Ascorbic acid is the pure form of vitamin C; however, with the combination of calcium, the supplement calcium ascorbate is produced. Because calcium ascorbate is less acidic and thus, easier on the digestive tract, it can be consumed in high doses without the possible side effects like diarrhea, rashes and stomach aches that may occur in individuals who are sensitive to taking pure vitamin C.
Best known for its importance in the human immune system, vitamin C allows the body to distinguish what is safe from what is not. It stimulates the production of unique white blood cells that are capable of devouring bacteria, viruses and other foreign invaders inside the body. In actual fact, vitamin C is crucial for maintaining healthy body processes. It is an antioxidant to the human body as it neutralizes molecules that cause cellular damage and is very effective as an anti-histamine, thus reducing inflammation and congestion. Furthermore, vitamin C is a precursor to collagen formation and consequently, is vital for sustaining healthy connective tissues and blood vessel integrity. However, supplementing one’s diet with ascorbic acid may be problematic for many people as pure vitamin C may cause side effects aforementioned. As a result, calcium ascorbate is preferred by many instead.
Calcium ascorbate offers an efficient way to supplement vitamin C and the essential mineral, calcium, at the same time. Amongst other mineral ascorbates, calcium ascorbate is a non-acidic form that can provide the same great benefits of vitamin C without upsetting the stomach and digestive system. The daily recommended intake is 100 – 300mg of any form of vitamin C. It should be noted that once the level of vitamin C reaches saturation, any excess is excreted out of the body in urine.
References: (1) http://www.nutrichem.com/Calcium-Ascorbate-54.html?vmchk=1 (2) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ascorbic_acid (3) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vitamin_C (4) http://www.add-adhd-help-center.com/Chelation/calcium_ascorbate.htm
