According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, each year, approximately 10,000 to 20,000 cases of viral encephalitis are reported in the United States. Most cases are mild, but the condition can be serious and full recovery can be prolonged. Vitamin C may help reduce your risk of developing encephalitis, but before using this vitamin for this reason, talk with your doctor about whether it is beneficial for you.
Vitamin C
To have enough vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, for healthy functioning, individuals must consistently consume foods containing this vitamin or take supplements regularly, since the body does not store vitamin C. This vitamin helps with tissue repair, strengthens the immune system, aids in wound healing and helps maintain strong bones and teeth, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. Vitamin C is an antioxidant, which means it can help protect cells from damage from free radicals, which may contribute to the development of diseases, such as cancer.
Encephalitis
Encephalitis is the term for inflammation in the brain. While viral infections are the most common cause, it may also be caused by bacterial infections, fungi or parasites, says MayoClinic.com. Individuals may be asymptomatic, but symptoms can include headache, fever, joint pain and fatigue. More serious symptoms are muscle weakness, hallucinations, severe headache and double vision. Children may have body stiffness, nausea or vomiting, lack of appetite and crying that cannot be soothed.
Vitamin C Effects on Encephalitis
Vitamin C can be a good supplement to take to bolster the immune system and keep it strong. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends taking 500 to 1,000 mg one to three times a day for immune support. A 2005 in vitro study published in "Neuroscience Letters" found that ascorbic acid helped reduce neuronal cell death due to inflammation, making inflammation less toxic to brain cells. A 2006 study published in "Current Pharmaceutical Design" found that antioxidants had neuroprotective effects against inflammation and neurodegeneration. More research needs to be done on the specific actions of vitamin C and its role regarding encephalitis, but these results are encouraging.
Considerations
Encephalitis is a serious condition, especially in infants and children, and it should be treated by a doctor immediately. Vitamin C is not meant to be a replacement for medical treatment but as a supplement to help reduce the risk of infection and protect brain cells. Talk with your doctor about whether supplementing your routine with vitamin C is appropriate for you. If you are using it while recovering from encephalitis, ask your doctor whether it is safe to do so.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid); Dr. Steven Ehrlich; 2009
- MayoClinic.com; Encephalitis: Causes; May 2011
- MayoClinic.com; Encephalitis: Symptoms; May 2011
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Viral Encephalitis; Dr. Steven Ehrlich; August 2008
- "Neuroscience Letters"; An In Vitro Model of Inflammatory Neurodegeneration and Its Neuroprotection; K. Messmer and G.P. Reynolds; 2005
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