home Audience 2 Vitamins - description, classification and role of vitamins in human life. Daily requirement for vitamins. Fat-soluble vitamins

Vitamins - description, classification and role of vitamins in human life. Daily requirement for vitamins. Fat-soluble vitamins

Vitamins are a large group of organic compounds of different chemical natures. They are united by one important feature: without vitamins, the existence of humans and other living beings is impossible.

Even in ancient times, people assumed that to prevent certain diseases it was enough to make certain adjustments to the diet. For example, in ancient Egypt they treated “night blindness” (impaired twilight vision) by eating liver. Much later it was proven that this pathology is caused by a lack of vitamin A, which is present in large quantities in the liver of animals. Several centuries ago, as a remedy for scurvy (a disease caused by hypovitaminosis C), it was proposed to introduce sour foods plant origin. The method was 100% justified, since in the usual sauerkraut and citrus fruits contain a lot of ascorbic acid.

Why are vitamins needed?

Compounds of this group take an active part in all types of metabolic processes. Most vitamins perform the function of coenzymes, i.e. they work as enzyme catalysts. These substances are present in food products in fairly small quantities, so they are all classified as micronutrients. Vitamins are necessary for the regulation of vital functions through the body's fluids.

The study of these vital organic compounds is carried out by the science of vitaminology, which is at the intersection of pharmacology, biochemistry and food hygiene.

Important:Vitamins have absolutely no calorie content, so they cannot serve as a source of energy. They are also not structural elements necessary for the formation of new tissues.

Heterotrophic organisms obtain these low molecular weight compounds mainly from food, but some of them are formed during the process of biosynthesis. In particular, in the skin under the influence ultraviolet radiation Vitamin D is formed, from provitamins-carotenoids - A, and from the amino acid tryptophan - PP (nicotinic acid or niacin).

note: symbiotic bacteria that live on the intestinal mucosa normally synthesize a sufficient amount of vitamins B3 and K.

A person’s daily need for each individual vitamin is quite small, but if the level of intake is significantly lower than normal, then various pathological conditions develop, many of which pose a very serious threat to health and life. A pathological condition caused by a deficiency of a certain compound of this group is called hypovitaminosis.

note : vitamin deficiency involves a complete cessation of vitamin intake into the body, which is quite rare.

Classification

All vitamins are divided into 2 large groups according to their ability to dissolve in water or fatty acids:

TO water soluble include all compounds of group B, ascorbic acid (C) and vitamin P. They do not tend to accumulate in significant quantities, since possible excesses are excreted with water naturally within a matter of hours.
TO fat-soluble(lipovitamins) are classified as A, D, E, and K. This also includes the later discovered vitamin F. These are vitamins soluble in unsaturated fatty acids - arachidonic, linoleic and linolenic, etc.). Vitamins of this group tend to be deposited in the body - mainly in the liver and adipose tissue.

Due to this specificity, a lack of water-soluble vitamins is more often noted, but hypervitaminosis develops mainly in fat-soluble vitamins.

note: Vitamin K has a water-soluble analogue (vicasol), synthesized in the early 40s of the last century. To date, water-soluble preparations of other lipovitamins have also been obtained. In this regard, such division into groups is gradually becoming quite arbitrary.

To designate individual compounds and groups are used letters. As we studied vitamins in depth, it became clear that some are not individual substances, but complexes. The names currently used were approved in 1956.

Brief characteristics of individual vitamins

Vitamin A (retinol)

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This fat-soluble compound helps prevent xerophthalmia and impaired twilight vision, as well as increase the body's resistance to infectious agents. The elasticity of the epithelium depends on retinol skin and internal mucous membranes, hair growth and the rate of tissue regeneration (restoration). Vitamin A has pronounced antioxidant activity. This lipovitamin is necessary for the development of eggs and the normal course of spermatogenesis. It minimizes the negative effects of stress and exposure to polluted air.

The precursor to retinol is carotene.

Studies have shown that vitamin A prevents the development of cancer. Retinol ensures normal functional activity of the thyroid gland.

Important:Excessive intake of retinol from animal products causes hypervitaminosis. An excess of vitamin A can lead to cancer.

Vitamin B1 (thiamine)

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A person must receive thiamine every day in sufficient quantities, since this compound is not deposited in the body. B1 is needed for normal functioning cardiovascular and endocrine systems, as well as the brain. Thiamine is directly involved in the metabolism of acetylcholine, a nerve signal mediator. B1 is able to normalize secretion gastric juice and stimulate digestion, improving the motility of the gastrointestinal tract. Protein and fat metabolism largely depend on thiamine, which is important for tissue growth and regeneration. It is also needed to break down complex carbohydrates into the main source of energy - glucose.

Important:The thiamine content in products decreases noticeably during heat treatment. In particular, potatoes are recommended to be baked or steamed.

Vitamin B2 (riboflavin)

Riboflavin is necessary for the biosynthesis of a number of hormones and the formation of red blood cells. Vitamin B2 is needed for the formation of ATP (the body’s “energy base”), protection of the retina from the negative effects of ultraviolet radiation, normal fetal development, as well as tissue regeneration and renewal.

Vitamin B4 (choline)

Choline is involved in lipid metabolism and lecithin biosynthesis. Vitamin B4 is very important for the production of acetylcholine, protection of the liver from toxins, growth processes and hematopoiesis.

Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid)

Vitamin B5 has a positive effect on the nervous system, as it stimulates the biosynthesis of the excitation mediator - acetylcholine. Pantothenic acid improves intestinal motility, strengthens the body's defenses and accelerates the regeneration of damaged tissues. B5 is part of a number of enzymes necessary for the normal course of many metabolic processes.

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)

Pyridoxine is needed for normal functional activity of the central nervous system and strengthening the immune system. B6 is directly involved in the biosynthesis process nucleic acids and the construction of a large number of different enzymes. The vitamin promotes the complete absorption of vital unsaturated fatty acids.

Vitamin B8 (inositol)

Inositol is found in the eye lens, tear fluid, nerve fibers, and also in sperm.

B8 helps reduce cholesterol levels in the blood, increases the elasticity of vascular walls, normalizes gastrointestinal motility and has a sedative effect on the nervous system.

Vitamin B9 ()

A small amount of folic acid form microorganisms that inhabit the intestines. B9 takes part in the process of cell division, biosynthesis of nucleic acids and neurotransmitters - norepinephrine and serotonin. The process of hematopoiesis largely depends on folic acid. It is also involved in the metabolism of lipids and cholesterol.

Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin)

Cyanocobalamin is directly involved in the process of hematopoiesis and is needed for the normal course of protein and lipid metabolism. B12 stimulates tissue growth and regeneration, improves the condition nervous system and is used by the body to create amino acids.

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Now everyone knows that ascorbic acid helps strengthen the immune system and prevent or alleviate a number of diseases (in particular, colds). This discovery was made relatively recently; Scientific evidence for the effectiveness of vitamin C in preventing colds appeared only in 1970. Ascorbic acid is deposited in the body in very small quantities, so a person needs to constantly replenish the reserves of this water-soluble compound.

The best sources are many fresh fruits and vegetables.

When there are few fresh plant products in the diet during the cold season, it is advisable to take “ascorbic acid” in tablets or dragees daily. It is especially important not to forget about this for weakened people and women during pregnancy. Regular intake of vitamin C is essential for children. It takes part in the biosynthesis of collagen and many metabolic processes, and also promotes detoxification of the body.

Vitamin D (ergocalciferol)

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Vitamin D not only enters the body from the outside, but is also synthesized in the skin under the influence of ultraviolet radiation. The connection is necessary for the formation and further growth of a full-fledged bone tissue. Ergocalciferol regulates the metabolism of phosphorus and calcium, promotes the excretion heavy metals, improves heart function and normalizes the blood clotting process.

Vitamin E (tocopherol)

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Tocopherol is the most powerful antioxidant known. It minimizes the negative effects of free radicals at the cellular level, slowing down the natural aging process. Thanks to this, vitamin E can improve the functioning of a number of organs and systems and prevent the development of serious illnesses. It improves muscle function and accelerates reparative processes.

Vitamin K (menadione)

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Vitamin K affects blood clotting, as well as the process of bone tissue formation. Menadione improves the functional activity of the kidneys. It also strengthens the walls blood vessels and muscles and normalizes the functions of the digestive tract. Vitamin K is necessary for the synthesis of ATP and creatine phosphate - the most important sources of energy.

Vitamin L-Carnitine

L-Carnitine is involved in lipid metabolism, helping the body obtain energy. This vitamin increases endurance, promotes muscle growth, lowers cholesterol levels and improves the condition of the myocardium.

Vitamin P (B3, citrine)

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The most important function of vitamin P is to strengthen and increase the elasticity of the walls of small blood vessels, as well as reduce their permeability. Citrine is able to prevent hemorrhages and has pronounced antioxidant activity.

Vitamin PP (niacin, nicotinamide)

Many plant foods contain nicotinic acid, and in animal foods this vitamin is present in the form of nicotinamide.

Vitamin PP takes an active part in the metabolism of proteins and helps the body obtain energy from the utilization of carbohydrates and lipids. Niacin is part of a number of enzyme compounds responsible for cellular respiration processes. The vitamin improves the condition of the nervous system and strengthens the cardiovascular system. The condition of the mucous membranes and skin largely depends on nicotinamide. Thanks to RR, vision improves and blood pressure normalizes.

Vitamin U (S-methylmethionine)

Vitamin U reduces histamine levels due to its methylation, which can significantly reduce the acidity of gastric juice. S-methylmethionine also has an antisclerotic effect.

Do I need to take vitamin supplements regularly?

Of course, many vitamins should be supplied to the body regularly. The need for many biologically active compounds increases with increased stress on the body (during physical work, playing sports, during illness, etc.). The question of the need to start taking one or another complex vitamin preparation is decided strictly individually. Uncontrolled use of these pharmacological agents can cause hypervitaminosis, that is, an excess of one or another vitamin in the body, which will not lead to anything good. Thus, taking the complexes should only be started after prior consultation with your doctor.

note: The only natural multivitamin is breast milk. For babies, no synthetic drugs can replace it.

It is advisable to additionally take some vitamin preparations for pregnant women (due to increased needs), vegetarians (many compounds are obtained from animal foods), as well as people on a restrictive diet.

Multivitamins are necessary for children and adolescents. Their metabolism is accelerated, since it is needed not only to maintain the functions of organs and systems, but also for active growth and development. Of course, it is better if a sufficient amount of vitamins comes from natural products, but some of them contain the necessary compounds in sufficient quantities only in a certain season (this mainly applies to vegetables and fruits). In this regard, without pharmacological drugs getting by is quite problematic.

