Vitamin C to protect children's health: daily dosage and features of taking ascorbic acid. Vitamin C tablets for children and adults - instructions for use and indications, dosage and price

Release form: Solid dosage forms. Effervescent tablets.

General characteristics. Compound:

Active ingredient: ascorbic acid 1 g

Excipients: sodium bicarbonate, sodium carbonate, citric acid, sorbitol, lemon flavor, sodium riboflavin phosphate, sodium saccharinate, macrogol 6000, sodium benzoate, povidone K-30.

Active ingredient: ascorbic acid 250 mg

Excipients: sodium bicarbonate, sodium carbonate, citric acid, sucrose, orange flavor, sodium riboflavin phosphate, sodium saccharinate, macrogol.

Pharmacological properties:

Ascorbic acid is a vitamin, has a metabolic effect, is not formed in the human body, and comes only with food. With an unbalanced and inadequate diet, a person experiences a deficiency in ascorbic acid.
Participates in the regulation of redox processes, carbohydrate metabolism, blood clotting, tissue regeneration; increases the body's resistance to infections, reduces vascular permeability, reduces the need for vitamins B1, B2, A, E, folic acid, pantothenic acid.
Participates in the metabolism of phenylalanine, tyrosine, folic acid, norepinephrine, histamine, iron, utilization of carbohydrates, synthesis of lipids, proteins, carnitine, immune reactions, hydroxylation of serotonin, enhances the absorption of non-heme iron. It has antiplatelet and pronounced antioxidant properties.
Regulates hydrogen transport in many biochemical reactions, improves the use of glucose in the tricarboxylic acid cycle, participates in the formation of tetrahydrofolic acid and tissue regeneration, the synthesis of steroid hormones, collagen, procollagen.
Maintains the colloidal state of the intercellular substance and normal capillary permeability (inhibits hyaluronidase).
Activates proteolytic enzymes, participates in the metabolism of aromatic amino acids, pigments and cholesterol, promotes the accumulation of glycogen in the liver. Due to the activation of respiratory enzymes in the liver, it enhances its detoxification and protein-forming functions, and increases the synthesis of prothrombin.
Improves bile secretion, restores exocrine function of the pancreas and endocrine function of the thyroid gland.
Regulates immunological reactions (activates the synthesis of antibodies, C3 component of complement, interferon), promotes phagocytosis, increases the body's resistance to infections. Inhibits the release and accelerates the degradation of histamine, inhibits the formation of prostaglandins and other mediators of inflammation and allergic reactions.
In low doses (150-250 mg/day orally) it improves the complexing function of deferoxamine in chronic iron supplementation, which leads to increased excretion of the latter.

Pharmacokinetics. Absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract (mainly in the jejunum). With an increase in dose to 200 mg, up to 140 mg (70%) is absorbed; with a further increase in dose, absorption decreases (50-20%). Communication with plasma proteins - 25%. Gastrointestinal diseases (peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum, constipation or helminthic infestation), consumption of fresh fruit and vegetable juices, alkaline drinking reduce the absorption of ascorbate in the intestine.

The normal concentration of ascorbic acid in plasma is approximately 10-20 mcg/ml, body reserves are about 1.5 g when taking daily recommended doses and 2.5 g when taking 200 mg/day, the time to reach Cmax after oral administration is 4 hours. Easy penetrates into leukocytes, platelets, and then into all tissues; the highest concentration is achieved in the glandular organs, leukocytes, liver and lens of the eye; deposited in the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland, adrenal cortex, ocular epithelium, interstitial cells of the seminal glands, ovaries, liver, spleen, pancreas, lungs, kidneys, intestinal wall, heart, muscles, thyroid gland; penetrates the placenta. The concentration of ascorbic acid in leukocytes and platelets is higher than in erythrocytes and plasma. In deficiency states, leukocyte concentrations decline later and more slowly and are considered a better measure of deficiency than plasma concentrations.

Metabolized primarily in the liver into deoxyascorbic acid and further into oxaloacetic and diketogulonic acids.

It is excreted by the kidneys, through the intestines, with sweat, and breast milk in the form of unchanged ascorbate and metabolites.

When high doses are prescribed, the rate of elimination increases sharply. Smoking and drinking ethanol accelerate the destruction of ascorbic acid (conversion into inactive metabolites), sharply reducing reserves in the body. Excreted during hemodialysis.

