Q & A to Keep the Doctor Away
Gifford-Jones, MD answers your questions on how to age gracefully and mindfully to ensure you live the best golden years possible!
Q: How do you know vitamin C and lysine work to protect against heart attack and stroke?
A: As we age, the body’s production of collagen slows down, which can result in aging skin, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, and many other conditions including declining cardiovascular health. Inadequate amounts of vitamin C results in poor collagen. Vitamin C is required to manufacture healthy collagen, the glue that holds cells together, just like mortar is needed for bricks. Lysine, like steel rods in cement, makes collagen stronger. Coronary arteries are under more pressure than any other artery in the body so keeping your veins and arteries healthy is essential for protection against a heart attack or stroke. Without sufficient vitamin C and lysine, the constant pounding in coronary arteries causes minute cracks in collagen, contributing to atherosclerosis, blood clots, or rupturing of a weakened artery, resulting in a stroke. Medi-C Plus® provides high dose vitamin C and lysine to help maintain cardiovascular health.
Q: Why such high doses of vitamin C and lysine?
A: Only 10 mg of vitamin C is needed to guard against scurvy. Standard multi-vitamins have 75 mg of vitamin C. Prescribing these small amounts to prevent coronary attack is like trying to kill an elephant with a BB gun. It requires several thousand milligrams of vitamin C and lysine, as found in Medi-C Plus, to support healthy collagen production, and as we know, collagen is the key to healthy coronary arteries.
Q: How can I avoid losing teeth?
A: Patients often appear surprised when I tell them that vitamin C will help them keep their teeth a lifetime. This is where collagen comes into play again, as the glue that holds cells together and keeps gums healthy. Gums lacking collagen lose their grip on teeth, resulting in tooth loss. Brushing and flossing regularly also goes without saying. I turn 96 this year and I am happy to say I still have my teeth!
Q: Can I take vitamin C if I have a cold or influenza?
A: People who have a cold or influenza, or who suffer a trauma actually have an increased need for higher doses of vitamin C. For instance, a dog who develops an infection and normally produces 5,000 mg of vitamin C daily, will increase the production of vitamin C to 100,000 mg. Humans do not have the ability to make their own vitamin C so taking a supplement like Medi-C Plus is a good idea for fighting viral infections.
Q: Why does Medi-C Plus come in both Calcium and Magnesium Formulas?
A: Medi-C Plus is available in Calcium and Magnesium formulas, both of which act as buffers for the vitamin C. The Calcium formula supports bone health and is suitable for those not getting enough calcium in their diet. Magnesium regulates heart rate and supports immune health, muscles, and neurological systems. Most adults don’t get enough magnesium in their diet and absorption decreases with age. So, whether you choose the Calcium or Magnesium Formulas – both provide effective support for heart health and more.
To maintain optimal health and improve your chances of reaching 90+, I recommend Medi-C Plus with high dose vitamin C and lysine – just mix with your morning juice.
For more health tips and to sign up for my no-nonsense advice for good health go to docgiff.com.