Health Benefits of Vitamin C
Vitamin C, otherwise known as L-ascorbic acid and simply as vitamin C, is an important vitamin required for the healthy function of many parts of the body. It’s used in the process of DNA synthesis and in the formation of collagen, elastin, and other tissues. It is essential for the immune system and cell rejuvenation. Vitamin C also helps to remove excess fluid from the cells and is a powerful antioxidant. The best way to get enough vitamin C to meet these functions is to take a multi-vitamin supplement containing it as an active ingredient. However, if you don’t have the time or the opportunity to take a multivitamin every day, then here are a few ways you can get the vitamins your body needs:
If you already eat a healthy diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, there are several things you can do to increase the amount of vitamin C in your body. Fresh citrus fruits, oranges and lemons contain high levels of vitamin C. They also contain a number of other nutrients such as vitamin A, E, and K. Just make sure you don’t over-drink them, as they will lose all their vitamin C content within the first two weeks of drinking them. In addition to citrus fruits, fresh watermelon, cantaloupe, strawberries, spinach, broccoli, papaya, watermelon, and papaya juice are excellent sources of vitamin C. Drinking about a glass of these fruits per day will give you a good source of the vitamin.
Other ways to get more vitamin C in your body is to eat foods that have lots of beta-carotene, such as tomatoes, peppers, carrots, and potatoes. These contain a lot of vitamin A, and some studies have shown that people who eat more beta-carotene have better vision than those who don’t. Also, you can get a lot of vitamin C by eating dark leafy greens. Green leafy vegetables contain a high amount of vitamin A as well as other antioxidants. Eat a small handful of these vegetables per day, and they will provide you with the daily dose of vitamin C you need to stay healthy and strong.
A food writer with a passion for classic Americana. Toby specialises in exploring the history, culture, and flavour profiles of traditional diner fare—from stacked pancakes to sizzling burgers.
