Vitamin C

Well known for its effects on diminishing the symptoms of the common cold, vitamin C -- which is a strong antioxidant and can be found in citrus fruits, strawberries, green peppers, tomatoes, and potatoes -- has received some attention for its possible role in reducing the risk of heart disease. Much of the vitamin C research in humans has been based on cohort studies, which follow large groups of people with common characteristics over a long period of time.

In three of five cohort studies, it was found that vitamin C supplementation had no effect on preventing heart disease. However, in a review of nine other cohort studies, those who took over 700 mg of supplemental vitamin C a day were found to have a 24 percent lower risk of heart disease than those who did not take supplements. At this time, the evidence to support taking supplemental vitamin C to prevent heart disease is inconclusive.

There is also evidence suggesting calcium may help lower cholesterol. Find out about this link on the next page.

For more information on cholesterol, see:
  • Foods That Lower Cholesterol: The first and best way to attack a cholesterol problem is through your eating habits. Find out what to eat for a healthy heart.
  • Foods That Claim to Lower Cholesterol: Many foods and supplements claim that they can help lower cholesterol. But do they really work? Find the answers here.
  • Low Cholesterol Diet: Many cholesterol-conscious diet plans focus on reducing saturated fat. Learn how to cut it out of your diet.
  • How Cholesterol Works: Cholesterol is essential to the body. Find out why we need it and how much is too much.

This information is solely for informational purposes. IT IS NOT INTENDED TO PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. Neither the Editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author nor publisher take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading or following the information contained in this information. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. Before undertaking any course of treatment, the reader must seek the advice of their physician or other health care provider.