Vitamin C is an essential building block for our cells and is also known as ascorbic acid. Unfortunately, unlike most other mammals, human beings do not have the ability to produce their own Vitamin C. Therefore, it is essential to obtain Vitamin C through our diet.
Why does the body require Vitamin C ?
Vitamin C is required for the synthesis of collagen, an important structural component of blood vessels, bones, ligaments, tendons. Collagen is found in abundance in our eyes and heart as well. The breakdown of collagen brings the breakdown of immunity and various dengerative ailments can appear. Moreover, it triggers aging process; visible wrinkles. Vitamin C provides basic foundation and support to the cells of our body and also plays an important role in cellular repair and replication. You can undoubtedly understand the importance of Vitamin C without which the cells would be unable to repair the damage caused by attacks.
Vitamin C also plays an important part in our brain function as it plays an important role in the synthesis of neurotransmitter. Neurotransmitters are very critical to brain function and are well known for their role in affecting mood. Apart from the above, Vitamin C is a highly effective antioxidant.
Where can you find Vitamin C ?
Vitamin C is found in many fruits and vegetables like orange, grapefruit, strawberries, tomato, broccoli, potato, sweet red pepper , cabbage, lemon, spinach, papaya and many more. Moreover, there are various readily available supplements in the market.
Diseases associated with deficiency of Vitamin C
Severe Vitamin C deficiency leads to number of unwanted diseases in our body. Scurvy is one of the most common disease due to lack of Vitamin C. Symptoms of scurvy includes hair and tooth loss, swelling, bleeding, bruising easily and joint pains, fatigue. As it has a direct impact on our blood vessels, studies have revealed that lack of Vitamin C can invite fatal cardiovascular diseases. (heart disease and stroke). Decreased levels of Vitamin C have been linked with increased severity of catracts in human beings.
Benefits of Vitamn C
Apart from the prevention of above diseases, Vitamin C is also know for decreasing the severity and length of common cold. It also helps prevents lead poisoning and can be useful in treatment of cancer.
Overdose of Vitamin C
Generally, excess vitamin C leaves the body with urine but continuous excessive doses can lead to kidney and bladder stones. It can also destroy vitamin B12 , lead to loss of calcium, causes nosebleed and reduce the effectiveness of blood thinners.
So now that you know the importance of Vitamin C, make sure that you have sufficient intake in your diet. Your best bet would be to include good amount of vegetables and fruits in your daily meals. You are then relax and not worry too much, your body and its marvellous system will take care of the rest.
