Ascorbic acid or Vitamin C is a water-soluble vital nutrient required by the body to perform various bodily functions. Vitamin C is available in the form of dietary supplements and naturally found in many food sources. It functions as a potent antioxidant and shields the body against harmful toxins, reduces the risk of heart disease, and other inflammation.
Vitamin C plays an imperative role in several biological functions such as collagen synthesis, repairing and healing wounds, strengthening bones, cartilage and teeth.
Because the human body can’t produce Vitamin C on its own, it should be supplemented from the diet. Vitamin C is available in a wide range of food sources such as berries, citrus fruits, tomatoes, peppers, cabbage, broccoli and spinach. Today, there are many natural Vitamin C supplements available in the oral form as tablets.
The recommended dietary allowance of Vitamin C for an average adult male is 90mg per day and 75 mg per day for an average adult female.
Are there health benefits of taking Vitamin C supplements? Well, yes! There are many, let’s look at them.
- Boost The Immune System
Because Vitamin C is actively involved in the functioning of the immune system, the supplements help trigger the immune system. Vitamin C helps in the production of WBCs such as phagocytes and lymphocytes, which shield the body against infections. Vitamin C also plays a pivotal role in enhancing the skin defense system and augments the wound healing process.
- Regulates Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is related to an increased risk of heart diseases. Vitamin C help relax the blood vessels and improve the blood circulation from and to the heart that assists in reducing the blood pressure levels significantly.
- Treats Iron Deficiency
Iron is a vital mineral that performs essential bodily functions like:
- Transporting oxygen and vital nutrients to the cells in the body
- Making new red blood cells
Vitamin C supplements stimulate the absorption of iron from the diet. Vitamin C plays a significant role in converting iron from plant-based sources into an absorbable form. Regular intake of these supplements helps pump iron stores and correct iron deficiency anemia.
- Remedies Gout
Gout is caused due to high build-up of the uric acid level in the blood, which causes inflammation of the joints. Regular consumption of Vitamin C supplements helps bring down the high levels of uric acid in the blood and lower the risk of gout episodes.
- Lowers Risk of Chronic Diseases
Vitamin C is valued as a potent antioxidant, which can boost the body’s natural defense mechanism and keep disease away. The antioxidant nature of Vitamin C stimulates the immune response by safeguarding the cells from oxidative stress.
When you intake Vitamin C supplement, it increases the antioxidant levels in the blood, reduces the risk of chronic diseases such as hypertension and heart disease.
Conclusion
Vitamin C is a must-have nutrient in the form of diet or supplements. This vital vitamin plays a crucial role in stimulating antioxidant levels, controlling blood pressure, improving iron absorption and enhancing overall skin health. The natural Vitamin C supplements are an excellent way to promote well-being.
