Ascorbic Acid vs. Sodium Ascorbate — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Published on December 14, 2023
Ascorbic Acid is vitamin C in its pure form, while Sodium Ascorbate is its sodium salt, often used as a more neutral pH vitamin C source.
Difference Between Ascorbic Acid and Sodium Ascorbate
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Ascorbic Acid and Sodium Ascorbate are two related compounds both associated with vitamin C. Ascorbic Acid is the pure, acidic form of vitamin C, essential for various bodily functions.
On the other hand, Sodium Ascorbate is a derivative of Ascorbic Acid. When Ascorbic Acid is combined with sodium bicarbonate, it forms Sodium Ascorbate, a buffered and less acidic form of vitamin C.
Both Ascorbic Acid and Sodium Ascorbate provide the benefits of vitamin C, but their difference in pH means they might be chosen for different purposes. Ascorbic Acid, being acidic, can be more irritating to sensitive stomachs, while Sodium Ascorbate offers a gentler alternative.
In terms of supplementation, Ascorbic Acid is often used in vitamin C tablets and powders, owing to its pure form. Sodium Ascorbate, due to its neutral pH, is frequently preferred in liquid supplements or when a non-acidic alternative is desired.
To summarize, while both Ascorbic Acid and Sodium Ascorbate serve as sources of vitamin C, their chemical properties and uses can differ, with Sodium Ascorbate being the buffered, less acidic version.
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Comparison Chart
Chemical Nature
Acidic
Neutral
Formula
C₆H₈O₆
C₆H₇NaO₆
PH Level
Acidic
Close to Neutral
Common Use
Vitamin C tablets and powders
Liquid supplements, non-acidic alternatives
Derived From
Natural vitamin C sources
Ascorbic Acid combined with sodium bicarbonate
Compare with Definitions
Ascorbic Acid
Ascorbic Acid is the pure form of vitamin C.
Oranges are a rich source of Ascorbic Acid.
Sodium Ascorbate
Sodium Ascorbate can be derived from Ascorbic Acid.
Mixing Ascorbic Acid with sodium bicarbonate yields Sodium Ascorbate.
Ascorbic Acid
Ascorbic Acid acts as a potent antioxidant.
Ascorbic Acid helps combat free radicals in the body.
Sodium Ascorbate
Sodium Ascorbate is the sodium salt of Ascorbic Acid.
Sodium Ascorbate offers a non-acidic alternative to vitamin C supplementation.
Ascorbic Acid
Ascorbic Acid is an organic acid with a sour taste.
High levels of Ascorbic Acid give citrus fruits their tangy flavor.
Sodium Ascorbate
Sodium Ascorbate provides vitamin C in a buffered form.
Those with sensitive stomachs might prefer Sodium Ascorbate.
Ascorbic Acid
Ascorbic Acid aids in the absorption of iron.
Combining iron-rich foods with Ascorbic Acid can enhance iron uptake.
Sodium Ascorbate
Sodium Ascorbate is often used in liquid vitamin C supplements.
The drink contains Sodium Ascorbate for a smoother taste.
Ascorbic Acid
Ascorbic Acid is essential for collagen synthesis.
The role of Ascorbic Acid in wound healing is pivotal.
Sodium Ascorbate
Sodium Ascorbate is neutral in pH.
Unlike Ascorbic Acid, Sodium Ascorbate doesn't taste sour.
Common Curiosities
Is Ascorbic Acid acidic?
Yes, Ascorbic Acid has an acidic pH.
Can Ascorbic Acid help with iron absorption?
Yes, Ascorbic Acid aids in the absorption of iron.
What is Ascorbic Acid?
Ascorbic Acid is the pure form of vitamin C.
How does Sodium Ascorbate differ from Ascorbic Acid?
Sodium Ascorbate is the sodium salt of Ascorbic Acid and is less acidic.
Why might someone choose Sodium Ascorbate over Ascorbic Acid?
Sodium Ascorbate is often chosen for its neutral pH, especially by those with sensitive stomachs.
How is Sodium Ascorbate made?
Sodium Ascorbate is made by combining Ascorbic Acid with sodium bicarbonate.
Is Sodium Ascorbate natural?
While it can be derived from natural Ascorbic Acid, it's a compound formed with sodium bicarbonate.
Which form of vitamin C is more stomach-friendly?
Sodium Ascorbate, due to its neutral pH, is gentler on the stomach.
What foods are rich in Ascorbic Acid?
Citrus fruits, strawberries, and peppers are rich in Ascorbic Acid.
Are both compounds sources of vitamin C?
Yes, both Ascorbic Acid and Sodium Ascorbate provide vitamin C.
Are there any side effects to consuming too much Ascorbic Acid?
Excessive Ascorbic Acid can lead to stomach upset and diarrhea.
Which one is commonly found in vitamin C tablets?
Ascorbic Acid is commonly used in vitamin C tablets.
Does Ascorbic Acid have antioxidant properties?
Yes, Ascorbic Acid acts as a potent antioxidant.
Can Sodium Ascorbate be used in food preservation?
Yes, Sodium Ascorbate can be used as an antioxidant in food preservation.
Is Sodium Ascorbate safe for daily consumption?
In recommended doses, Sodium Ascorbate is generally considered safe for daily consumption. However, always consult a healthcare professional.
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Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