Indications for use:

For tablets containing 1000 mg ascorbic acid
- treatment of vitamin C deficiency.

For tablets containing 250 mg ascorbic acid
Treatment and prevention of hypo- and C, incl. caused by a state of increased need for ascorbic acid with:
- increased physical and mental stress;
— in complex therapy;
- for asthenic conditions;
- during the recovery period after illnesses.
— pregnancy (especially multiple pregnancy, against the background of nicotine or drug addiction).

Important! Get to know the treatment

Directions for use and dosage:

The drug is taken orally after meals. 1 tablet is dissolved in a glass of water (200 ml). The tablets should not be swallowed, chewed or dissolved in the mouth.
Treatment of vitamin C deficiency: 1000 mg/day.
Treatment and prevention of hypo- and vitamin deficiency C: 250 mg 1-2 times a day.
During pregnancy, the drug is prescribed at a maximum daily dose of 250 mg for 10-15 days.

Features of application:

Foods rich in ascorbic acid: citrus fruits, greens, vegetables (peppers, broccoli, cabbage, tomatoes, potatoes). When storing food (including long-term freezing, drying, salting, pickling), cooking (especially in copper utensils), chopping vegetables and fruits in salads, and preparing purees, ascorbic acid is partially destroyed (up to 30-50% during heat treatment).

Due to the stimulating effect of ascorbic acid on the synthesis of corticosteroid hormones, it is necessary to monitor adrenal function and blood pressure.

With long-term use of large doses, inhibition of the function of the pancreatic insular apparatus is possible, so it must be regularly monitored during treatment. In patients with high iron levels in the body, ascorbic acid should be used in minimal doses.

Currently, the effectiveness of using ascorbic acid for the prevention of diseases of the cardiovascular system and certain types is considered unproven.

Prescribing ascorbic acid to patients with rapidly proliferating and intensively metastasizing tumors can aggravate the process.

Ascorbic acid as a reducing agent can distort the results of various laboratory tests (blood glucose, bilirubin, liver transaminase and LDH activity).

Side effects:

From the side of the central nervous system: with long-term use of large doses (more than 1000 mg) - increased excitability of the central nervous system, insomnia.

From the digestive system: irritation of the gastrointestinal mucosa, with prolonged use of large doses - diarrhea, hyperacidity, ulceration of the gastrointestinal mucosa.

From the endocrine system: inhibition of the function of the insular apparatus of the pancreas (hyperglycemia, glycosuria).

From the urinary system: moderate (when taking a dose of more than 600 mg/day), with long-term use of large doses - hyperoxaluria, nephrolithiasis (from calcium oxalate), damage to the glomerular apparatus of the kidneys.

From the cardiovascular system: with long-term use of large doses - a decrease in capillary permeability (possible deterioration of tissue trophism, increased blood pressure, hypercoagulation, development of microangiopathies).

Other: hypervitaminosis, metabolic disorders, feeling of heat, with prolonged use of large doses - sodium and fluid retention, metabolic disorders of zinc and copper.

Interaction with other drugs:

Increases the concentration of benzylpenicillin and tetracyclines in the blood; at a dose of 1 g/increases the bioavailability of ethinyl estradiol (including that included in oral contraceptives).

Improves the absorption of iron preparations in the intestines (converts ferric iron to divalent iron), can increase the excretion of iron when used simultaneously with deferoxins no.

Reduces the effectiveness of heparin and indirect anticoagulants.

Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), oral contraceptives, fresh juices and alkaline drinks reduce the absorption and absorption of ascorbic acid.

When used simultaneously with ASA, the urinary excretion of ascorbic acid increases and the excretion of ASA decreases. ASA reduces the absorption of ascorbic acid by approximately 30%.

Increases the risk of developing crystalluria during treatment with salicylates and short-acting sulfonamides, slows down the excretion of acids by the kidneys, increases the excretion of drugs that have an alkaline reaction (including alkaloids), and reduces the concentration of oral contraceptives in the blood.

Increases the overall clearance of ethanol, which, in turn, reduces the concentration of ascorbic acid in the body.

Quinoline drugs, calcium chloride, salicylates, and glucocorticosteroids deplete ascorbic acid reserves with long-term use.

When used simultaneously, it reduces the chronotropic effect of isoprenaline.

