Guide to Vitamin C and why we need it
Guide to Vitamin C and why we need it
We’ve always heard that vitamin C is important to keep us healthy, but what exactly does it do? It is indeed a necessary vitamin to maintain our bones, blood and skin. It is also crucial in battling infections and skin wrinkles.
Keep reading and learn some of its impressive benefits.
Why is it important?
Vitamin C can be naturally found in some foods such as vegetables and fruits. Vegetables and fruits must be part of our diet in order to provide our bodies with enough vitamins. Once this happens we can start noticing the benefits it bring.
Stronger white blood cells
Vitamin C supports your body by boosting the production of lymphocytes and improving the absorption of iron which are key elements to fight infections. Your body is also protected against unstable molecules and free radicals. A person’s immune system that has enough vitamin C will heal faster and be less likely to suffer from skin conditions.
Protects your central nervous system
It has been proved that vitamin C is a strong antioxidant that helps your memory last longer when you get older. Moreover, studies suggest that people who have sufficient vitamin C have a stronger central nervous system, reducing the risk of dementia.
Healthier heart
Having adequate vitamin C helps to bring down high levels of cholesterol, which is the main cause of heart diseases. It also helps to lower blood pressure. However, this nutrient should be taken regularly for it to work its wonders.
Useful for weight loss
If you are looking for stronger muscles or you just want to lose some pounds, vitamin C may be your solution. It is a fact that when a person has enough vitamin C, his or her body oxidises more fat in less time than someone who is deficient. Did you know that most gym-related supplements contain this nutrient for its incredible effects?
Healthy skin and hair
Have you ever read about what your hair and skin products contain? It is no wonder they have some vitamin C because this nutrient is great in producing protein collagen which helps your skin and hair look radiant.
Not enough Vitamin C?
Heard of vitamin C deficiency or scurvy? Even though it isn’t a common condition, a human body may in this instance, suffer a severe lack of vitamin C, causing serious problems. Some of the symptoms are:
- Severe skin conditions and red spots.
- Muscle pain and sore joints.
- Fever and fatigue.
- Bleeding gums.
- Weaker immune system.
When is it too much?
Taking more than 2,000 mg per day can start to irritate your digestive tract, although vitamin C is water-soluble. As a result, symptoms such as stomach pain and diarrhea may occur. These cases are not common though.
The best sources
The ever popular oranges aren’t the only product that contain vitamin C. In fact, there are other food sources for instance, chili peppers, parsley, kiwis, strawberries, broccoli and lemons. Furthermore, cauliflower, mustard spinach and kale contain this nutrient.
Some experts say that it is better not to cook these foods for too long since they may lose their benefits. Perhaps it is better to eat them raw, if possible. For the latest self-care tips, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram and Twitter.
Disclaimer:
Our information and products are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent any disease or disorder, including its related conditions. Our information and products have not been evaluated by any local authority.
If you are unsure of our information and products, please consult a medical doctor before use. This is especially so if you are taking any medications now, under medical supervision, pregnant or breastfeeding.
References:
- James M. National Institutes of Health.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3725125/ - Ramesh R. Scholars Journal of Agriculture and Veterinary Sciences.
https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/37e2/2073dc844906d1793a89e31515870eb61736.pdf - National Institutes of Health.
https://ods.od.nih.gov/pdf/factsheets/VitaminC-Consumer.pdf
Disclaimer
Any opinions or views of third parties expressed in the article above are those of the third parties identified, and not those of OCBC Bank. There may be links or hyperlinks in this page which link you to websites of other third parties (the "Third Parties"). OCBC Bank hereby disclaims liability for any information, materials, products or services posted or offered in the article above, or on the web-site of the Third Parties. OCBC Bank is not responsible for and makes no representations or warranties in respect of this article, or of any of the Third Parties' websites, nor in respect of any products, services or information provided by such Third Parties. OCBC Bank shall not be responsible or liable for any damage, loss, liability, expense or other consequences suffered or incurred by you, including without limitation, direct, indirect, special or consequential damage or economic loss, arising from or in connection with any reliance by you on this article, or your access to and/or use of the Third Parties' websites.