Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin C (sodium ascorbate)
For the health condition: Anemia

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Vitamin C (sodium ascorbate) is scientifically validated as a supportive treatment for certain types of anemia, especially iron deficiency anemia. The primary mechanism is its ability to enhance the absorption of non-heme iron (the form of iron found in plant-based foods and supplements) in the gastrointestinal tract. Vitamin C reduces ferric iron (Fe³⁺) to the more absorbable ferrous form (Fe²⁺), facilitating its uptake in the duodenum. Several clinical studies, including randomized controlled trials, have demonstrated that co-administration of vitamin C with oral iron increases serum iron levels and improves hemoglobin synthesis more effectively than iron alone. This is reflected in clinical guidelines, which often recommend vitamin C supplementation alongside oral iron therapy for iron deficiency anemia.

However, vitamin C does not treat anemia directly; its benefit is specific to cases where iron absorption is a limiting factor. It is not effective in anemias unrelated to iron deficiency, such as those caused by vitamin B12 or folate deficiencies, chronic disease, or genetic conditions like sickle cell anemia.

In summary, the use of vitamin C to support the treatment of iron deficiency anemia is well-supported by scientific evidence. Its routine use is particularly justified in populations at risk for poor iron absorption, such as vegetarians, pregnant women, and individuals with gastrointestinal disorders.

More about Vitamin C (sodium ascorbate)
More about Anemia

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Products containing Vitamin C (sodium ascorbate)

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