5 Reasons Why You Need Vitamin C
The body needs a balanced diet consisting of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals in the right amounts to maintain optimum health. Amongst these, Vitamin C is an essential nutrient for healing of the body. A water soluble vitamin, Vitamin C is also known as Ascorbic acid.
Be it a common cold or some other infection, we are sure to get prescribed Vitamin C every time we visit the doctor. But why is it so important? Vitamin C should be included and obtained through our diet as our body cannot produce it.
Some natural sources of Vitamin C include citric fruits, tomatoes, raspberries, blueberries, and spinach. Vitamin C supplements are also widely available in the markets in the form of chewables, syrups, capsules and many more. Listed below are some reasons why you need to include Vitamin C in your daily routine.
1. Helps with common cold and flu
Although not a cure for common cold and flu, including vitamin C does help prevent the chances of catching a new infection. Taking Vitamin C supplements while sick prevents development of further complications with the infection. It is also known to reduce inflammation and helps with mucus buildup. It reduces the duration of cold and also keeps the severity of the symptoms under control.
2. Reduced risk of stroke
Lack of Vitamin C in diet could be a possible cause of strokes. It is advisable to consume plenty of fruits and vegetables rich in Vitamin C such as oranges and berries to promote overall health. A balanced diet along with a proper workout regime helps prevent the risk of strokes and also helps with recovery among patients who have already suffered a stroke.
3. Reduces risk of diseases associated with stress
A Vitamin C deficiency is known to cause diseases associated with stress. Infact, in chain smokers, alcoholics and people with other addictions, the body’s Vitamin C level is usually among the first nutrients to be seen getting depleted slowly and steadily leading to other diseases.
Consumption of adequate Vitamin C is also important for improving mental health.
4. Keeps skin youthful
Vitamin C has properties which boost cell recovery and speed up the process of tissue repairment. Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant, neutralizing the harmful free radicals of the body. It has anti-aging properties and helps retain the youthful and radiant glow of the skin. Vitamin C helps retain the hydration of the skin, reduces formation of wrinkles and fine lines and prevents dry patches. This is why Vitamin C is a popular ingredient in cosmetic creams and anti aging serums and is widely available in the markets.
5. Prevents the disease Scurvy
When an individual suffers from the disease Scurvy, symptoms such as bleeding gums, weakness, fatigue, easy bruising, and skin rashes are commonly noticed. The health condition Scurvy is caused when the Vitamin C levels of the body drop drastically. Patients suffering from Scurvy are prescribed Vitamin C supplements and advised to consume plenty of fruits and veggies rich in Vitamin C such as strawberries, broccoli and gooseberries. Although not as prevalent as it used to be due to awareness among people, it is a condition which affects the quality of life greatly.
Conclusion:
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient which the body is unable to produce and therefore should be obtained through diet. A lack of Vitamin C in the diet causes health conditions such as Scurvy and stress related diseases. It may also be the cause of strokes. Adequate Vitamin C intake helps retain youthful skin and reduces inflammation. It is an important nutrient necessary for leading a healthy life.
Reference:
www.flintrehab.com/vitamins-for-stroke-recovery/
www.webmd.com/diet/features/the-benefits-of-vitamin-c
www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/
www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/219352