Long-term use or use in high doses may interfere with the disulfiram-ethanol interaction.

In high doses, it increases the excretion of mexiletine by the kidneys.

Barbiturates and primidone increase the excretion of ascorbic acid in the urine.

Reduces the therapeutic effect of neuroleptics - phenothiazine derivatives, tubular reabsorption of amphetamine and tricyclic antidepressants.

Contraindications:

- children under 18 years of age (for this dosage form);
- with long-term use in large doses (more than 500 mg): hyperoxaluria, nephrolithiasis;
- hypersensitivity to the components of the drug

With caution: diabetes mellitus, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, hemochromatosis, sideroblastic, thalassemia, hyperoxaluria, oxalosis,.

Use of the drug VITAMIN C during pregnancy and breastfeeding
The minimum daily requirement for ascorbic acid in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy is about 60 mg. It should be borne in mind that the fetus can adapt to high doses of ascorbic acid taken by a pregnant woman, and then the newborn may develop withdrawal symptoms.
The minimum daily requirement during lactation is 80 mg. A maternal diet containing adequate amounts of ascorbic acid is sufficient to prevent deficiency in the infant. Theoretically, there is a danger to the baby when the mother uses high doses of ascorbic acid (it is recommended that a nursing mother not exceed the daily requirement for ascorbic acid).

Use in children
Contraindicated:
- children under 18 years of age (for this dosage form).

Overdose:

Symptoms: with long-term use of large doses (more than 1000 mg/day), nausea, diarrhea, irritation of the gastrointestinal mucosa, spastic abdominal pain, frequent urination, nephrolithiasis, insomnia, irritability, are possible.

Treatment: symptomatic. If any side effects occur, you should stop taking the drug and consult a doctor.

Storage conditions:

Store in a dry place, protected from light, at a temperature of 15 °C to 25 °C. Keep out of the reach of children.

Vacation conditions:

Over the counter

Package:

Effervescent tablets 250 mg: 20 pcs.
Effervescent tablets 1 g: 20 pcs.

Ascorbic acid is involved in all metabolic processes at the cellular level. To enrich the body with an essential antioxidant, the first thing you need to do is change your daily diet. To eliminate and prevent symptoms of vitamin deficiency, doctors additionally prescribe medications with vitamin C. Positive dynamics are observed already at the beginning of the course. It is important to clarify that single-component medications containing vitamin C have several forms of release. First you need to find out the feasibility of such a pharmaceutical prescription.

Functions of Vitamin C

Ascorbic acid is found in most foods, but is not retained in the body. To ensure and maintain vitamin balance, doctors prescribe a tablet form of vitamin C. The benefits of ascorbic acid, which is a natural antioxidant:

• increasing hemoglobin, treating iron deficiency anemia;
• normalization of blood pressure;
• acceleration of iron metabolism;
• normalization of cholesterol levels in the blood in diabetes mellitus;
• removal of toxins, poisons, waste;
• strengthening local immunity;
• synthesis of collagen and elastin for skin rejuvenation;
• acceleration of metabolism;
• removal of free radicals;
• synthesis of leukocytes;
• regeneration of injured tissues due to chemical and thermal damage;
• moderate diuretic effect;
• participation in the formation of female hormones;
• suppression of the inflammatory process;
• treatment and prevention of diseases of the cardiovascular system.

Indications for use of vitamin C

Ascorbic acid is necessary to strengthen the immune system. Taking vitamin C tablets is recommended for seasonal vitamin deficiency or after an illness. The list of medical indications does not end here:

• mental and physical exhaustion;
• frequent bleeding from the gums;
• alcohol abuse (cell destruction by toxic substances);
• hemorrhagic diathesis;
• peeling of the skin of various etiologies;
• arterial hypertension;
• hair loss and fading;
• cold;
• diseases of the cardiovascular system;
• bronchial asthma;
• oncological diseases (for prevention).

To effectively treat acute deficiency of ascorbic acid, doctors prescribe effervescent vitamin C. Such tablets are included in the complex treatment of asthenic conditions, scurvy, bleeding of various etiologies, body poisoning, and hepatitis. Helps eliminate iron deficiency anemia, long-term non-healing wounds, injuries, burns. Self-medication is contraindicated because it is harmful to the patient’s health.