Good day, dear visitors of the project “Good IS!” ", section " "!

In today's article we'll talk O vitamins.

The project previously contained information about some vitamins; this article is devoted to a general understanding of these, so to speak, compounds, without which human life would have many difficulties.

Vitamins(from Latin vita - “life”) - a group of low-molecular organic compounds of relatively simple structure and diverse chemical nature, necessary for the normal functioning of organisms.

The science that studies the structure and mechanisms of action of vitamins, as well as their use for therapeutic and preventive purposes, is called - Vitaminology.

Classification of vitamins

Based on solubility, vitamins are divided into:

Fat-soluble vitamins

Fat-soluble vitamins accumulate in the body, and their depots are adipose tissue and liver.

Water-soluble vitamins

Water-soluble vitamins are not stored in significant quantities and, if in excess, are excreted with water. This explains the high prevalence of hypovitaminosis of water-soluble vitamins and hypervitaminosis of fat-soluble vitamins.

Vitamin-like compounds

Along with vitamins, there is a known group of vitamin-like compounds (substances) that possess certain properties of vitamins, however, they do not have all the main characteristics of vitamins.

Vitamin-like compounds include:

Fat soluble:

Coenzyme Q (ubiquinone, coenzyme Q).

Water soluble:

The main function of vitamins in human life is to regulate metabolism and thereby ensure the normal course of almost all biochemical and physiological processes in the body.

Vitamins are involved in hematopoiesis, ensure the normal functioning of the nervous, cardiovascular, immune and digestive systems, participate in the formation of enzymes, hormones, and increase the body’s resistance to the effects of toxins, radionuclides and other harmful factors.

Despite the exceptional importance of vitamins in metabolism, they are neither a source of energy for the body (they have no calorie content) nor structural components of tissues.

Functions of vitamins

Hypovitaminosis (vitamin deficiency)

Hypovitaminosis- a disease that occurs when the body's needs for vitamins are not fully met.

Hypervitaminosis (vitamin overdose)

Hypervitaminosis ( lat. Hypervitaminosis)– an acute disorder of the body as a result of poisoning (intoxication) with an ultra-high dose of one or more vitamins contained in food or vitamin-containing medications. The dose and specific symptoms of overdose are different for each vitamin.

Antivitamins

This may be news to some people, but still, vitamins have enemies - antivitamins.

Antivitamins(Greek ἀντί - against, lat. vita - life) - a group of organic compounds that suppress the biological activity of vitamins.

These are compounds close to vitamins chemical structure, but having the opposite biological effect. When they enter the body, antivitamins are included instead of vitamins in metabolic reactions and inhibit or disrupt their normal course. This leads to vitamin deficiency (vitaminosis) even in cases where the corresponding vitamin is supplied with food in sufficient quantities or is formed in the body itself.

Antivitamins are known for almost all vitamins. For example, the antivitamin of vitamin B1 (thiamine) is pyrithiamine, which causes the phenomenon.

More information about antivitamins will be written in the following articles.

History of vitamins

The importance of certain types of food in preventing certain diseases has been known since ancient times. So, the ancient Egyptians knew that the liver helps against night blindness. It is now known that night blindness may be caused by a deficiency. In 1330 in Beijing, Hu Sihui published a three-volume work “ Important Principles food and drinks,” which systematized knowledge about the therapeutic role of nutrition and affirmed the need for health to combine a variety of foods.

In 1747, Scottish physician James Lind, while on a long voyage, conducted a kind of experiment on sick sailors. By introducing various acidic foods into their diet, he discovered the property of citrus fruits to prevent scurvy. In 1753, Lind published his Treatise on Scurvy, in which he proposed using limes to prevent scurvy. However, these views were not immediately recognized. However, James Cook proved the role in practice plant food in preventing scurvy by introducing sauerkraut, malt wort and a kind of citrus syrup into the ship's diet. As a result, he did not lose a single sailor to scurvy - an unheard of achievement for that time. In 1795, lemons and other citrus fruits became a standard addition to the diet of British sailors. This gave rise to an extremely offensive nickname for sailors - lemongrass. The so-called lemon riots are known: sailors threw barrels of lemon juice overboard.

In 1880, Russian biologist Nikolai Lunin from the University of Tartu fed experimental mice separately all the known elements that make up cow's milk: sugar, proteins, fats, carbohydrates, salts. The mice died. At the same time, mice fed with milk developed normally. In his dissertation (thesis) work, Lunin concluded about the existence of some unknown substance necessary for life in small quantities. Lunin's conclusion was met with hostility by the scientific community. Other scientists were unable to reproduce his results. One reason was that Lunin used cane sugar, while other researchers used milk sugar, poorly refined and containing some vitamin B.
In subsequent years, evidence of the existence of vitamins accumulated. Thus, in 1889, the Dutch doctor Christian Eijkman discovered that chickens, when fed boiled white rice, became ill with beriberi, and when rice bran was added to their food, they were cured. The role of brown rice in preventing beriberi in humans was discovered in 1905 by William Fletcher. In 1906, Frederick Hopkins suggested that in addition to proteins, fats, carbohydrates, etc., food contains some other substances necessary for human body, which he called “accessory food factors”. The last step was taken in 1911 by the Polish scientist Casimir Funk, who worked in London. He isolated a crystalline preparation, a small amount of which cured beriberi. The drug was named “Vitamine”, from the Latin vita - “life” and the English amine - “amine”, a nitrogen-containing compound. Funk suggested that other diseases - scurvy, rickets - could also be caused by a lack of certain substances.

