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids

Vitamin C is also combined with antioxidants called bioflavonoids. Proponents of this formula are drawn to the fact that vitamin C, which contains bioflavonoids, may be better absorbed. A 1988 study suggested this might be the case. Studies have shown that vitamin C with bioflavonoids has a 35% higher absorption rate compared to conventional ascorbic acid formulations. It's also a better option for people who may experience stomach symptoms from ascorbic acid.

‌‌‌‌4. Liposomal Vitamin C

Liposomal vitamin C is a formulation that appears to have optimized bioavailability or absorption properties. To aid in increased absorption, scientists developed liposomal vitamin C, a fat-soluble covering that helps ascorbic acid molecules pass more easily through the digestive tract. Data show that oral administration of liposomally encapsulated vitamin C results in higher blood vitamin C concentrations than unencapsulated oral formulations such as ascorbic acid, but lower than intravenous administration.

Additionally, a 2020 study showed that liposomal vitamin C lowered blood pressure in laboratory rats at lower doses.

‌‌‌‌5. Ascorbyl palmitate

This formula turns normally water-soluble vitamin C into fat-soluble. It is often added to topical vitamin C preparations so that it can be absorbed by the skin. It is also used as a suppository and food preservative. It is sometimes marketed as vitamin C ester, but should not be confused with Ester-C.

‌‌‌‌6. Rosehip Vitamin C

Vitamin C formulas containing rose hips often contain regular ascorbic acid. Rose hips are the fruit of the rose plant and contain a lot of vitamin C, which can be well absorbed. Rose hips also contain many antioxidants, including lycopene, phenols, flavonoids, ellagic acid, and vitamin E.

Collagen vitamin c health benefits

1. Increase iron absorption, thereby helping to manage anemia

2. Collagen and Skin Health

3. Heart Health

4. Immune system health

5. Maintain memory

6. Helps prevent periodontal disease

7. Helps prevent upper respiratory infections/cold

8. Helps prevent staghorn flares

9. Helps prevent sepsis (blood infection)