Benefits of Vitamin C

 Perhaps one of the highly emphasized and known vitamins of all is Vitamin C. It is available from a number of sources including citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, grapefruit and tangerines. It is known to have a number of health benefits like controlling the effects and preventing the common cold symptoms as well as generally boosting the immune system. The antioxidizing properties of Vitamin C are perhaps the most important of its benefits which prevent heart disease, cancer and arthritis. Just like when a cut apple is exposed to air and it turns brownish due to oxidation, the cells in our bodies when exposed to free radicals oxidize and diseases occur. Vitamin C fights the free radicals and prevents such diseases to a great degree.

Vitamin C boosts Immunity

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is responsible for the production of collagen, which is a material that holds the body tissues together. Regular intake of this vitamin will ensure that cuts and bruises heal faster due to increased collagen production holding the tissues and cells together. Vitamin C is water-soluble meaning excess amounts are eliminated from the body in urine. However large amounts of vitamin C are known to cause kidney stones and stomach upsets due to acidic properties.

The absorption of Iron is significantly enhanced by Vitamin C intake making it ideal for the treatment and prevention of anemia. Vitamin C deficiency is evidenced by weak muscles and joints, black, swollen and bleeding gum (also known as scurvy), lose of teeth, tiredness and even depression. Other acceptable sources of Vitamin C apart from citrus fruits include mangoes, paw paws, strawberries, kiwifruit and tomatoes. The outer covering of ginger or is also known to contain high levels of Vitamin C. With all these health benefits, little wonder that Vitamin C is so popular.