What is Vitamin C?
Discover Solgar Ester-C Plus — Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin vital for numerous bodily functions. As an essential nutrient, it cannot be synthesised by the body and must be obtained through diet or supplements. Renowned for its antioxidant properties, vitamin C supports the immune system, aids collagen production, and enhances iron absorption from plant-based foods. Adequate intake contributes to healthy skin, blood vessels, bones, and cartilage.
Importance of Vitamin C
Vitamin C contributes to the normal function of the immune system, protects cells from oxidative stress, and is necessary for collagen formation to maintain healthy skin, blood vessels, bones, and cartilage. It also helps regenerate other antioxidants like vitamin E. Deficiency can lead to scurvy, with symptoms including fatigue, gum disease, and impaired wound healing. Ensuring sufficient vitamin C intake is therefore important for overall health.
Dietary Sources
Vitamin C is naturally present in many fruits and vegetables, especially citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruits, lemons), kiwis, strawberries, bell peppers, broccoli, and kale. Cooking reduces vitamin C content, so raw or lightly cooked options are beneficial. A balanced diet typically provides enough vitamin C for most people, but supplements may be considered when dietary intake is insufficient.
Recommended Intake
The reference nutrient intake (RNI) for vitamin C varies by age, sex, and life stage. For adult men, it is 90 mg per day; for adult women, 75 mg per day. Smokers need an extra 35 mg daily due to increased oxidative stress. The upper safe level for adults is 2000 mg per day from food and supplements combined. Higher doses may cause digestive upset. Individual requirements vary, so it is best to consult a health care professional.
Supplement Forms
Vitamin C supplements come in various forms: ascorbic acid, sodium ascorbate, calcium ascorbate, and others. Some are marketed as buffered or non-acidic, which may be gentler on the stomach, but individual tolerance differs. Solgar Ester-C Plus used a branded form called Ester-C, which is calcium ascorbate.
Safety and Precautions
Vitamin C is generally safe within recommended amounts. High doses may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, diarrhoea, and nausea. Those with oxalate kidney stones or other conditions should exercise caution and consult a health care professional before high-dose supplementation. Pregnant and nursing women should also seek medical advice. Always follow dosage instructions and do not exceed the recommended intake. Dietary supplements are not as strictly regulated as medicines, so quality can vary.
Product Status
Solgar Ester-C Plus 1000 mg Vitamin C capsules (50 count) have been discontinued by the manufacturer. This product provided 1000 mg of vitamin C per capsule as Ester-C (calcium ascorbate). As production has ceased, availability may be limited to remaining stock. The information below offers general details on vitamin C supplementation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this product still available?
No, Solgar Ester-C Plus 1000 mg Vitamin C capsules have been discontinued by the manufacturer. Some retailers might still have limited stock, but production has stopped.
Can I take this supplement on an empty stomach?
General guidance suggests vitamin C supplements can be taken with or without food, depending on individual tolerance. Follow the label instructions or consult a health care professional.
How many capsules are in a bottle?
Each bottle contains 50 capsules, providing a 50-day supply at the recommended serving of one capsule per day.
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Medicines and Health care products Regulatory Agency. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease.