C-Vitamin Unveiled: The Power of L-Ascorbic Acid vs. D-Ascorbic Acid

C-Vitamin Unveiled: The Power of L-Ascorbic Acid vs. D-Ascorbic Acid

C-vitamin, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin crucial for various essential functions in the human body. It acts as an antioxidant, participates in collagen synthesis, boosts the immune system, and aids in iron absorption. C-vitamin exists in two main forms, L-ascorbic acid and D-ascorbic acid.

**L-Ascorbic Acid:**

L-ascorbic acid is the natural and biologically active form of C-vitamin found in many fruit and vegetable sources, such as citrus fruits, kiwi, strawberries, and bell peppers. It is the form that the body can most easily use and metabolize. This specific form of C-vitamin is efficiently absorbed by the intestine and circulates in the bloodstream, where it can perform its many functions. L-ascorbic acid is more stable than its counterpart, D-ascorbic acid, and is better tolerated by humans.

**D-Ascorbic Acid:**

D-ascorbic acid is an isomer of L-ascorbic acid. Isomers are compounds with the same chemical composition but different spatial structures. This results in lower biological activity and absorption capability in the human body compared to L-ascorbic acid. Although D-ascorbic acid has similar chemical properties, it is not the form of C-vitamin typically used in supplements and recommended for its health benefits.

**The Most Biologically Active Form of C-Vitamin:**

L-ascorbic acid is the most biologically active and preferred form of C-vitamin. It is the form naturally present in foods and the one the human body is most adept at using effectively. This form of C-vitamin is the one recommended to meet the body's requirements for this essential vitamin.

It is worth noting that supplements and C-vitamin-enriched foods usually contain L-ascorbic acid due to its superior biological activity and effectiveness in the human body.

Before starting to use any supplement, including C-vitamin, it is always a good idea to consult a physician or health expert for individualized advice based on your specific needs and circumstances.

Source: **Linster, C. L., Van Schaftingen, E. (2007). Vitamin C: Biosynthesis, recycling and degradation in mammals. The FEBS Journal, 274(1), 1-22.**