How Vitamin-C works on Arthritis:

Vitamin-C is a key component in the production of collagen. Collagen is needed for the maintenance of bones, cartilage and connective tissues. The joint cartilage is made up of Type-2 collagen which deteriorates in osteoarthritis. Since vitamin-C is a cofactor in protein synthesis, it is important to maintain a baseline level of vitamin-C inside the body to help repair the cartilage. Another study suggest that Vitamin-C reduces the risk of cartilage loss and the progression of the disease among persons who are suffering knee osteoarthritis.

Side Effects and Precautions of Vitamin-C:

High dosage intake may cause hyperacidity.

Forms, Dosage and Brand Names:

Adults: Norman Shealy of "The Complete Family Guide to Alternative Medicine" suggests consuming 2 g/day of Ascorbic Acid. It is available as Ascorbic Acid, Calcium Ascorbate, Sodium Ascorbate and Magnesium Ascorbate in capsule or tablet form.

Pregnant Women: Safe and Well tolerated.

Children: Safe and Well tolerated.

References about Vitamin-C and Arthritis:

McAlindon" T.E., et al. "Do antioxidant micronutrients protect against the development and progression of knee arthritis?," Arthritis and Rheumatism 39(4):648-656. 1996.

Heliovaara, M. et al. "Serum antioxidants and risk of rheumatoid arthritis," Annals of Rheumatic Disease 53(1):51-53, 1994.

Shealy, Norman, M.D., Ph.D. (editor). The Complete Family Guide to Alternative Medicine. Rockport, Mass.: Element Books Inc., 1996.

Murray, C. "Rheumatoid Arthritis," Journal of the Australian Traditional Medicine Society (ATOMS newsletter) Winter 1994, pp. 27-29.

Page last updated: May 02, 2008