Vitamin C supplementation and hematocrit

[maldorf]

Been doing some research online and im seeing some people reporting that supplementing with doses of vitamin C can raise your hematocrit. Its been known since the 60s that vitamin c increases the absorption of iron in the intestines, and they are saying this accounts for maybe 10% of the variability in a persons absorption of iron. MOst of it is due to heredity. This might raise your hematocrit.
One individual reported success in lowering his hemoglobin by lowering his vitamin c dose.
Another thing I found is that vitamin c seems to react with free iron in the body, causing a harmful reaction in those that have a high iron store. Here is the article: **broken link removed**

 

[maldorf]

Just found this research that shows that vitamin c can increase the amount of free iron for the formation of red cells. **broken link removed**

Anyone have some knowledge or personal experience to share here?

 

[GoneForever]

interesting. I use 3-4g daily, but it helps so much with my immune system I dont think I could lower it.

 

[Fa Seeshus]

it is good to take it if you are using iron, as iron raises free-radicals

if you are on aas, your hemocrit is gonna be plenty high... wouldn't worry about raising it.

for bbing purposes i wouldn't bother with getting it over 47-48

 

[maldorf]

I will be lowering my vitamin c intake from 1580 mg/day down to 580 mg/day and see what effects are seen. Will also be making some other changes too though, so I wont be able to really single out the vitamin c factor.