 |
Benefits of VITAMIN CVitamin C is among the most versatile antioxidant vitamins that help our body fight infection. Also known as ascorbic acid, Vitamin C is water-soluble. Thus, it is not stored in our body and excess amounts are lost through urine. Vitamin C In NatureThe best natural sources of Vitamin C are blackcurrant, guava, broccoli, all types of citrus fruits, and most fresh fruits and vegetables. Although oranges are famous for being rich in the vitamin, guava and blackcurrant contain more Vitamin C. Guava and blackcurrant contain 230 mg and 200 mg Vitamin C per 100 g respectively compared to only 54 mg per 100 g in oranges. So do not be fooled into eating only oranges to up your Vitamin C levels. Even papaya, strawberries, kiwi and broccoli provide more Vitamin C than oranges.Benefits of Vitamin C
Who Would Benefit?Although Vitamin C is vital for everyone, some people may need to increase their intake by either eating more Vitamin C-rich foods or taking supplements.Smokers25 g of Vitamin C in the body is depleted with each cigarette that is smoked. Smokers should take regular supplements of this vitamin.People With CataractVitamin C supplements have been shown to reduce the risk of cataract development. Patients suffering from the eye disease have shown great improvement in their vision only after two weeks of taking a 350 mg Vitamin C supplement daily.Accident Victim / After SurgeryVitamin C helps in wound recovery. People recovering from injury or surgery can benefit from taking daily supplements. Studies show that patients who take 200 to 250 mg of the vitamin daily have an improved recovery rate following their operation.Recurring Cold SoresVitamin C may help if you frequently have this problem. Take around 1,000 to 2,000 mg of Vitamin C daily and see the effects.Who Else?Others who may need to take Vitamin C supplements are people who suffer from lack of energy, have skin that is easily bruised or experience frequent nosebleeds.Absorption HelperFruits, calcium and magnesium aid in the absorption of this vitamin.Absorption InhibitorsAbsorbing the vitamin becomes difficult if you smoke, use contraceptive pills, aspirin or other drugs to treat infection, acne and arthritis.CautionAlthough it is a safe vitamin (considered non-toxic even at very high doses), precautions must be taken when using Vitamin C supplements. People who are prone to kidney stones or gout are advised against large intakes. If you are going for a blood or urine test while taking Vitamin C supplements, let your doctor know because your test results could be inaccurate.The recommended daily allowance is 60 mg. You can get this from a cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice. The average healthy person can take between 400 and 1000 mg a day. Also Read:
|