Ascorbic Acid: Use And Benefits

Ascorbic acid, more commonly known as vitamin C, is full of antioxidants. The antioxidant effect of this substance refers to its ability to delay or prevent the oxidation of other cells.

Many believe that oxidative stress is involved in the development of many diseases. In many cases, it is unclear which oxidants act as triggers of the disease or whether they are just consequences. In any case, antioxidants are really important for health.  Not only to maintain the proper functioning of the body but also to prevent possible disorders.

Ascorbic acid also provides a protective shield against infections and viruses. It is an extremely effective factor in the absorption of iron as well as in strengthening bone tissue.

Physical properties of ascorbic acid

Ascorbic acid is a natural ingredient that is usually found in fruit sugar, vegetables and, to a lesser extent, protein. When separated from other substances, it has a powdery or yellowish crystalline appearance. It is colorless, odorless, solid and soluble.

Ascorbic acid is an essential antioxidant and has a pH of 2.1-2.6. As the name suggests, it is an acidic substance. This acid comes from its acidic hydrogen content. As we mentioned earlier, ascorbic acid is water soluble and a commercial form of vitamin C.

What is ascorbic acid used for?

This substance is used in many different fields. Its uses are different and vary according to the goals of the companies. Here is a list of some industries:

Cosmetics industry

As we mentioned earlier, ascorbic acid is a great antioxidant. It is a very effective feature in the manufacture of cosmetics. It is mainly used to stimulate the activity of the skin to produce collagen and to regenerate tissue enzymes. Ascorbic acid, together with vitamin E, is an important ingredient in the manufacture of anti-aging beauty products, among other things.

food industry

Ascorbic acid is naturally present in many foods and is a basic nutrient for maintaining optimal health and fitness. Still, many people don’t use it as much as they should to meet the minimum nutritional requirements.

For this reason, cooking and beverage packaging companies often use this ingredient and its mineral salts. They do so to strengthen the antioxidant ability of food.

Pharmaceutical industry

Ascorbic acid is used in the pharmaceutical industry e.g. For the preparation of vitamin C tablets. This vitamin became a dietary supplement after its discovery in 1932. It also strengthens some of the body’s biochemical processes. These supplements are usually needed by people who are unable to get enough because their bodies are unable to synthesize it.

Ascorbic acid and its benefits

The benefits of this nutrient are closely related to its use.

It is important for the skin. You will notice the effect of ascorbic acid almost immediately due to its antioxidant content. It therefore delays the aging of the skin. It also stimulates the production of natural collagen, which in turn improves the appearance of skin and tissues. Collagen is a volatile protein substance that requires hydroxylation to repair any damage that may have occurred in the body.

The organs and tissues of the body begin to weaken when there is not enough collagen. So if a person does not have enough ascorbic acid, he is more likely to suffer from scurvy – a disease that affects the skin, gums and hair.

Ascorbic acid is also essential for the proper functioning of the metabolism, as it helps in the metabolism of the following substances:

• Cholesterol
• Bile acids
• Amino acids
• Carbohydrates

It also helps in digesting other substances as well as keeping bone structures in perfect condition. It even strengthens teeth by keeping them healthy.

Other benefits of ascorbic acid include its ability to improve the elasticity of blood vessels, tendons and ligaments, and to help prevent vasodilation and clotting.

As you can see, ascorbic acid helps people with high blood pressure and atherosclerosis by getting them to avoid ischemic problems.

Summary

Ascorbic acid, or vitamin C, is a basic ingredient in the body. It must be obtained in the necessary amount through the right kind of diet. However, if that is not possible, there are supplements that may be helpful.