In 1920, Jack Cecil Drummond proposed removing the "e" from the word "vitamine" because the newly discovered one did not contain the amine component. So “vitamines” became “vitamins”.

It was established in 1923 by Dr. Glen King chemical structure vitamin C, and in 1928, doctor and biochemist Albert Szent-Györgyi first isolated vitamin C, calling it hexuronic acid. Already in 1933, Swiss researchers synthesized the well-known ascorbic acid, identical to vitamin C.

In 1929, Hopkins and Aickman received the Nobel Prize for the discovery of vitamins, but Lunin and Funk did not. Lunin became a pediatrician, and his role in the discovery of vitamins was forgotten for a long time. In 1934, the First All-Union Conference on Vitamins took place in Leningrad, to which Lunin (a Leningrader) was not invited.

Other vitamins were discovered in the 1910s, 1920s, and 1930s. In the 1940s, the chemical structure of vitamins was deciphered.

In 1970, Linus Pauling, two-time laureate Nobel Prize, shook medical world with his first book “Vitamin C, the common cold and”, in which he provided documentary evidence of the effectiveness of vitamin C. Since then, “ascorbic acid” remains the most famous, popular and indispensable vitamin for our Everyday life. Over 300 biological functions of this vitamin have been studied and described. The main thing is that, unlike animals, humans cannot produce vitamin C themselves and therefore its supply must be replenished daily.

Conclusion

I would like to draw your attention, dear readers, to the fact that you should treat vitamins very carefully. Poor nutrition, deficiency, overdose, or incorrect doses of vitamins can seriously harm your health, therefore, for final answers on the topic of vitamins, it is better to consult a doctor - vitaminologist, immunologist.

Health is a priceless gift, carefully presented to every person by Mother Nature. Even the World Health Organization admits that only 30% of health depends on medical factors, of which 15% falls to genetics and another 15% to the level of medical care. The remaining 70% is directly related to a person’s lifestyle: his behavior, inclinations, habits and, of course, nutrition. A balanced diet plays an important role in maintaining full functioning, growth, development and physical abilities. However, in addition to traditional nutrients, which include proteins, fats and carbohydrates, vital important substances Vitamins can also be included.

These substances are organic low-molecular compounds that are components of about 150 enzymes. That is, without vitamins, no one is possible physiological process. In addition, vitamin complexes increase the body's resistance to external factors, including viral and bacterial infections, help adapt to a dynamic environmental situation, and cope with stress and fatigue. These substances control metabolism, hormone synthesis, energy exchange, maintenance of performance and full functionality. Therefore, an insufficient supply of vitamins sooner or later leads to a complete malfunction of the body and deterioration of health.

Unfortunately, not all vitamins can be synthesized in the body independently - most of them come from outside. Plus: some of them cannot accumulate in cells, so intake must be regular and complete. Adequate intake of vitamins depends primarily on a well-designed diet, including natural springs these substances: vegetables, fruits, grains, nuts and other plant products. Of course, modern pharmacology produces many synthetic additives and medications, which are analogues of natural extracted substances, however, they still cannot replace the correct vitamins of natural origin, which are absorbed naturally and without problems.

Classification of vitamins

The modern classification of vitamins includes two conditional groups: water-soluble and fat-soluble. This criterion is based on physical properties substances: some of them are better accepted by the body when taken in liquid or natural form, and some only in combination with vegetable oils. Therefore, before considering the question of what vitamins the body needs and how they can be obtained, it is worth deciding on the classification of these substances, because their optimal digestibility and maximum benefit depend on this.

What vitamins are fat soluble?

Obviously, fat-soluble vitamins are substances that actively dissolve in fats and are absorbed in this form in the body. It is noteworthy that these components can accumulate in adipose tissue, creating a fairly large reserve in case of subsequent nutritional deficiency. Having reached a certain level, they enter the liver and are gradually excreted in the urine. Therefore, a deficiency of fat-soluble vitamins in the body is much less common than an excess.

Nevertheless, it is impossible to completely exclude hypo- and hypervitaminosis of these substances. An overdose most often occurs with a single consumption of an extremely large dose, however, with a balanced diet, such a condition is almost impossible. The same applies to the disadvantage - a harmonious menu and correct image life minimize the possibility of encountering a similar condition.

Fat-soluble vitamins: names

Water-soluble vitamins: list of substances

Along with fat-soluble vitamins, there are also water-soluble vitamins, which, accordingly, dissolve in water. These substances are easily absorbed into the cells of the intestinal tract and from there enter the general bloodstream, spreading throughout the body. The main sources of such components are plant foods, which should be on the table every day. This approach to menu planning is primarily due to the fact that water-soluble vitamins cannot accumulate in the body - the maximum period for which they are retained is only a few days, after which the molecules are safely excreted in the urine. Due to such transit properties, hypovitaminosis of this group of substances is much more common than an excess of fat-soluble vitamins. But if necessary, it is possible to make up for their deficiency quite simply - water-soluble substances are absorbed very quickly.

