What is the Connection Between Vitamin C and Cholesterol?

Vitamin C is an essential nutrient needed by the body every day to function properly and to help the body fight off various bacteria that it may encounter. There are some studies showing that having a deficiency of vitamin C raises the levels of low-density lipoproteins, or LDL, also known as bad cholesterol in the body. Vitamin C and cholesterol lowering abilities have been defined and analyzed, yet most people are not aware of the natural benefits of this nutrient. Many people are able to receive enough vitamin C from their diet if they are eating enough vegetables and fruits, yet there are those who do require supplementation because of the inadequate nutrient intake from their food.

It is well known that vitamin C is helpful in building the immune system and strengthening the body's defense system, which helps fight off bacteria and invading illnesses. Some researchers, however, have informed the medical establishments that vitamin C also plays a role in cardiovascular health and that vitamin C and cholesterol are very strongly linked. Many of the researchers have shown in small scale studies that vitamin C and cholesterol are so strongly connected that a simple deficiency in this vitamin can lead to high cholesterol levels and eventually heart disease and heart attack risk. Definite correlations between vitamin C and cholesterol have not been widely and distinctly proven, but the wisdom behind the correlation is widely accepted by most natural and conventional medical doctors.

Even though the connection between vitamin C and cholesterol is present in the minds of many health professionals, it remains relatively unknown in the majority of the public. The fact that vitamin C holds such an importance in building immune system capabilities and its role as an essential vitamin makes it a more scrutinized and highly prioritized. This leads many people to take the vitamin, either through diet or supplemental form, which in turn will help alleviate a deficiency which might cause heart disease later on. Other components besides vitamin C deficiency may lead to high cholesterol levels, however, so only focusing on vitamin C might take away from analyzing other health components. These components may be genetics or may be related to an inactive lifestyle or poor food choices.

The appropriate amount of vitamin C depends on age and weight, but most people receive enough vitamin C from their daily diet. Excess vitamin C is not necessarily toxic, yet excess of any beneficial item is not necessarily good, either. Vitamin C and cholesterol lowering can be seen in a large number of people, therefore making it a beneficial connection that requires more rigorous study. Speaking to a doctor about recommended vitamin C intakes is important before beginning any supplementation program.