Directions for use and dosage

Vitamin C effervescent tablets are intended for oral administration. A single dose of the medicine must first be diluted in a glass of warm water. Vitamin C 1000 mg is the maximum daily dosage, which is allowed to be taken only after eating food. The indicated amount can be divided into two approaches - in the morning and in the evening closer to bedtime.

Tablets should not be chewed or dissolved. After interacting with water, you need to thoroughly mix the resulting composition until the crystals are completely dissolved. For reliable prevention, the indicated dose of tablets can be diluted with 250 ml of warm water and taken once a day. The course of treatment and prevention is determined individually, depending on medical indications, the age of the patient, and the characteristics of each organism.

Side effects

Vitamin C soluble is safe for health only if the prescribed daily dosages are observed. When the recommended portions of tablets are systematically exceeded, a state of hypervitaminosis occurs, which is accompanied by the following unpleasant symptoms:

• from the central nervous system: headache, less often - migraine attacks, apathy, insomnia, increased nervousness, depression;
• from the gastrointestinal tract (gastrointestinal tract): irritation of the gastric mucosa, nausea, less often - vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, cramps, flatulence, paroxysmal abdominal pain, heartburn;
• from the urinary system: frequent urge to urinate, the formation of kidney stones, the development of urolithiasis;
• from the hematopoietic organs: decrease in blood glucose, changes in the composition of biological fluids of the body, deterioration in the permeability of vascular walls, loss of capillary elasticity;
• from the skin: skin rash, hyperemia, itching, swelling, burning, urticaria;
• other: metabolic disorders, diuresis, water-salt imbalance.

Contraindications to the use of vitamin C tablets

In some clinical cases, doctors do not rule out increased sensitivity of the body to ascorbic acid. This is an absolute medical contraindication, i.e. the patient must limit the intake of tablets containing vitamin C. The “taboo” category is expanded by children under 18 years of age. The medical contraindications of the tablets do not end there. It is prohibited to take vitamin C in large doses (more than 500 mg) for a long time if:

• progressive pregnancy, lactation;
• diabetes mellitus;
• nephrolithiasis and other kidney diseases;
• hyperxaluria (excessive excretion of oxalic acid by the kidneys);
• hemochromatosis (a hereditary disease characterized by impaired iron metabolism in the body);
• thalassemia (an inherited disease in which hemoglobin production is impaired).

Vitamin C tablets are prescribed only by your doctor. The instructions are necessary to familiarize yourself with the medicine and the principle of its action in the affected body. Doctors prescribe tablets carefully and with strict adherence to the prescribed dosages for:

• hemochromatosis;
• diabetes mellitus;
• oxalose (primary hyperxaluria);
• urolithiasis;
• sideroblastic anemia (decreased iron content in red blood cells);
• thalassemia.

Drug interactions

Ascorbic acid, being an active component, as part of a complex treatment regimen interacts with representatives of other pharmacological groups, influencing the overall therapeutic effect. It is important to take this point into account, otherwise, instead of improving the patient’s well-being, side effects begin to bother them. Features of drug interactions:

1. Parallel intake of vitamin C tablets and benzylpenecillin and tetracycline substances (antibiotics) provokes an increase in the concentration of the latter in the blood plasma.
2. With the simultaneous use of iron-containing preparations, ascorbic acid improves the absorption of iron ions. Complex treatment with Deferoxamine, on the contrary, reduces the flow of iron into the bloodstream.
3. The combination of ascorbic and acetylsalicylic acid disrupts the flow of vitamin C from the intestines into the blood. Unabsorbed, it is excreted by the kidneys, so it is important to exclude such a pharmaceutical combination.
4. The absorption of vitamin C is pathologically reduced with simultaneous consumption of ethyl alcohol and concentrated drinks containing alkaline ions, for example, vegetable and fruit juices.
5. Ascorbic acid inhibits the excretion of alkaloids and other alkaline drugs from the body, reduces the therapeutic effect of heparin, neuroleptic drugs and mexiletines.
6. The parallel use of vitamin C tablets and salicylates, sulfonamides leads to the excretion of salts in the urine and increases the load on the liver and kidneys.
7. In combination with calcium chloride preparations, salicylic acid salts, corticosteroids, barbiturates and primidones, the amount of vitamin C absorbed by the body decreases.
8. When treated with chronotropic drugs, for example, Isoprenaline, Atropine tablets, ascorbic acid reduces the ability of the latter to increase the heart rate. Medicines become ineffective for medical reasons.

