Health Benefits of Vitamin C

Health Benefits of Vitamin C

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  1. For years many have taken Vitamin C–be it in pill form or from food– and the health benefits have been effective and healthy. Vitamin C is important for growth, repair and development of our body tissues and is involved in many needed functions such the absorption and incorporation of iron, the formation of collagen, aiding the immune system and the healthy maintenance of our teeth, bones and cartilage.

    More Health Benefits from Vitamin C

    Other great benefits that come from Vitamin C are fighting the common cold, being a powerful antioxidant and protecting us from possible illnesses, lowering blood pressure, helping our blood vessels to dilate when needed, lowers our blood level toxicity and protecting our eyes from cataracts. Clearly, the human body needs Vitamin C. So, what sources have the Vitamin C we need?

    Sources of Vitamin C

    There are many sources of Vitamin C. Those that have substantial amounts of Vitamin C in them are the following: apricots, Bell peppers, Cauliflower, grapefruit, Gooseberries, Okra, onion, oranges, potatoes, Sweet Potatoes and Watermelon. Other sources of Vitamin C that are good but have a lower content of this vitamin are: corn, green beans, celery, blueberries, bananas, peaches and plums.

    How much Vitamin C do we Need?

    The recommendation for adults is 2,000 milligrams (mg) a day. However, for most of us, a healthy diet can provide the right amounts of vitamin c our bodies need.  Symptoms of a mega dose of Vitamin C are: insomnia, headaches, stomach cramps, vomiting, nausea, diarrhea and kidney stones.

    Feeling more Positive: Another Benefit

    Scientists have found another benefit of Vitamin C and that is having a more positive attitude. Recent studies have shown that those who take adequate amounts of vitamin c feel happier and better able to handle to meet the needs of the day. Those who have shown a deficiency of Vitamin C are often depressed and tired but after taking Vitamin C, they feel healthier and more positive.

    Interesting Facts about Vitamin C

    Many years ago "seamen were called limeys because they ate lots of citrus fruits."  They ate a lot of citrus fruits  because they knew–back in the 1700s that if they didn’t, they might come down with scurvy. Because they couldn’t take fresh vegetables and fruits with them on the trip, many seamen at the time often died because of the lack of vitamin c.

    To conclude, vitamin c is an important vitamin and its benefits such as boosting the immune system and lowering blood pressure are just a few reasons why this vitamin is vital for your good health. You can also get vitamin c in a non-prescriptive form. However, just like any kind of medication or vitamin supplement, use caution when taking it. When in doubt, talk with your physician on how much to take and when to take it.

    References:

    MayoClinic.com (2012) Nutrition and healthy eating. Retrieved January 25, 2012 from: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/benefits-vitamin-c/ANO2160

    Vita Logic (2012) Fun Facts about Vitamin C Retrieved January 25, 2012 from: http://www.vitalogicvitamins.com/product/fun/facts-about-vitamin-c/health_resources

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