Q and A to keep the doctor away

Questions and Answers to Keep the Doctor Away

Dr. W. Gifford-Jones answers your questions on how to age gracefully and consciously to ensure you live the best retirement possible!

Q: How do you know that vitamin C and lysine work to protect against heart attack and stroke?

A: As we age, the body’s production of collagen slows, which can lead to aging skin, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis and many other conditions including deteriorating cardiovascular health. Inadequate amounts of vitamin C result in low collagen. Vitamin C is needed to make healthy collagen, the glue that holds cells together, much like mortar for bricks. Lysine acts like the steel rods in concrete to make collagen stronger. The coronary arteries are under more pressure than any other artery in the body. Therefore, keeping veins and arteries healthy is crucial to guard against a heart attack or stroke. Without enough vitamin C and lysine, the constant pounding of blood in the coronary arteries causes tiny cracks in the collagen, contributing to atherosclerosis, blood clots, or the rupture of a weakened artery, resulting in a stroke. Medi-C Plus® provides a high dose of vitamin C and lysine to help maintain good cardiovascular health.

Q: Why do I need to consume high doses of vitamin C and lysine?

 A: Only 10 mg of vitamin C is required to protect against scurvy. Ordinary multiple vitamins contain 75 mg of vitamin C. Prescribing small amounts to prevent coronary failure is like trying to kill an elephant with a BB gun. It takes several thousand milligrams of vitamin C and lysine, like the amounts found in Medi-C Plus, to support healthy collagen production, and as we know, collagen is key to healthy coronary arteries.

Q: How can I avoid losing my teeth?

A: Patients often seem surprised when I tell them that vitamin C will help them keep their teeth for life. This is where collagen comes into play again, as the glue that holds cells together and keeps gums healthy. Gums that lack collagen lose their grip on the teeth, leading to tooth loss. Brushing and flossing regularly also go without saying. This year, I will be 96 and I am happy to say that I still have my teeth!

Q: Can I take vitamin C if I have a cold or flu? 

A: People who have a cold or flu, or who have suffered trauma, actually have an increased need for higher doses of vitamin C. For example, a dog that develops an infection and normally produces 5,000 mg of vitamin C per day will increase its production of vitamin C to 100,000 mg. However, humans do not have the ability to make their own vitamin C. Therefore, taking a supplement like Medi-C Plus is a good idea to fight viral infections.

Q: Why is Medi-C Plus offered in calcium and magnesium formulas?

A: Medi-C Plus is offered in calcium and magnesium formulas, both of which act as buffers for vitamin C. The calcium formula supports bone health and is suitable for people who do not consume enough calcium in their diet. The magnesium formula regulates heart rhythm and promotes immune health, muscles, and neurological systems. Most adults do not consume enough magnesium in their diet, and its absorption decreases with age. So, whether you choose the calcium formula or the magnesium formula, both provide effective support for heart health and more.

To maintain optimal health and improve your chances of reaching 90 and beyond, I recommend Medi-C Plus which contains a high dose of vitamin C and lysine. Just mix the product into your morning juice.

For more health tips and to sign up for my practical health advice, go to docgiff.com.