The list of water-soluble vitamins is longer than that of fat-soluble substances. The most significant of them are presented in the table:

Vitamin	Biological effect	Nomenclature name
B - B1	antineuritis	thiamine
B - B2	growth stimulant	riboflavin
B - B3	antipellagritic	a nicotinic acid
B - B5	antianemic	pantothenic acid
B - B6	antidermatitis	pyridoxine
B - B9	antianemic	folic acid
B - B12	antianemic	cyanocobalamin
WITH	anti-corruption	ascorbic acid
N	antiseborrheic	biotin
R	capillary-strengthening	bioflavonoids

Vitamin-like substances

When talking about vitamins, it is impossible not to at least briefly mention vitamin-like substances. On the one hand, their molecules are completely different from most vitamins: they have a complex structure, which is why in most cases they are used only as extracted plant components. In addition, the body needs them in minimal quantities, however, completely excluding them from the daily diet is unforgivable and risky.

Although vitamin-like substances themselves do not belong to the category of vital substances, their lack negatively affects metabolism in general and the activity of other vitamins in particular. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure that sources of these components are also present in the daily menu.

As for the most popular vitamin-like substances, these include:

Natural sources of vitamins

In order to provide the body with all the necessary substances, it is not at all necessary to swallow pills, dietary supplements and other pharmaceutical products - nature has already prepared the best vitamins for us, making sure that a person can get all the necessary components from plant foods. This approach has no disadvantages: natural substances are easily absorbed and do not cause side effects or allergic reactions. How to create a diet to get everything you need from food and maintain your health? Focus on the list, including the names of vitamins and their sources!

The right vitamins are natural! List of products that must be consumed

Taking vitamins daily is the key to health and longevity

With knowledge of what vitamins are needed to stay healthy and how you can get them, it will be easy for you to formulate correct menu to provide the body with everything necessary to maintain normal functioning. Do not neglect these recommendations, because without a normal supply of vitamins full life is basically impossible. Nature has already prepared for you everything that is most necessary and valuable; all you have to do is use this gift correctly. remember, that best treatment– this is prevention!

In recent years, a large number of vitamin-containing drugs have entered the pharmaceutical market. They are actively used in both complex therapy various pathological conditions, and in the process rehabilitation measures as prophylactic drugs. According to official data from government agencies for quality, safety and production control medicines in Ukraine, drugs vitamin action- currently the most in demand in all branches of medicine, especially in the clinic of infectious diseases, pediatrics, neurology, gerontology, etc. Vitamin preparations have become so firmly established in everyday life medical practice that the doctor sometimes does not think about the fact that vitamins, like other medications, have their own mechanisms of action and points of application, knowledge of which is absolutely necessary.

When there is insufficient intake or synthesis of any vitamin in the body, a condition called hypovitaminosis occurs, or its more severe form - vitamin deficiency. The reasons for the development of hypovitaminosis can be:

* increased body need for vitamins;
* lack of vitamins in food;
* inability of the digestive tract to absorb vitamins;
* accelerated removal of vitamins from the body; disruption of the synthesis of vitamins (D and K) in the body.

In this case, the use of certain groups of vitamins to compensate for hypovitaminosis is indicated. Vitamins are delivered to the body through a specially selected (balanced) diet, which includes foods rich in vitamins, as well as as part of single preparations and vitamin complexes. The introduction of vitamins into the body along with food is possible if it is satisfactory. functional state, difficult to dose. It is impossible to deliver vitamins with food, bypassing the gastrointestinal tract, i.e., parenterally. The simplest and most convenient way of introducing a vitamin preparation into the body is considered enteral (oral). An exception is made for hypovitaminosis, manifested by disruption of the functioning of the digestive tract in the form of diarrhea syndrome. When prescribing a specific vitamin preparation, the dosage is calculated based on the body's daily need for the vitamin. This optimal quantity increases by 4-5 times.

Now there are potentized preparations containing, in addition to vitamins and ME, all kinds of adaptogen herbs (ginseng, Rhodiola, Echinacea, etc.), royal jelly and even mental stimulants (dimethylaminoethanol bitartrate). The use of IUDs containing deanol (dimethylaminoethanol bitartrate) is prohibited for epilepsy and seizures, arterial hypertension. These complexes are not prescribed in the second half of the day, because they can disrupt the process of falling asleep and lead to overexcitation. Manufacturers warn about this in the drug inserts. Such IUDs help manage patients with asthenia, but when prescribing them, monitoring the patient’s condition is necessary. Thus, in both therapeutic and preventive vitamin and mineral therapy, the problem of choosing a specific drug and its dosage is very acute. Treatment is the prerogative of the doctor.

Improving the quality of life, health culture, dietary education, knowledge general issues in relation to the effect of vitamins and minerals - part of everyone's civil responsibility for their health and the health of their children. However, competent correction of vitamins and minerals for preventive purposes largely falls on the shoulders of pharmacists, pharmacists and front desk workers. Pharmacists and pharmacists will first have to delve into this (seemingly simple) problem and pass on their knowledge to people. The health of Russians and the future of the country largely depend on their preparedness, active position, and constant desire to really help the patient.

Ascorbic acid, vitamin C (in Latin scorbutus - scurvy) is the elixir of life, which is valued on all continents. Everyone has heard that vitamin C saves from... colds, so in winter everyone leans heavily on tangerines, oranges, and buys sweet ascorbic acid in pharmacies and supermarkets. Why is this substance so famous?

Scientists guessed about the existence of a vitamin that is ready to resist scurvy in the mid-nineteenth century. There was an unspoken rule among sailors and doctors: to dilute the usual diet with citruses and fruits. Thanks to a sufficient amount of the substance, the body protects itself from viral infections, the immune system independently fights viruses and infections.

