Is there any difference between two-yuan vitamin C and hundred-yuan vitamin C?

Is There a Difference Between $0.30 Vitamin C and Expensive Vitamin C?

Anyone who has purchased vitamin C will notice that it comes at different price points, ranging from $0.30 to over $15. So what distinguishes vitamin C at different price levels?

01

What Are the Benefits of Vitamin C?

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is an essential nutrient for the human body. Long-term deficiency can lead to scurvy, causing symptoms like bleeding gums, tooth loss, and skin problems, and in severe cases, it can be life-threatening.

According to survey data, the average daily vitamin C intake for Chinese residents aged 65 and above is 71.8 milligrams, while adults aged 18 to 35 consume an average of 56.41 milligrams per day. The recommended daily intake for optimal health is 100 milligrams.

This indicates that many people do not get enough vitamin C, primarily due to insufficient consumption of fruits and vegetables. Therefore, supplementing with an appropriate amount of vitamin C daily is beneficial.

02

What’s the Difference Between $0.30 Vitamin C and Expensive Vitamin C?

There are many vitamin C products on the market, some costing just a few dollars per bottle, while others priced at $30 or more often claim to be natural vitamin C. So, what is the difference between natural and synthetic vitamin C?

From the perspective of supplementing vitamin C, there is no difference between natural and synthetic vitamin C.

First, their chemical structures are identical; the only difference lies in their sources. Natural vitamin C is extracted from food, while synthetic vitamin C is produced artificially with the same composition.

· Synthetic Vitamin C—primarily contains vitamin C and starch.

· Natural Vitamin C—primarily contains vitamin C along with various additives and sugars.

Second, their effects are the same. Vitamin C is a chemical substance, and whether it is chemically synthesized or extracted from natural sources, as long as the structure is the same, its effects are identical.

Finally, in terms of pricing, synthetic vitamin C is classified as a medication, marked with an “OTC” label, and its price is regulated. Natural vitamin C is considered a health supplement, marked as such, and priced by manufacturers, as long as it meets food safety standards.

03

How to Supplement Vitamin C?

■ Eat More Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are the richest sources of vitamin C. Following dietary guidelines, consuming 500 grams of vegetables and 250 grams of fruit daily can provide sufficient vitamin C. Vegetables like bell peppers, Chinese broccoli, pea sprouts, and cauliflower, and fruits such as jujube, winter jujube, kiwi, hawthorn, and strawberries are all rich in vitamin C and can be included in your diet.

Fruits and vegetables not only contain vitamin C but also provide carotenoids, vitamin E, B vitamins, iron, zinc, various minerals, and dietary fiber. Numerous nutritional studies have shown that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can reduce the risk of chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

■ Consider Vitamin C Supplements

If you’re concerned about not getting enough vitamin C from fruits and vegetables, taking a daily supplement of 100–200 milligrams is advisable, but there’s no need to exceed this amount.

■ Supplement Moderately, Avoid Overconsumption

It’s important to note that neither natural nor synthetic vitamin C should be taken in excess, as overconsumption can be detrimental to health.