Pharmacokinetics of Poly C versus Ascorbic Acid

itamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is an essential nutrient for humans. It plays several roles in the body: as a cofactor or co-substrate for several enzyme systems—including three involved in collagen biosynthesis—as an electron donor or reducing agent for many biochemical reactions, and as a general antioxidant in protecting cells and tissues against free-radical damage. Acute vitamin C deficiencies result in scurvy. Because of its essential role in human nutrition, vitamin C is a common and often high-dose constituent of nutritional supplements. As such, many chemical forms of the compound have been developed, in part as a means of improving product performance and as a way to differentiate one supplement brand from another. USANA’s proprietary vitamin C blend, Poly C, is a mixture of calcium, potassium, magnesium, and zinc ascorbates. This blend was developed to promote bioavailability and help reduce stomach upset that often accompanies high doses of pure ascorbic acid. The clinical study reported here was undertaken to compare the pharmacokinetics of Poly C and ascorbic acid, and to substantiate claims of improved bioavailability.