Vitamin C is an anti-oxidant that has numerous health benefits, from increasing immunity and heart health benefits, to aiding iron absorption and helping prevent scurvy as well as shortening cold symptoms.
Vitamin C is essential for human health and should be obtained either through diet or supplements daily. As it’s a water-soluble nutrient, supplementation with it is advised.[1]
Vitamin C: Essential for Immune Health and Beyond
Vitamin C, commonly referred to as ascorbic acid, is essential to the production and absorption of collagen and elastin as well as for proper functioning of our immune systems. Vitamin C also acts as an antioxidant against damaging molecules called free radicals which could otherwise damage cells.
The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of vitamin C for men is 90 milligrams a day and 75 milligrams for women, being water-soluble nutrients that excrete in urine when overconsumed. While our bodies do hold some reserves of vitamin C, getting adequate daily from diet is vital.
Depleted vitamin C levels may lead to scurvy, an illness characterized by weakness or lethargy, skin and tooth decay, swollen gums and bleeding in the mouth as well as loose teeth. Other symptoms may also include fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, easily bruised bones and low immunity.
Consuming foods rich in vitamin C is important, with plenty of sources found in fruits and vegetables such as strawberries, kiwis and blueberries, guavas and cantaloupes being some of the top sources; tomatoes; cooked greens such as turnip or spinach; red and green peppers as well as oranges being among them. By eating enough vitamin C-rich food each day, one may reduce their risk of hemorrhagic or ischemic stroke caused by compromised blood vessels.
Vitamin C: Antioxidant
Vitamin C, more formally known as L-ascorbic acid and ascorbate, is an antioxidant which protects cells and tissues from damage. A water-soluble vitamin found naturally in many foods as well as available as dietary supplements; because our bodies cannot produce this essential nutrient on its own.
Vitamin E plays an integral part in many bodily processes, from tissue growth and repair to collagen formation (used to make skin, bones, tendons and healing wounds), iron absorption from nonheme sources and wound healing. Furthermore, it directly scavenges free radicals while participating in the recycling of other antioxidants like vitamin E.
Studies suggest that diets rich in vitamin C may offer protection from certain cancers, particularly lung and prostate cancers, however more research needs to be conducted in this area. Furthermore, large doses of vitamin C taken as supplements such as those found in supplemental forms can cause adverse reactions like nausea and diarrhea in sensitive individuals.
Vitamin C has long been recognized for its effectiveness as a natural cold remedy, aiding infection fight back, and strengthening immunity. Although taking Vitamin C will not prevent colds or flus, studies have demonstrated its benefits in shortening duration of symptoms and severity; as well as helping relieve discomfort caused by respiratory infections while decreasing cortisol levels in your system.
Vitamin C: Anti-Inflammatory
Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from free radical damage caused by unstable molecules known as free radicals that damage them and lead to oxidative stress. Furthermore, its anti-inflammatory properties help decrease susceptibility for inflammation and disease in the body.
Studies demonstrate the value of eating foods rich in Vitamin C to protect and treat cardiovascular diseases, prenatal health issues, eye diseases and skin wrinkling. Vitamin C helps the body absorb nonheme iron primarily found in plant foods – essential for immune health – while its other effects include strengthening immunity systems, treating colds more effectively and aiding wound healing.
Vitamin C directly neutralizes free radicals while helping regenerate other antioxidants such as Vitamin E and Tetrahydrobiopterin. Furthermore, Vitamin C facilitates neutrophil migration to sites of infection while simultaneously increasing phagocytosis and killing. Furthermore, Vitamin C acts as an essential cofactor for monooxygenases enzymes such as Lysine deoxygenases enzymes.
Some drugs may reduce levels of vitamin C, so always consult your physician before taking supplements or altering the dosage of prescribed medication. Examples include metformin (Glumetza, Glucophage) for diabetes management, folic acid and iron supplements, arthritis medications such as metformin or seizure medication as well as medications used for arthritis or lung conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or bronchitis treatment. Vitamin C generally considered safe but large doses may cause diarrhea or stomach upset in some individuals.
Vitamin C: Immune System Support
Vitamin C is an antioxidant found naturally in certain foods and supplements that helps defend against free radicals, unstable atoms that damage cells and contribute to premature aging and disease. Vitamin C helps defend against free radicals by neutralizing them before they damage our cells causing premature aging or disease.
Studies show that regular consumption of vitamin C can boost immunity, prevent and lessen the duration and severity of common illnesses like the cold and flu, assist iron absorption in the body and protect against sun-induced skin aging.
Many medical conditions can reduce vitamin C absorption, with higher dosages typically needed by those receiving chemotherapy for cancer treatment or those on chronic hemodialysis for end-stage renal disease. High-dose intravenous (IV) vitamin C may also be administered but must always be done so under close medical supervision.
Vitamin C, commonly referred to as L-ascorbic acid or ascorbate, is an essential water-soluble nutrient necessary for human health and immune support. It can be found in citrus fruits and vegetables as well as supplements like tablets or powders added to beverages; in topical treatments for treating melasma as well as inclusions in skincare products. There is no evidence suggesting one form of vitamin C over another for absorption; any product labeled “vitamin C” should work effectively.
