Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) is an important vitamin and popular dietary supplement known for its antioxidant activity. Calcium Ascorbate is the calcium salt of Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) and is a water-soluble mineral ascorbate which is commonly used as a food additive. It has the chemical formula CaC12H18O14 and a molecular weight of 426.34 g/mol.
Calcium Ascorbate (Buffered Vitamin C) Benefits and Uses
Vitamin C is a water-soluble and mineral salt that is required by humans for a variety of biological processes. Vitamin C is non-endogenous so it cannot be synthesized by the body and therefore must be obtained through consumption of external sources like fruits and vegetables or dietary supplements.
Individuals with poor absorption or low consumption of dietary fiber often take Vitamin C supplements as it is a potent antioxidant and is essential for collagen synthesis, a protein implicated in the development of tissues, bones, and muscles and the maintenance of skin elasticity. It is also involved in the biosynthesis of neurotransmitters and carnitine.
Anecdotal evidence suggests that supplementing with Calcium Ascorbate may help increase Vitamin C levels without the possible gastric irritation caused by the acidity of ascorbic acid. As a potent antioxidant, Calcium Ascorbate (Vitamin C) may also improve immune function, induce detoxification, and act as an anti-aging compound.
Calcium Ascorbate (Vitamin C) supplements are also known by a few different names, including:
- Vitamin C
- Ascorbic acid
- Acetic acid, calcium salt, dehydrate
- Calcium ascorbate dehydrate
- Calci-C
- 5743-28-2
- Calcium L-ascorbate dehydrate
- E302
- Calcium diascorbate
Scientific Consensus
Supplementing with this Calcium Ascorbate (Vitamin C) is likely to be safe for adults at doses of 1 mg/kg of body weight per day.
Calcium Ascorbate (Vitamin C) may cause side effects such as an upset stomach, loss of appetite, constipation, and diarrhea. Calcium Ascorbate (Vitamin C) may have interactions with drugs and inhibit their absorption. Consult your health care provider before taking this product. Calcium Ascorbate (Vitamin C) may also interfere with the results of certain lab tests. Inform your health care provider or laboratory personnel that you are taking this supplement.
Although rare, supplementing with this product for long periods of time may cause kidney stones. If you suffer from any kidney problems, have high calcium levels or have any allergic reactions, avoid taking Calcium Ascorbate.