Vitamin C
Multiple studies have demonstrated vitamin C to possess cancer-fighting properties, although its effectiveness in preventing cancer is controversial; high-dose protocol (6 g daily for a few weeks ever
Why It Matters for Longevity
Multiple studies have demonstrated vitamin C to possess cancer-fighting properties, although its effectiveness in preventing cancer is controversial; high-dose protocol (6 g daily for a few weeks every 6 months) discussed with oncologist for cancer prevention Vitamin C may enhance immune function, support collagen synthesis, and act as an antioxidant against DNA-damaging reactive oxygen species. Alzheimer's disease patients have lower levels of vitamin C; deficiency may contribute to Alzheimer's disease Vitamin C is a potent water-soluble antioxidant; deficiency may accelerate oxidative neuronal damage contributing to brain aging. Meta-analysis (PMID 24377461) found plasma vitamin C levels are inversely associated with all-cause mortality; individuals in the highest quartile had 20% lower mortality risk (PubMed) High-dose intravenous vitamin C in cancer patients (PMID 26609001) showed improved quality of life and reduced inflammation markers; consistent with Longo's discussion of its potential cancer-fighting properties (PubMed)
How to Use It
Pairs well with lemon, bell peppers, spinach. Use as a nutrient in your daily meals according to the Longevity Diet guidelines.
What to Pair It With
| Ingredient | Why | Tradition |
|---|---|---|
| lemon | See synergies | nutritional science |
| bell peppers | See synergies | nutritional science |
| spinach | See synergies | nutritional science |
| iron-rich foods | See synergies | nutritional science |
Synergies
- Iron-Rich Foods (synergy): Vitamin C reduces ferric to ferrous iron, enhancing non-heme iron absorption by up to 3-fold; critical pairing for plant-based diets - Vitamin E (synergy): Vitamin C regenerates oxidized vitamin E (tocopheroxyl radical) back to its active form, creating a synergistic antioxidant network - Collagen-Containing Foods (synergy): Vitamin C is an essential cofactor for prolyl and lysyl hydroxylase enzymes required for collagen cross-linking and structural integrity
Flavor Profile
Category: micronutrient / supplement.
The Science
- PubMed: Meta-analysis (PMID 24377461) found plasma vitamin C levels are inversely associated with all-cause mortality; individuals in the highest quartile had 20% lower mortality risk - PubMed: High-dose intravenous vitamin C in cancer patients (PMID 26609001) showed improved quality of life and reduced inflammation markers; consistent with Longo's discussion of its potential cancer-fighting properties - Examine.com: Vitamin C is the primary water-soluble antioxidant; regenerates vitamin E, enhances non-heme iron absorption, is essential for collagen and carnitine synthesis; deficiency linked to impaired immunity and accelerated aging - Book claim (medium confidence): Multiple studies have demonstrated vitamin C to possess cancer-fighting properties, although its effectiveness in preven - Book claim (medium confidence): Alzheimer's disease patients have lower levels of vitamin C; deficiency may contribute to Alzheimer's disease
Key Nutrients
| Nutrient | Per 100g | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| L-Ascorbic acid | RDA: 75–90 mg/day adults | Water-soluble; absorption is dose-dependent, near 100% at low doses, ~50% at 1250 mg; excess is renally excreted |
| Dehydroascorbic acid (oxidized form) | N/A | Also absorbed via glucose transporters; rapidly reduced back to ascorbate intracellularly |
| Bioflavonoids (in whole food sources) | variable | Co-present in citrus and berries; may enhance ascorbate bioavailability and provide synergistic antioxidant effects |