Video

Recently, effervescent vitamins have appeared in pharmacies. Some are wary of any innovations, while others, on the contrary, consider this form more effective. But what is the picture really like? What are the advantages and disadvantages of effervescent drugs and which vitamins are better to choose: effervescent or in tablets.

We will talk about this, as well as what soluble drugs are, further.

What are effervescent vitamins and how do they differ from tablets?

Effervescent tablets are called tablets that must be dissolved in water before taking. At the same time, when substances are mixed with water, a specific sound is produced. Moreover, ½ glass of water is enough to dissolve many drugs.

Did you know? Effervescent drugs were invented specifically for office workers. They always don’t have enough time and can only take what is easy to use.

Advantages

Few people prefer to use instant effervescent and this is only because they are unfamiliar with the main benefits. And these include:

1. Fast digestibility. Such a drug, once in the stomach, has greater absorption.
2. Harmless to the stomach. When combined with liquid, grains of active components enclosed in a shell are not disturbed. At the same time, when they enter the environment with gastric juice, they are instantly absorbed and do not affect the mucous membrane.
3. High performance components. All vitamin complexes and minerals have a highly active form, and the composition of nutrients creates conditions for their optimal interaction.
4. Pleasant (usually fruity) flavor. Dissolving in water, effervescent vitamins create a drink with a pleasant taste for both kids and adults.
5. Do not cause side effects. In addition, the risk of vomiting, intestinal upset and nausea is reduced.

Did you know? Exceeding the dose of vitamin C can lead to consequences such as disruption of sleep and the functioning of the pancreas and kidneys.

A brief overview of the most popular “fizzy drinks”

Any vitamin complexes, like all medications, must be chosen together with a doctor. Only a specialist can choose the optimal complex that is right for you.

"Supradin"

This effervescent pill supplement contains 12 vitamin compounds and 8 minerals. As a result of dissolution, a lemon-flavored drink is obtained. Children over 12 years old can take once a day.

Ideal for people leading an active lifestyle and experiencing intense physical and mental stress. Suitable for women who want to maintain the health and condition of the nail plate, hair and skin.

Precautions and harm

Despite the fact that effervescent vitamins, including those intended for children, are gaining popularity recently, scientists warn of certain dangers for teeth. The bottom line is that acids (and citric acid is included in all “fizzy drinks”) are responsible for leaching an element such as calcium from the teeth, which leads to the development of demineralization of the teeth.

Important! Before taking it, it is necessary to weigh the benefits that vitamins can bring and the harm caused directly to the teeth.

Although, it is worth noting that an unsafe situation for tooth enamel arises only in the case of systematic use of “fizzy drinks”. In addition, this danger can be avoided if you drink the drink through a straw.

Experts do not recommend consuming effervescent vitamins for those who suffer from gastritis and other diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and stomach. In people with such problems, the drug can cause pain, abdominal pain, and bloating. It is also undesirable for children to drink fizzy drinks; it is better for them to be given vitamins in chewable form.

Now that you know more information about effervescent vitamins, it will be much easier for you to choose a more suitable complex for yourself. Indeed, today the issue of replenishing the body with vitamins is very relevant. Of course, the choice will have to be agreed with your doctor.

Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) plays an important role in regulating the redox processes of the human body, carbohydrate metabolism, blood clotting, and tissue regeneration.

Description of the properties of vitamin C

Vitamin C is involved in the synthesis of corticosteroids, collagen (connective tissue protein), procollagen, proteoglycans and other organic components of the intercellular substance of teeth, bones and capillary endothelium, and normalizes capillary permeability. Participates in iron metabolism, enhances the absorption of non-heme iron (serum iron). It has antiplatelet and pronounced antioxidant activity.

Ascorbic acid is involved in the metabolism of aromatic amino acids, pigments and cholesterol, promotes the accumulation of glycogen in the liver. Due to the activation of respiratory enzymes in the liver, it enhances its detoxification and protein-forming functions, increases the synthesis of prothrombin (a protein responsible for blood clotting).

Vitamin C inhibits the release and accelerates the degradation of histamine, inhibits the formation of prostaglandins and other mediators of inflammation and allergic reactions. Regulates immunological reactions, activates the synthesis of antibodies, the C3 component of complement, interferon). Promotes phagocytosis, increases the body's resistance to infections.