Several decades later, researcher Zelva began studying the composition of vitamin C, and soon managed to extract ascorbic acid from freshly squeezed lemon juice. However, in the 20s, the material and technical base did not allow further advancement in research. After some time, Albert Georgi and Charles King were able to decipher chemical formula substances developed artificial synthesis. Since then, hundreds of scientists have devoted their work to studying the characteristics of vitamin C. Nowadays, the substance is regularly used in medicine and the beauty industry.

After the discovery of ascorbine, its use in European countries reached record levels. The government recommended that residents use the element three times a day, without understanding what the new element is useful for. Soon, medical institutions began to receive complaints about ascorbic acid hypervitaminosis, the symptoms of which are dangerous to human life. Germany and Norway introduced restrictions on the production, advertising and sale of vitamin C, which made it possible to level out the situation. People were wary of the substance, which had recently been considered a miracle cure for all diseases.

Restrictions on ascorbic acid still remain. In addition, in 2005, the European Court ordered manufacturers to replace the phrases “heals, prolongs” with “promotes, protects” in the instructions for the drug. Doctors undertake to regulate the dosage of the element to avoid unwanted complications.

Despite the presence of contraindications, recommendations, biological role Vitamin C contributes greatly to the functionality of the body. You should carefully monitor your diet to ensure you consume enough of the substance through food and vitamin preparations.

The chemical formula of ascorbic acid is C6H8O6. The powder is no different from other vitamins: soluble in water, resistant to fat, has a sour taste, but has no odor. If stored improperly, it disintegrates and resembles a powder in its structure.

At what temperature is vitamin C destroyed? The destructive process begins at 60 degrees, and breaks down into particles at 100 degrees.

Chemists have proven that vitamin molecules are similar in composition to crystalline sugar, but there are still significant differences. IN Food Industry Artificially derived vitamin C appeared, which immediately became a popular food additive under the number E315. The supplement does not have the same beneficial properties, the same as the original, although much cheaper.

Functions in the body

The main role of ascorbic acid in the human body is the fight against radicals and antioxidant properties. The element is the strongest antioxidant because it protects internal organs and tissue from possible damage and the development of cancer.

What is vitamin C for? With its participation, redox processes take place in the body, synthesis is carried out, and the connective tissues. Vitamin C accelerates the healing of wounds and scars and has a positive effect on epithelial regeneration.

It is important for athletes to regularly take vitamin and mineral complexes containing ascorbic acid, since the substance normalizes energy processes and increases endurance. The synthesis of steroid hormones, the metabolism of folic acid, and natural metals cannot do without vitamin C. In bodybuilding, the substance is respected for its role in gaining muscle mass, since the level of protein absorption and processing depends on it.

The value of ascorbic acid for the body cannot be assessed. The vitamin strengthens blood vessels and increases the level of permeability of elements through their walls. The drug is prescribed for allergic reactions, since large volumes of blood stop accumulating in problem areas of the body. If there is vitamin C in the body in the right amount, inflammatory processes occur in a lighter form.

The main cause of the development of cardiovascular diseases is considered increased amount cholesterol in the body. Ascorbic acid normalizes the process of synthesis and metabolism, so oxidized cholesterol is not deposited on the walls of blood vessels. Prevention of these phenomena will help to avoid atherosclerosis, from which even young people suffer today.

Thanks to vitamin C, the absorption of calcium and iron is improved twofold, the blood is provided with an anti-anemic factor, the nervous system and joints absorb calcium better. The benefits of the substance are confirmed by research: improvements in calcium absorption occurred even in older people, when all processes slow down several times.

Oncology is considered the plague of the 21st century; statistics show that the number of cancer patients is growing relentlessly. Oncologists say that when normal level Vitamin C in the body naturally fights cancer cells. However, if a surplus of ascorbine forms in the body, mutating cancer cells become more resistant, even radiation therapy does not kill them.

The development of a cancerous tumor can be slowed down by injecting a substance directly into the malignant formation. Scientists are still conducting clinical studies to confirm this theory. In any case, cancer patients are advised to maintain vitamin C at the proper level.

Ascorbic acid frees the liver from the influence of toxins, removes copper, radioactive substances, mercury, and lead. To prevent the development of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, ascorbine has become an indispensable remedy. By controlling the level of the substance in the body, there is a chance to avoid cancer in the colon and bladder.

Acid normalizes the functionality of the nervous system, the body develops resistance to stress, and the strength to resist pathogens appears. In addition, the work of the adrenal glands is balanced and the required amount of hormones responsible for combating stress is produced. This is not all that ascorbic acid is responsible for.

It is impossible to give an objective assessment of the effect of vitamin C function. In the twenty-first century, science knows far from all the properties that a substance is rich in. Do not underestimate control over the level of ascorbic acid in the body, since its deficiency causes the development of chronic diseases.

The body, due to its characteristics, does not accumulate ascorbic acid, so you should carefully monitor its consumption. The daily diet does not often contain foods rich in vitamin C. The amount of the substance should be replenished in medicinal form. The natural vitamin is water soluble and easy to heat treatment, which destroys its useful Chemical properties. What products does it contain?

Main sources of the substance:

Previously, oranges and tangerines were considered the main fruits containing the most vitamins. Over time, scientists proved that this is not so, but with rose hips, bell pepper and kiwi, in terms of the capacity of the substance, nothing compares.

