Vitamin c and calcium
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The Interplay Between Vitamin C and Calcium: Implications for Health
Vitamin C and Calcium Signaling in the Brain
Vitamin C's Role in Antioxidant Defense and Calcium Regulation
Vitamin C, known for its potent antioxidant properties, plays a crucial role in protecting cellular elements from oxidative stress by neutralizing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and free radicals. In the brain, vitamin C is essential for maintaining proper neurotransmission and brain function. A deficiency in vitamin C can lead to disturbances in these processes, highlighting its importance in neurological health. One of the key signaling ions in the brain is calcium, which is vital for various neuronal processes, including growth, development, and neurotransmission. Vitamin C has been shown to regulate calcium-involved pathways, ensuring proper brain function under both physiological and stress conditions .
Vitamin C and Bone Health
Impact on Bone Mineral Density (BMD)
Vitamin C is a critical cofactor in collagen formation, which is essential for bone health. Studies have shown a positive association between dietary vitamin C intake and bone mineral density (BMD) in postmenopausal women. For instance, the PEPI study found that higher dietary vitamin C intake was associated with increased BMD at the femoral neck and total hip, particularly in women with higher calcium intake . Similarly, another study indicated that vitamin C supplement use was linked to higher BMD levels, especially when combined with calcium and estrogen therapy . These findings suggest that vitamin C, in conjunction with calcium, can significantly enhance bone health and potentially prevent osteoporosis .
Vitamin C and Calcium Absorption
Enhancing Calcium Utilization
Vitamin C has been found to play a role in the absorption and utilization of calcium. In fish studies, a vitamin C-deficient diet led to decreased calcium absorption and utilization, indicating the importance of vitamin C in maintaining calcium homeostasis . Additionally, vitamin C may act as a stabilizing agent for calcium in the body, aiding in its absorption and maintenance of ionized calcium levels in the serum .
Vitamin C, Calcium, and Periodontal Health
Effects on Periodontal Pathogens and Systemic Health
Supplementation with vitamin C, calcium threonate, and citrus flavonoids has shown promising results in improving periodontal health. In a study involving a rural population with poor dietary conditions, this supplementation significantly reduced the subgingival load of periodontal pathogens and improved systemic health markers such as plasma vitamin C levels, HbA1c, and hsCRP . This suggests that vitamin C and calcium supplementation can have beneficial effects beyond bone health, extending to oral and systemic health.
Vitamin C and Calcium in Eggshell Quality
Influence on Laying Hens
In laying hens, the addition of vitamin C to diets with varying levels of calcium and vitamin D3 showed mixed results. While vitamin C improved egg weight and size, it did not significantly enhance shell quality or bone mineralization under the conditions of the experiments . This indicates that the benefits of vitamin C on calcium-related outcomes may vary depending on the specific context and species.
Conclusion
The interplay between vitamin C and calcium is multifaceted, impacting various aspects of health from brain function to bone density and periodontal health. Vitamin C enhances calcium absorption and utilization, supports bone mineral density, and contributes to overall systemic health. These findings underscore the importance of adequate vitamin C and calcium intake for maintaining optimal health across different physiological systems.
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