Have you ever heard of the Camu Camu fruit? I hadn't either so I thought I would show you a few interesting facts about this fruit from the Amazon Rainforest. It is a small fruit the size of a large cherry. Residents in the areas where these low-growing trees are found often harvest the fruits directly into small boats or canoes as they row under the trees. The reason this fruit is so highly concentrated in vitamin C is because it thrives in lush rain forest soil enriched by the floodwaters of the Amazon Basin. This fruit contains thirty times more vitamin C than an orange, ten times as much iron, three times as much niacin, twice as much riboflavin and fifty percent more phosphorus. It is a significant source of potassium, minerals and amino acids. So a "full-spectrum" vitamin C is an all natural nutrient rich nutritional supplement that is highly absorbable by the human body using all of the natural cofactors required for nutrient assimilation.

Dr. Gary Null, Ph. D. has named Camu-Camu at the top of his list of compounds with antidepressant properties, as well it's effectiveness against the herpes virus. Vitamin C is a highly effective antioxidant, even in small amounts it can protect molecules in the body (proteins, fats, carbohydrates, DNA and RNA) from damage by free radicals that can be caused by normal metabolic processes and exposure to environmental toxins. Vitamin C is known to be able to regenerate other antioxidants such as vitamin E.

Additionally,Pure Camu™contains natural cofactors that support proper serotonin levels in the brain, enhancing and elevating mood.

Dr Mike Adams, aka The Health Ranger explains in further detail about the benefits of Camu Camu. "I'll tell you a secret about camu. Camu camu is the highest natural source of vitamin C in the world. And it's not just one isolated chemical (ascorbic acid), it's the full symphony of protective antioxidants. My research on this herb, based in part of the works of Dr. James Duke, leads me to the conclusion that camu camu crosses the blood-brain barrier and offers extraordinary protection to the nervous system. There is no question in my mind that this product can drastically reduce eye disorders, including macular degeneration, as well as protect the brain and nervous system from degenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and dementia."

"Most people today have barely enough vitamin C in their bodies to prevent scurvy under normal living conditions" ~ Jonathan Campbell, Health Consultant

Shortages of vitamin C may result in "pinpoint" hemorrages under the skin and a tendency to bruise easily, poor wound healing, soft and spongy bleeding gums and loose teeth. Edema (water retention) also happens with a shortage of vitamin C, and weakness, lack of energy, poor digestion, painful joints and bronchial infection. Colds are a indicator of an under-supply.

When purchasing vitamin C make sure to buy ascorbic acid not the chelated forms such as calcium or sodium ascorbate because of their inferior quality.

Dosages for protecting against the flu are as follows:

• Start at 1000mg/meal
• Increase slowly to 2000-4000 mg/meal

(This is an adult dosage, modify by body weight for children). The optimal dose is just below the point where your body complains with mild diarrhea or "bowel intolerance dose". Make sure to take vitamin C with food to prevent an upset tummy. Also a good idea to rinse your mouth out afterwards to prevent mouth irritation or possible interaction with tooth enamel.

Teens Health has an excellent chart for specific food vitamin contents.

The good news is that foods high in vitamin C are very delicious, so get your share as often as possible. Red Berries, Kiwi, Red and Green Bell Peppers, Tomatoes, Broccoli, Spinach, and juices made from Guava, Grapefruit, and Orange.