Among animal products, vitamin C is found only in the liver, adrenal glands and kidneys.

These products are easily digestible, as evidenced by more than one calorie table. People who adhere to a diet do not have to worry about their vitamin levels, since their diet consists of healthy foods whose calorie content will not harm the diet.

Vegetables and fruits are peeled and cut immediately before consumption.
During cooking, vegetables are placed only in boiling water so that the organic vitamin does not dissolve in the water during heating.
Cooked vegetables should not be left in the broth, because everything is given up to the liquid, and the fruits become useless.
Salads from fresh vegetables salted and seasoned with sauces only before serving.

Vitamin C is consumed instantly after it enters the body; take care to consume the vitamin evenly throughout the day.

It is advisable to divide the daily dose into three equal portions, thus maintaining the concentration of the substance in the body constantly. Having found out what contains the most ascorbic acid, try to properly prepare and eat foods with an increased source of the substance.

If there is a lack of vitamin in the body, it is recommended to replenish the supply with medications. Release form:

dragee;
in tablets;
in ampoules;
in powder.

The form of use is determined by the attending physician depending on the nature of the disease. The instructions for use warn of possible side effects if the drug dosage is incorrect.

Ascorbic acid dragees are prescribed to children because they resemble candy and not medicine. Effervescent tablets are popular among professional athletes. One tablet, diluted in a glass, replenishes vitamin reserves and invigorates before a grueling workout. The powder is available in sachets.

An injection solution is prepared in ampoules. One ampoule contains 50, 100 mg, which allows you to administer the required dose of the drug at a time.

Overdose has a negative effect on the stomach and digestive tract. Pregnant women are at risk because the metabolism between the mother and fetus is disrupted. As a result, the child develops allergies, and the mother will develop problems with the gastrointestinal tract.

Daily value for humans

Scientists have not reached a consensus regarding daily norm vitamin C for the human body. A common option for the average adult is 60-80 milligrams of the substance per day.

Infants are allowed to consume up to 40 mg of ascorbic acid, for children aged five - 45 mg, at fourteen years of age the daily norm increases to 50 mg.

The World Health Organization recommends using a different calculation method: 2.5 mg of the substance falls per kilogram of body weight. A 200-pound man should receive 225 mg of vitamin C per day. To replenish ascorbic acid levels for medicinal purposes, doctors increase the recommended dose three times.

Pregnant women – 75 mg. If you have a question, can pregnant women take vitamin C? Consult a antenatal clinic so as not to worry about the baby’s health. When planning a pregnancy, the level of ascorbine in the body is important for men and women. The daily norm does not exceed 100 mg.
Nursing mothers – 90 mg.
Smokers - 120 mg.
Alcoholics – 120 mg. Alcohol and nicotine accelerate the breakdown of vitamin C, which provokes the formation of a deficiency of the substance in the body.
Persons in constant stressful situations.
People living in areas with unfavorable ecology: factory emissions, exhaust gases, untreated drinking water, etc. As soon as harmful substances enter the body, ascorbic acid is used for their disposal. The need for vitamin increases.
Residents of the Far North and Southern regions. Unusual weather conditions are considered stress for the body, so residents are advised to take 40% more vitamins than other categories.
Women taking oral contraceptives.

Even if you belong to the group of people suffering from vitamin C deficiency, do not consume large doses of the substance at once. Divide the dose into 3 servings and take them throughout the day.

At what age is the use of ascorbic acid allowed? Vitamins without the presence of pathologies in the baby are introduced into the diet after the end of the breastfeeding period. At breastfeeding baby gets everything necessary elements with mother's milk.

The lethal dose for humans is 60-90 tablets in a short period of time. The body does not have time to remove the substance through urinary canal, an overdose of vitamin occurs.

Let us remember that since ancient times, citrus fruits were considered the only salvation from scurvy. 10 mg of ascorbic acid, which is equal to two fresh grapes or a bunch of grapes, will help prevent the development of the disease. However, this is not enough to maintain the productive functioning of the body in a world filled with negative factors: factories, exhaust fumes, dirty water, chronic stress.

Hypovitaminosis is manifested by a decrease in the functioning of the immune system, the body’s vulnerability to respiratory and gastrointestinal diseases. Studies have proven that with ascorbine deficiency in schoolchildren, the body’s ability to resist pathogenic microbes has halved. Acid deficiency causes the development serious illnesses. Signs of vitamin C deficiency:

With insufficient intake of ascorbic acid for two to three months, vitamin deficiency develops.

Before taking vitamins, find out their amount in the body in order to avoid unwanted consequences from an overdose. To determine the level of vitamin C in the body, it is not necessary to undergo tests; the test can easily be carried out at home. Pull your hand tightly with a rubber band until small spots appear on the surface of the skin. The number of spots indicates the level of vitamin deficiency: the number of spots indicates the complexity of the situation. An excess of vitamin C is indicated by its presence in the urine.

You need to replenish vitamin C reserves in the body with the right foods, which were already mentioned above. Try to process fruits and vegetables as little as possible elevated temperature and water, because useful material dissolve extremely quickly without entering the body.

Ascorbic acid is extremely useful for humans, but in large quantities it can cause irreparable harm. The body functions normally only when it receives the required amount of vitamins and minerals not exceeding the permissible norm. Excess and deficiency become impetus for undesirable processes that affect general condition health.

