Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that’s found in many foods, particularly fruits and vegetables. It’s well known for being a potent antioxidant, as well as having positive effects on skin health and immune function. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient for your body that the body cannot produce by itself- so, we need to ensure that we intake a sufficient amount of vitamin C. Vitamin C is present in various foods like chili peppers, parsley, mustard spinach, kale, kiwi, broccoli, lemon, lychees, papaya, strawberries, oranges, etc. Let’s talk about the ways how vitamin c benefits us.
Reduces the risk of chronic diseases
Vitamin C is a strong antioxidant that can boost your blood antioxidant levels; and, help you boost your immune system. This may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease.
Helps to manage high blood pressure
Vitamin C may help lower blood pressure in both those with and without high blood pressure. Different researches and studies have proven that vitamin C helps to manage blood pressure and bring it to normal. However, it’s not clear whether the effects on blood pressure are long term. Moreover, people with high blood pressure should not rely on vitamin C alone for treatment.
Lowers risk of heart disease
Heart disease is one of the major causes of deaths all around the world. Many factors including high blood pressure, cholesterol level, etc, cause heart disease, which may be reduced by Vitamin C intake. It seems that taking or consuming at least 500 mg of vitamin C daily may reduce the risk of heart disease. However, if you already consume a vitamin-C-rich diet, then supplements may not provide additional heart health benefits.
Boosts immunity
One of the main reasons people take vitamin C supplements is to boost their immunity, as vitamin C is involved in many parts of the immune system. It is essential to regulate the blood system, and it also is an essential part of the skin’s defense system. Moreover, studies have proved that intake of vitamin C also helps to heal wounds in a short period of time.
Prevents iron deficiency
Iron is essential to produce red blood cells in your body and to transport oxygen as well. Vitamin C supplements can help improve the absorption of iron from the diet. Vitamin C assists in converting iron that is poorly absorbed, such as plant-based sources of iron, into a form that is easier to absorb. Ultimately, vitamin C may help reduce the risk of anemia among people prone to iron deficiency.
Source: NepalNews
