The body does not produce or store vitamin C and there are several options to get the recommended 75 to 95 mg a day for adults. Aside from a glass of orange juice or multivitamin, you can try vitamin C powder packets. The contents dissolve in water and can be enjoyed anytime. Vitamin C helps maintain your immune system, reduce oxidative stress and lower your blood pressure.
Mega-Doses
Several of the powder packets supply far more than the recommended daily amount of vitamin C. Both Emergen-C and Ester-C To Go provide 1,000 mg of vitamin C, which is more than 1,000 percent of the recommended daily value. These mega-doses purportedly help prevent and relieve cold and flu symptoms and may prevent heart disease. Emergen-C and Ester-C To Go are both sweetened with fructose and provide electrolytes and B vitamins in addition to vitamin C.
Organic
Organic versions of vitamin C drink mixes also are available. The companies Naturally Nova Scotia Health Products and Kakadoodle Dew both make drink mixes that use organic and natural ingredients. Naturally Nova Scotia offers a drink with 500 mg of vitamin C derived from organic Acerola berries, while Kakadoodle Dew's source of vitamin C is the Kakadu plum. The Kakadu plum has the highest amount of vitamin C of any fruit.
Considerations
Many vitamin C drinks are geared toward other effects such as energy boosts or immune system protection. Super C Energy provides an energy boost from its caffeine content, along with 1,000 mg of vitamin C plus B vitamins and amino acids. Super C Immunity offers the same amount of vitamin C and adds selenium, zinc and antioxidants for immune-bolstering effects. Emergen-C offers a drink mix with extra electrolytes and another formulated for joint health. With the variety of these drinks available on the market, you can find one tailored to almost any need.
Warning
Some forms of supplementation can cause stomach irritation. If one type irritates your stomach, try another variety. When taking vitamin C in any form, the most you should take in one day is 2,000 mg. You should strive to get your daily allowance from fruits and vegetables, which also will provide your body with many other nutrients that it needs.
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