Magnesium ascorbate and sodium ascorbate are both supplements that combine vitamin C with other essential elements. Ascorbate is another term for vitamin C, which must be consumed regularly because human beings are one of the few species that doesn’t synthesize it internally. Both magnesium and sodium are also needed on a daily basis to sustain health. Consult with your doctor about the benefits of supplementation and how much you should be taking daily.
Importance of Vitamin C
Vitamin C enhances immunity by stimulating the production and activity of various leukocytes, which are white blood cells that combat pathogenic microorganisms, according to the “PDR for Nutritional Supplements.” Further, vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and it’s required for collagen production, which is the primary component of connective tissue. The recommended daily amounts of vitamin C for adults range near 100 milligrams, although a growing number of health professionals believe that much more may be needed for health.
Importance of Magnesium
Magnesium is important for bone structure and strength, muscle relaxation, heart rhythm, electrical conductance, immune response, B-vitamin activation, metabolism and blood sugar regulation, according to the book “Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism." The recommended daily intake of magnesium is 420 milligrams for men and 320 milligrams for women.
Importance of Sodium
Sodium is an important electrolyte and an abundant ion within the extracellular fluid. Sodium is required for the regulation of body fluids, muscle and heart contraction and enzyme function, among other important roles. Too much sodium has been linked to high blood pressure and kidney damage, so levels should be kept near 120 milligrams daily, according to the “Encyclopedia of Human Nutrition.”
Magnesium Ascorbate
Magnesium ascorbate is a supplement that provides buffered vitamin C with magnesium. A benefit to this combination is that the acidity of vitamin C is neutralized by the magnesium, which makes it gentler for your stomach, according to “The New Encyclopedia of Vitamins, Minerals, Supplements and Herbs.” Magnesium and vitamin C have some complementary functions, especially in your cardiovascular system. Too much magnesium ascorbate may cause diarrhea, so consult with your physician for appropriate doses.
Sodium Ascorbate
Sodium ascorbate is a supplement that combines vitamin C with water-soluble salt. Like magnesium ascorbate, sodium ascorbate provides a less acidic alternative to taking pure vitamin C by itself. Unlike magnesium ascorbate, sodium ascorbate is also commonly used as a food additive. Further, sodium ascorbate is considered a more bio-available source of vitamin C, which means it’s easier for your body to absorb and make use of.
References
- PDR for Nutritional Supplements; Sheldon Hendler and David Rorvik
- Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism; James L. Groff, et al.
- Encyclopedia of Human Nutrition; Benjamin Caballero, et al.
- The New Encyclopedia of Vitamins, Minerals, Supplements and Herbs; Nicola Reavley
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