Prevent and reverse infections with vitamin C

(NaturalHealth365) Vitamin C benefits are well-known, including bringing support to the immune system and to overall health. This powerful antioxidant can help to fend off colds and flu. Additional vitamin C benefits include supporting the cardiovascular system and the health of the bones, kidneys and respiratory system.

Even better news, vitamin C is affordable and well-tolerated by most people eating vitamin C-rich foods as well as in supplement form.

But, here’s a lesser-known truth: Vitamin C is being recognized for its efficacy as an affordable and effective way to fight off infections like pneumonia, even conditions as severe as sepsis.  Sepsis, or blood poisoning, is a dangerous bacterial infection that causes an immune system overreaction, reduced oxygen and increased toxins in the blood, blood clots and eventually organ failure. The mortality rate is a steep 40 percent.

Ignored by hospitals: High dose vitamin C therapy can eliminate the threat of sepsis

Vitamin C has been found very effective in the treating, prevention and even reversal of infections like sepsis. In a recent animal study, mice infected with the severe, life-threatening infection were dramatically assisted by injections of vitamin C. This study was published in 2010 in Intensive Care Medicine and conducted by Lawson Health Research Institute at the University of Western Ontario. Researchers indicate there are similar human vitamin C benefits.

Vitamin C addresses infections like sepsis by offsetting the oxidative reaction, reducing blood clotting and stimulating nitric oxide production. This helps to stop the microvascular dysfunction that could otherwise cause organ failure. In the case of sepsis or other serious infections, even a single high dose of vitamin C via injection could make a tremendous difference in health.

Another study published in Annals of Surgery in 2002 showed that critically ill patients could benefit greatly from high doses of vitamin C as well, with doses of vitamin C as well as vitamin E substantially lowering mortality rates.

Vitamin C benefits are far reaching, from cell repair to fighting infections

The effectiveness of vitamin C is largely due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities. It plays a vital role in the repair and growth of new tissues as well as building skin collagen, making it critical for wound healing.

Vitamin C has also been shown to suppress cell damage and contribute to a longer life span.  Inadequate vitamin C levels are linked with increased risk of heart attack, stroke, high blood pressure, atherosclerosis and cancer.

Since vitamin C is not stored in the body, diet and supplementation are key to getting enough of this life-sustaining nutrient.  Most government-sponsored health agencies suggest a ridiculously low 75 mg per day for women and 90 mg for men.  (This amount would barely keep a mouse healthy)

Bottom line: Larger doses are recommended, by most integrative healthcare providers, whenever trying to resolve a serious health crisis – as part of an overall strategy to boost immune function.

References:

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23917525

http://www.lifeextension.com/Magazine/2006/10/report_vitaminc/Page-01

http://www.naturalhealth365.com/vitamin-c-benefits-reversing-blood-poisoning-1161.html