Vitamin C is water-soluble and essential for the growth and repair of all the body's tissues. It is also needed to form collagen. Collagen is a protein used for the production of tendons, ligaments, skin and blood vessels. An adequate amount of daily vitamin C is important for people suffering from lupus, an inflammatory disorder which makes the body's immune system attack its own organs and tissues.
Lupus
Lupus is a chronic inflammatory disease. Four types of lupus exist though the most common and most serious is systemic lupus erythematosus. The inflammation causes damage to the heart, blood cells, lungs, kidneys, joints and skin. Although it is not known why, lupus is more common in women. There is currently no cure for this disease. However, with treatment it is possible for sufferers to lead full and active lives, according to Lupus Foundation of America.
Symptoms
Lupus symptoms vary widely and no two cases are exactly alike. Symptoms may develop slowly over time or may come on suddenly and be severe. Many sufferers experience a mild form of the disease with occasional flares during which symptoms worsen. The range of symptoms include low-grade fever, fatigue, weight-gain or loss, swelling and stiffness of the joints, skin lesions, shortness of breath, chest pain, dry eyes, depression and anxiety.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is not made by the body and cannot be stored in the body -- for this reason it is important to make sure you have plenty of vitamin C in your daily diet. Natural sources of vitamin C include all fruit and vegetables. Those containing the highest amount are citrus fruits, green peppers, cruciferous vegetables, Brussels sprouts, watermelons, winter squash, broccoli, pineapples, cranberries and sweet potatoes.
Lupus and Vitamin C
Vitamin C is particularly important for lupus suffers because it can help reduce inflammation and reduce damage to bones and tissue. According to Dr. Ronenn Roubenoff, senior director of Immunology Medical Research at Biogen Idec, Inc., if you suffer from lupus you should be taking at least the recommended daily allowance, RDA, of vitamin C -- either as a vitamin, whole fruit or fruit juices. Although Roubenoff says the RDA is slightly low at 100 mg, lupus sufferers should be wary of mega-dosing, excess vitamin C may cause stomach upset or kidney stones. The maximum recommended dose of vitamin C is 500 mg.
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