Chemistry For Your Life Should we take Vitamin C when we're sick?
Jul 4, 2024
The discussion dives into vitamin C's powerful role in immune support, particularly during colds. One host breaks down oxidation and reduction, showcasing how this vitamin acts as both an oxidant and an antioxidant. They explore Linus Pauling's historical take on high doses, the latest research findings, and even draw amusing analogies to superheroes. The conversation also touches on elderberry as a cold remedy and teases upcoming topics on vitamin C's benefits, including its applications for pets and skincare.
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Vitamin C as Antioxidant
- Vitamin C can easily lose electrons, acting as an antioxidant by neutralizing radicals without harm.
- Its stable radical form helps protect cells from oxidative stress and damage.
Vitamin C Supports Immune Cells
- Immune cells have much higher vitamin C than blood plasma, highlighting its importance.
- Lack of vitamin C impairs immune cell movement and effectiveness in neutralizing invaders.
Immune Cells as Batmans
- Jam compares immune cells to Batmans dependent on signals and armor.
- Vitamin C acts like the bat signal, helping immune cells recognize threats and survive oxidative damage.