Consequences of excess ascorbic acid:

Diarrhea.
Destruction of blood cells.
Simultaneous consumption of vitamin C and aspirin leads to irritation of the gastric mucosa and ulcers. Aspirin causes increased consumption of ascorbic acid, which is excreted in the urine through the kidneys. Such a loss becomes the first sign of a serious vitamin deficiency.
A high dose of vitamin C interferes with the absorption of vitamin B12, which is used as food supplement. B12 deficiency has an extremely negative effect on the body, so its level should be regularly monitored by a doctor.
Candy and chewing gum with a high content of vitamin C damage tooth enamel, so after eating them, be sure to brush your teeth and rinse your mouth.
Excessive doses of ascorbic acid slow down the functioning of the pancreas, which is dangerous for patients with diabetes and people with anemia, thrombophlebitis, and thrombosis. Vitamin C influences the formation of a separate group of hormones that put pressure on the functioning of the kidneys and arteries.

Ascorbic acid in free access in stores and pharmacies, so you can buy it without a doctor’s prescription.

Excess vitamin C has negative consequences that are as serious as deficiency.

The beneficial properties of ascorbic acid have become the reason for its popularity in medicine. Vitamin C-based preparations are prescribed for a wide range of diseases:

Doctors, having studied the patient’s medical history, increase the dosage to 1.5 g per day. Intramuscular medications are administered in case of acute vitamin deficiency; in other cases, the diet is regulated and pills are prescribed.

He became an ardent supporter of the use of vitamin C for medicinal purposes. famous doctor Linus Pauling. The scientist advocated the use of the substance in the treatment of serious diseases and minor ailments, but this theory was not confirmed by research by physiologists. Some patients, after increasing the daily norm, developed serious problems caused by hypervitaminosis.

During pregnancy they are carried out additional examinations and tests, since women and children may be affected. It is not for nothing that restrictions on the use of vitamin C are provided for pregnant women, since early stages its excess provokes miscarriage.

Ascorbic acid is prescribed for delayed menstruation and irregular cycle. Vitamin C is involved in the production of estrogen, the main component in the structure of the inner layer of the uterus. When there is a sufficient amount of female hormone, the uterus contracts, provoking menstruation. Thus, the substance causes menstruation and improves women's health.

Application in cosmetology

Ascorbic acid, like, is included in anti-aging cosmetics for women. Products based on vitamin C prevent the effects of free radicals on the skin of the face, which is why it is used in the manufacture of anti-aging creams.

The presence of a vitamin in the list of cosmetic ingredients does not guarantee quality, since the amount of the element used is not always enough to produce an effect. Optimal dose in cosmetology ranges from 0.3% to 10%. Professional preparations on the labels contain information about the quantity active substance And percentage components.

Due to the sensitivity of the vitamin to light and air, cosmetics based on it are produced in sealed, tinted packaging with a dispenser.

Vitamin C-based facial cosmetics perform the following functions:

protect the skin from exposure to infrared rays;
synthesize collagen;
restore collagen fibers;
slow down the aging process;
increase skin tone;
prevent the appearance of age spots;
relieve inflammation;
refresh and improve complexion;
strengthen vascular walls.

In winter, cosmetics are not enough to replenish vitamin C reserves; it is necessary to take vitamin and mineral complexes for the skin.

Ascorbic acid is useful for hair; it makes hair shiny and silky. Liquid vitamin from the ampoule is added to ordinary shampoo or balm for washing hair. Nutrition along the entire length is provided during each wash.

Myths about vitamin C

Ever since the properties of ascorbic acid became known to mankind, the vitamin has been accompanied by myths and rumors. ABOUT miraculous properties substances constitute legends that are far from the real state of affairs. We invite you to familiarize yourself with popular and common myths regarding vitamin C.

Ascorbic acid protects against ODS. Everyone has heard that at the first signs of illness, you need to immediately take vitamin C. Doctors prescribed “ascorbic acid” to adults and children, assuring them that they would soon forget about a runny nose and cough. It is not true. The vitamin will help with colds only if it is taken as a prophylactic before the onset of the disease. Otherwise, people who take vitamin C get sick one day less than the average person.
Does not protect the body from toxins. results clinical trials amazed experienced scientists. Smokers cause irreparable harm to the health of their family members, turning them into passive smokers. If they regularly take ascorbic acid, then the consequences of smoking are much less.
Vitamin C does not affect cancer tumors. Scientists' opinions regarding the effect of ascorbic acid in the fight against cancerous tumors differ from each other. A couple of years ago, Marky Levine, an employee of the National Institutes of Health, proved that ascorbate helps in the fight against cancer - it destroys cancer cells. When vitamin C is injected into the tumor body, survival cancer cells decreased by half. Positive Impact The drug for cancer will have to be proven by the results of clinical products, because each organism has exceptional characteristics.
You can lose weight with ascorbic acid. Indeed, vitamin C improves the functioning of the body; it is possible to lose a few kilograms, but no more. To lose weight, you don't just need to take any pills, it's important to create a calorie deficit. Correct balanced diet, physical activity, sleep is the key healthy body. To understand how many calories are consumed and expended daily, you should keep a diary and write down each meal (weight, calorie content) in it.

Excessive consumption, as well as deficiency of an element, leads to negative consequences. You should not prescribe your own dosage without first being examined by a specialized doctor.