As we evolved we lost the ability to produce vitamin C in our liver like most other mammals. Humans and guinea pigs are the only two mammals that do not produce vitamin C and require food sources to supply this vital nutrient. However, it turns out the amount of vitamin C we can get from food source is only enough to prevent the first signs of scurvy. If we analyze the amount of vitamin C produced in various mammals we find we should be ingesting 2,000 to 20,000 milligrams per day. You cannot eat enough oranges to get this. The research results provided by Dr. Matthais Rath indicates we need to supplement our diets with vitamin C to prevent artherosclerosis and cancer.
With respect to depletion of the soil many people feel vegetables and fruits would not grow without adequate vitamins and minerals. This has been proven false. A study has shown vegetables grown in Nebraska are deficient in selenium whereas the same vegetables grown in South Dakota have plenty. However, both of these look the same. Many studies around the world are starting to locate pockets of these problems. The problem is farmers fertilize using only three minerals to get bumper crops--nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium. Less minor elements are not in the mix. This leads me to believe we need to supplement our diets with vitamins and minerals.
One of my future projects and interests will be to develop a device that will measure our bodily fluids and functions to figure out what we are missing. Every person has different needs.
My particular supplements are:
Metamucil--Psylium fiber--one half tablespoon per day
provide needed fiber to minimize bleeding hemorrhoids
Vitamin C--Ascorbic Acid crystals--4 to 6 grams per day
to improve the health of my arteries and minimize cancer risk
see Dr. Rath's research results for more information.
Arginine--4 grams per day to improve blood circulation for sexual vitality
Using a Zinc Status Test by Ethical Nutrients it indicated a zinc deficiency which also correlates with research indicating tinnitis may be due to lack of zinc. Also zinc must be accompanied by copper in a ratio of 15 to 1. I now eat oysters every few days for a natural source of zinc and copper.