Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) has scientific evidence supporting its role in maintaining arterial health, though the evidence is moderate rather than conclusive. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that acts as a potent antioxidant, protecting the vascular endothelium (the inner lining of arteries) from oxidative stress, which is a known contributor to atherosclerosis and arterial stiffness. Several observational studies have linked higher vitamin C intake or plasma levels with improved endothelial function and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. For example, a review published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2008) found that vitamin C supplementation can improve endothelial-dependent vasodilation, an indicator of arterial health, especially in individuals with low baseline vitamin C status.

However, large-scale randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have yielded mixed results. Some RCTs have shown mild improvements in arterial stiffness and blood pressure with vitamin C supplementation, while others have not found significant cardiovascular benefits in the general population. The mechanism of benefit is thought to be related to vitamin C’s ability to regenerate tetrahydrobiopterin, a cofactor for nitric oxide synthase, supporting nitric oxide production and thus promoting vasodilation.

Historically, vitamin C deficiency (scurvy) is known to cause vascular fragility and bleeding, reinforcing its importance for vascular integrity. While vitamin C is not a cure for arterial disease, there is moderate scientific support for its role in maintaining arterial structure and function, particularly in populations with inadequate intake or increased oxidative stress.

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Other body systems supported by vitamin C

Products containing vitamin C

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