Vitamin C: A review on its role in the management of metabolic syndrome

Abstract

Oxidative stress and inflammation are two interlinked events that exist simultaneously in metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its related complications. These pathophysiological processes can be easily triggered by each other. This review summarizes the current evidence from animal and human studies on the effects of vitamin C in managing MetS. In vivo studies showed promising effects of vitamin C, but most of the interventions used were in combination with other compounds. The direct effects of vitamin C remain to be elucidated. In humans, the current state of evidence revealed that lower vitamin C intake and circulating concentration were found in MetS subjects. A negative relationship was observed between vitamin C intake / concentration and the risk of MetS. Oral supplementation of vitamin C also improved MetS conditions. It has been postulated that the positive outcomes of vitamin C may be in part mediated through its anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. These observations suggest the importance of MetS patients to have an adequate intake of vitamin C through food, beverages or supplements in order to maintain its concentration in the systemic circulation and potentially reverse MetS.