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Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)

Antioxidant support and physiological stress response

Science and Ingredients — Formulation Research

This entry documents the biological mechanisms, human research, and formulation rationale for ingredients used in Steady Energy. Content is provided for transparency and educational purposes, not marketing.


Red cherries on rustic wooden surface, green leaves in background, vibrant and fresh.
A vibrant assortment of citrus fruits, including oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes, rich in Vitamin C.

Category


Oxidative balance and tissue support


Why it's included


To support antioxidant defenses and physiological resilience during prolonged physical and environmental stress.



What it is


Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin required for numerous enzymatic reactions in human physiology. Humans cannot synthesize vitamin C endogenously and must obtain it from the diet.


It is best known for its role in antioxidant protection, collagen synthesis, and support of normal immune and connective tissue function.



Mechanism of action


Vitamin C functions primarily as a reducing agent and antioxidant, helping neutralize reactive oxygen species generated during normal metabolism and physical exertion.


It is also required for:

  • Collagen synthesis and connective tissue maintenance


  • Carnitine synthesis involved in energy metabolism


  • Neurotransmitter biosynthesis


  • Support of iron absorption


These roles are supportive and protective rather than stimulatory.



Evidence overview


  • Vitamin C functions as a primary dietary antioxidant in humans


  • Physical exertion and environmental stress increase oxidative demand


  • Adequate vitamin C status supports tissue integrity and metabolic processes


  • Supplementation supports physiological needs when dietary intake is insufficient



Why this matters for long workdays


Physical labor, heat exposure, and prolonged exertion increase oxidative stress within tissues. Over time, this can contribute to fatigue, slower recovery, and connective tissue strain.


Supporting antioxidant capacity helps maintain cellular integrity and resilience during repeated physical and environmental stressors.



Role in Steady Energy


Vitamin C is included to support antioxidant defenses and connective tissue processes that underpin sustained physical performance. It complements ingredients that support hydration, energy metabolism, and circulation.


This reinforces Steady Energy’s emphasis on long-term usability and resilience rather than short-term intensity.



References


Human physiology and peer-reviewed research are cited where available.


  1. Carr AC, Maggini S. Vitamin C and immune function. Nutrients, 2017.

    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=Carr+Maggini+vitamin+C+immune+function


  2. Padayatty SJ et al. Vitamin C as an antioxidant: evaluation of its role in disease prevention. Journal of the American College of Nutrition, 2003.

    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=Padayatty+vitamin+C+antioxidant+role


  3. Levine M et al. Vitamin C pharmacokinetics in healthy volunteers. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 1996.

    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=Levine+vitamin+C+pharmacokinetics


  4. Powers SK et al. Exercise-induced oxidative stress: cellular mechanisms and impact on muscle force production. Physiological Reviews, 2011.

    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=Powers+exercise+oxidative+stress+muscle



This ingredient profile is part of the Steady Energy formulation research series.


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