Vitamin C also known as ascorbic acid happens to be one of the safest, most effective, and essential nutrients, according to experts, and for good measure, as it has various health benefits that we shall take a look at in today's blog. We shall also look at foods that are packed with Vitamin C that can help you to meet your daily intake of this important nutrient.
Benefits of consuming Vitamin C:
While many claims have been made that Vitamin C can protect you from the flu and common cold, it's untrue. However, Vitamin C is known to strengthen your immune system, offer protection from cardiovascular disease, prenatal health problems, eye disease, and even skin wrinkling. You should look to reach 500 milligrams of Vitamin C a day, ideally through whole and natural foods. Vitamin C is also necessary for the growth, development, and repair of all body tissues. It's involved in many body functions, including the formation of collagen, absorption of iron, and the proper functioning of the immune system, thus protecting you from various diseases, especially seasonal ones.
When you don't consume Vitamin C:
A lack of Vitamin C in your body can lead to a host of different health issues. Your body will immediately feel the effects of a lack of Vitamin C and you will find yourself making more frequent trips to your family doctor. Vitamin C deficiency can lead to a disease called scurvy, leading to bleeding gums and bruising. You will also notice that your wounds take long to heal. Your skin will also feel rough and bumpy when touched, and since your joints contain a lot of collagen-rich connective tissue, they can also be affected by vitamin C deficiency, resulting in swollen and extremely painful joints. Lack of Vitamin C can also affect bone health. In fact, low intake has been linked to an increased risk of fracture and osteoporosis. Research has shown that Vitamin C plays an important role in bone formation, and a deficiency can increase the rate of bone loss.
Foods rich in Vitamin C:
If you find that you are lacking in Vitamin C, and are not too keen on consuming tablets, then you can opt for foods that are extremely rich in Vitamin C. Citrus fruits such as Oranges, Sweet limes, Lemons, Tangerines, Brocolli, Red Cabbage, Green and Red peppers, Tomatoes and Kiwis, all of which are rich in Vitamin C. Do make sure to consult your doctor who will advise tests to confirm a lack of Vitamin C in your body, which will also help rule out the possibility of other illnesses.
As always, we at HYP are committed to promoting good health and living a high quality of life and through today's blog, we hope to have answered all your questions surrounding Vitamin C and its health benefits.
Questions?