Adrenal Glands, Vitamin C and Health
The adrenal glands have a very high concentration of vitamin C, among the highest in the body. Vitamin C is crucial for the synthesis of adrenal hormones, especially those involved in the stress response. The adrenal glands are very important in regulating blood sugar, blood pressure, keeping inflammation down and helps detoxify just about anything from poisonings, insect bites, allergic reaction, etc..
The “God Father” of vitamin C in large dosage used clinically is former chest specialist Frederick Klenner, MD which Dr. Lendon Smith excellently collated his works and writings in his small, easily read book, Clinical Guide to the Use of Vitamin C. The Clinical Experiences of Frederick R. Klenner, M.D. abbreviated, summarized and annotated by Lendon H. Smith, M.D..
Kirk’s Comment: I personally don’t get into the different forms of vitamin C to say which is best. I frequently take a sodium ascorbate / ascorbic acid mix (1/4 tsp = 1000 mg) and just flick in on my tongue. Do a little “pucker” and I can feel it almost right away. A little uplift in energy, reduced reaction to a food or environment.
Cofactor for Hormone Production:
Vitamin C acts as a cofactor for enzymes involved in the production of adrenal hormones like cortisol and adrenaline.
Antioxidant Protection:
The adrenal glands are vulnerable to oxidative stress during hormone production. Vitamin C, as a potent antioxidant, helps protect them from damage.
Stress Response:
During stress, the adrenal glands release more cortisol and vitamin C, and some studies suggest that adrenal vitamin C levels may decrease during periods of stress due to increased utilization.
Adrenal Fatigue:
Vitamin C can be helpful in managing adrenal fatigue by supporting adrenal hormone production and protecting against oxidative stress.
HORMONES – Let’s Discuss: The Oft-Overlooked Nutrient That Helps Balance Mood & Hormones. By Hannah Frye, Beauty & Health Editor. MindBodyGreen, June 15, 2025.
1) Vitamin C is an important cofactor for both adrenal cortex and adrenal medulla.
2) Insufficient Vitamin C Levels among Adults in the United States: Results from the NHANES Surveys, 2003–2006.
3) Vitamin C improves endothelial function in healthy estrogen-deficient postmenopausal women.
4) Ascorbic acid is associated with favourable hormonal profiles among infertile males.
5) Oral ascorbic acid increases plasma oestradiol during postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy.
6) Vitamin C supplementation alleviates hypercortisolemia caused by chronic stress.
7) Vitamin C: an essential “stress hormone” during sepsis.
8) Ascorbic acid is associated with favourable hormonal profiles among infertile males.
9) Oral ascorbic acid increases plasma oestradiol during postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy.
Kirk Hamilton PA-C
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