|
MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS AND VITAMIN C Patients with Multiple Sclerosis may benefit from Vitamin C supplements for several reasons: 1. Antioxidant ANTIOXIDANT Vitamin C is the body's primary water soluble antioxidant. It also exists in a fat soluble form - Ascorbyl Palmitate. It is also necessary for the production of Glutathione peroxidase, one of the most important enzymes for protecting myelin and other lipid membranes. Ginkgo biloba extract increases the antioxidant effect of Vitamin C. DETOXIFICATION / HEAVY METALS Vitamin C is necessary for production of Glutathione. Mercury, lead, and other toxic heavy metals as well as many other fat soluble toxins are combined with Glutathione and then excreted from the body in the urine. Deficiency of Glutathione may lead to accumulation of these toxins. Taking Vitamin C supplements will increase the glutathione levels in the liver. OTHER ANTIOXIDANTS Vitamin C is used to regenerate Vitamin E, the body's primary fat (lipid) soluble antioxidant and prolong its actions. Vitamin C improves the activity of Beta-Carotene and several important antioxidant enzymes: glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dimutase and catalase. SAFETY / CAUTIONS Vitamin C is safe and has very few side effects. However, it does increase iron absorption and could result, at least theoretically, in excess iron accumulation in the body. DOSAGE Recommendations range to 500 mg per day to 3 grams per day or more. |