Click on the picture to enlarge

Daily requirement for vitamin C

The daily requirement for ascorbic acid in adults is 60 mg/day. When ascorbic acid is consumed in amounts greater than 100 mg/day, the excess ends up in the urine. In quantities significantly exceeding the daily requirement, this substance has almost no effect.

Increasing ascorbic acid intake to 1000 mg/day (for example, as in the product Natural Factors, Vitamin C, 1000 mg) is accompanied by increased excretion of oxalates and urates in the urine.

Oxalates are salts and esters of oxalic acid. Urates are acidic, highly soluble sodium and potassium salts of uric acid. Those. at a dose of 1000 mg/day, salts already appear in the urine. IMHO it is possible that kidney stones form from these salts.

Vitamin C in the human body

Vitamin C is not produced in the human body, but comes only from food. With an unbalanced and inadequate diet, a person may experience a vitamin C deficiency. Or he may not :)

Ascorbic acid is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), mainly in the jejunum. Communication with plasma proteins – 25%. Gastrointestinal diseases reduce the absorption of ascorbic acid in the intestine. The maximum concentration of ascorbic acid in the blood is achieved 4 hours after ingestion. Easily penetrates into leukocytes, platelets, and then into all tissues. The highest concentration is achieved in the glandular organs, leukocytes, liver and lens of the eye.

Deposited (stored) in the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland, adrenal cortex, ocular epithelium, interstitial cells of the seminal glands, ovaries, liver, spleen, pancreas, lungs, kidneys, intestinal wall, heart, muscles, thyroid gland.

Metabolized primarily in the liver. It is excreted by the kidneys, through the intestines, with sweat, breast milk unchanged and in the form of metabolites.

Smoking and drinking alcohol accelerate the destruction of vitamin C, sharply reducing its reserves in the body.

Indications for use

Prevention and treatment of hypo- and vitamin C deficiency.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity, with long-term use in large doses (more than 500 mg/day) - hyperoxaluria, nephrolithiasis, hemochromatosis, thalassemia, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, sucrose/isomaltase deficiency, fructose intolerance, glucose-galactose malabsorption.

Carefully

For diabetes mellitus, sideroblastic anemia, kidney stones.

Pregnant

It should be taken into account that ascorbic acid penetrates the placenta. During pregnancy you should NOT take vitamin C in high doses., since the fetus can adapt to high doses of ascorbic acid taken by a pregnant woman, and then the newborn may develop ascorbic disease as a withdrawal reaction. If taken, the expected benefit must outweigh the potential risk.

My experience with vitamin C 1000 mg/day

In April 2014 I took this “nuclear” vitamin. A week after I started taking it, I took a urine test, and the doctors actually found salt in my urine—they forced me to retake the test. I stopped taking the “thermonuclear” vitamins and took the test again a week later - everything was normal.

Here's 1000 mg of ascorbic acid for you! 🙂 IMHO, a similar dosage of vitamin C can be used as an exception during the period of a cold in the body and for no more than a few (3-5) days. And don't forget that

The dose makes the difference between the medicine and the poison!

A sufficient supply of vitamins to the child’s body is very important for the full development of the child. Among these substances, vitamin C, also called “ascorbic acid,” is considered one of the most important. Why is such a vitamin valuable for children, what is the norm for vitamin C consumption in childhood, and is it possible to obtain such a compound not only from food, but also from vitamin supplements?

The importance of vitamin C for children's bodies

The most well-known property of this vitamin is its effect on the immunity of children.

If the intake of ascorbic acid into the baby’s body is sufficient, this will reduce the incidence of diseases and help the baby resist illness during the season of colds and viral infections.

Other valuable properties of vitamin C include:

• Acceleration of wound healing. This vitamin helps to recover faster in the postoperative period or after burns.
• Improving the condition of blood vessels, in particular, normalizing capillary permeability. This determines the value of ascorbic acid for frequent bleeding.
• Protecting cells from toxic substances and harmful compounds. Thanks to its antioxidant effect, vitamin C can even protect against cancer.
• Participation in the synthesis of collagen, a protein that is part of the structure of skin, cartilage and bones.
• Participation in the absorption of iron and vitamin B9. Since vitamin C is important for hematopoiesis, a sufficient amount of it in the daily diet is important after blood loss or injury.
• Regulation of the blood clotting process.
• Influences the synthesis of adrenaline, which improves children's mood and reduces stress levels.
• Positive effect on the digestive tract due to the activation of digestive enzymes. In addition, ascorbic acid has a slight laxative effect.

