Vitamin C

Vitamin C Latest News

Recent research suggests that large doses of vitamin C may provide our lungs with a degree of protection from the harmful effects of fine particles in the air.

About Vitamin C

• Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin.
• Function: 
  • It is needed for the growth and repair of tissues in all parts of your body. It is used to:
    • Form an important protein called collagen, used to make skin, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels.
    • Heal wounds and form scar tissue.
    • Repair and maintain cartilage, bones, and teeth.
    • Aid in the absorption of iron.
  • It is a powerful antioxidant that can neutralize harmful free radicals.
  • It helps make several hormones and chemical messengers used in the brain and nerves.
• The body doesn’t make vitamin C. It comes from the diet. 
• Sources: 
  • Vitamin C comes from fruits and vegetables. 
  • Good sources include citrus, red and green peppers, tomatoes, broccoli, and greens. 
  • Some juices and cereals have added vitamin C.
• Vitamin C is sensitive to heat, so some of its nutritional benefits can be lost during cooking. Raw foods are more beneficial as dietary sources.
• Vitamin C is not stored in your body, so deficiency can happen quickly.
• Sometimes, vitamin C deficiency can lead to scurvy.
  • Scurvy symptoms and signs can include anemia, exhaustion, spontaneous bleeding, limb pain, swelling, and sometimes ulceration of the gums and loss of teeth.

Source: SA

‹ ›