Chewable Vitamin C Tablets: Are they really worth the trouble?

Chewable vitamin C tablets are a hot commodity in my house as the cooler months set in, but are they really worth the trouble?

I put the question to my GP on Thursday, he advised me that unless you are turning over a high amount of energy then they really aren't going to do much for you. Professional athletes, physical labourers, and people who lead physically active lifestyles are the only people that really benefit from extra vitamin C.

So there you have it, be active if you want your extra vitamin C to do its job!

But what about the internal effects of chewable tablets? Its best to choose tablets which have low ascorbic acid levels to avoid any nasty stomach ulcers, as well as save your teeth. Studies have found cases where people who have over indulged in these tablets (i.e. Me) have experienced tooth erosion. Is it true? Well lets just say my dentist wasn't very happy with me this year, and after 3 fillings, 6 Novocain injections, and a $900 bill, I wasn't happy with me either. Abuse of vitamin C is also linked with diarrhoea and dehydration due to the body flushing out the extra unnecessary vitamins.

So next time you decide you need an extra vitamin C kick, choose a natural source like oranges, or supplement pills rather than the chewables. If you really hate oranges and just can't stand swallowing pills, take the dentists advice and brush your teeth after to make sure that acid is well off your teeth.

Had a good or bad experience with chewable vitamin C tablets? Lets hear it!

Keep Smiling,

Jo

xoxo

UPDATE: My good friend Mark has informed me that a former work mate of his reported knowing someone who after drinking copious amounts of orange juice and suddenly ceasing, contracted Scurvy. So do be sure to keep up with your RDI of vitamin C, and once you start if you decide to stop, wean yourself over time to avoid contracting this ugly condition.

Thanks for the tip Markus xoxo!