Vitamin C Plays an important role in the development of children's immunity

Needs at different ages

The daily dose of ascorbic acid depends on the age of the child. Children should receive the following amounts of vitamin C daily:

In case of illness or signs of ascorbic acid deficiency that have already appeared, daily dosages are increased, but should not exceed the following indicators:

The older the child, the greater the amount of vitamin C should be in his diet.

What products contain

Vitamin C is a water-soluble compound that is not produced in the human body. That is why ascorbic acid must be present in the food that a child eats, because food is the main source of this vitamin.

A lot of ascorbic acid is found in:

• Rose hips.
• Currants.
• Sweet pepper.
• Spinach.
• Strawberries.
• Gooseberries.
• Sea buckthorn.
• Kiwi.
• Cabbage.
• Green peas.
• Citrus fruits.
• Pineapple.
• Potatoes.
• Cherry.

Vitamin C is found in large quantities in berries and fruits

It is important to remember that during long-term storage, some of the vitamin C is destroyed. This vitamin and high temperatures do not tolerate well, which makes it important to eat fresh fruits and vegetables.

For more information about what foods should be included in your diet to provide yourself with vitamin C, see the program “Live Healthy.”

Vitamin C deficiency - symptoms

If the food a child eats contains too little ascorbic acid, then a deficiency of this vitamin in the body will manifest itself:

• Quick fatigue during games.
• Falling asleep earlier and sleeping longer.
• Pale skin.
• Bleeding gums.
• The appearance of nosebleeds.
• Decreased appetite.
• Frequent viral infections.
• Blueness of the skin around the nose, ears or lips.

A long-term lack of vitamin C can lead to serious consequences, for example, the formation of pinpoint subcutaneous hemorrhages and the development of scurvy. A doctor should prescribe vitamin C in such situations, selecting a therapeutic dosage.

Vitamin C supplements

Preparations containing vitamin C are especially relevant during periods when there are fewer fresh vegetables or fruits in the children's diet or the concentration of ascorbic acid in them decreases due to long storage. This period is usually winter and early spring.

Vitamin C supplements include:

• Single-component. In such preparations, ascorbic acid is the main component. These include vitamin C in dragees or tablets, combined with carbohydrates (glucose, dextrose) for better absorption.

Effervescent tablets are also popular, from which a vitamin drink is prepared.

• Multicomponent. Such drugs include multivitamin complexes that include vitamin C as one of the many ingredients. A child can get ascorbic acid from such popular multivitamin complexes as Multi-Tabs, Alphabet, Pikovit, Sana-Sol, Nature’s Plus, Solgar, Biovital gel, Vitamishki, Vitrum and many others.

Doctors' opinions on the need to introduce vitamin complexes into a child's diet differ. Thus, the famous doctor Komarovsky is against such additives, but the Union of Pediatricians of Russia is for it. See the following videos for more details.

Indications

• With an unbalanced diet.
• During the period of active growth of the child.
• During the winter-autumn period.
• Under increased stress, both physical and emotional.
• During the recovery period after surgery or injury.
• With hemorrhagic diathesis.
• For the prevention of colds.

Contraindications

It is not recommended to take vitamin C supplements if:

• Hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.
• Tendency to develop blood clots.
• Increased hemoglobin level.
• Thrombophlebitis.
• Diabetes mellitus.
• Severe kidney disease.

Instructions for use of ascorbic acid

Most often, for the prevention of hypovitaminosis C in childhood, sweet tablets are chosen, in which ascorbic acid is combined with glucose. These white round tablets are familiar to every adult. Each tablet contains 25 mg of vitamin C. Here is what is important to know if you want to give ascorbic acid in this form to your child:

• The supplement is recommended to be given to children no earlier than 3 years of age.
• This vitamin C is offered to children after meals.
• Children under 10 years of age are given 1 tablet per day, and children over 10 years of age are given 2 tablets daily.
• The duration of prophylactic administration of ascorbic acid is from 2 to 8 weeks.
• For therapeutic purposes, such ascorbic acid is prescribed in double dosage - 2 tablets daily for children 3-10 years old and 3-4 tablets for children 11 years old and older.