Gastrointestinal disorders, such as gastritis or ulcers that result from consumption of high-acidity foods, increase the risk of gastric reflux into the esophagus [19]. Ascorbic acid has very high acidity and may induce these gastrointestinal side effects when ingested on an empty stomach [20].

Does vitamin C aggravate acid reflux?

Heartburn and indigestion are especially common in those who are overweight, smoke, are anxious or stressed or who have a hiatus hernia (in which part of the stomach moves up into the chest). In these cases, taking acidic supplements - even a weak acid such as vitamin C - can trigger a burning discomfort.

Can ascorbic acid cause gastritis?

Numerous clinical reports show that ascorbic acid deficiency has been connect with gastritis. Vitamin C levels both in gastric acid and serum have constantly been affirmed to be low in subjects with H. pylori infected gastritis and peptic ulcers.