Vitamin C is a well known vitamin that many people use. Most commonly, it is known to help support our immune systems, but it has so many other applications as well. It is a versatile vitamin which is essential for many processes in the body so, unsurprisingly, we need to make sure that we are getting plenty of it in our diets, or through supplementation. Here are some of the benefits of this amazing vitamin:

1) Essential Co-Factor

Vitamin C is required for our bodies to be able to metabolise certain compounds in our body, including folic acid and iron, cholesterol and amino acids. Without this essential vitamin, our bodies wouldn’t be able to take these compounds on!

2) Eye Protection, Cell Protection and Antioxidant properties

Vitamin C protects the body from oxidative damage by neutralising free radicals in the body and by protecting other antioxidant enzymes.  It also has the ability to recycle oxidised vitamin E, which can offer great protection against cardiovascular disease, and help to support the heart.

Because of it’s abilities as an antioxidant, it is fantastic for eye health. Often cataracts and macular degeneration can be caused by free radical damage so vitamin C can help to reduce the effects of that damage.

3) Immune Support

As we all know, vitamin C has been shown to be an important contributor to our immune systems. It is thought to boost white blood cell function and antibody production, which is the cornerstone of our immune system. By aiding the immune system, it can be used to help prevent infection and to inhibit virus activity. Some studies have shown that vitamin C can also have an effect on lowering histamine levels, making it a potential treatment for allergies and asthma.

4) Joints, Connective Tissue and Anti-Inflammatory benefits

Vitamin C has been shown to have a significant benefit on all of the body’s connective tissue, primarily through it’s role of collagen synthesis. It inhibits inflammatory processes, making it greatly beneficial for healing and recovery and has been shown to ease the symptoms of some joint problems such as arthritis.

Looking at all of these potential applications of vitamin C, it is easy to see why it is such an essential part of our body’s daily processes. We can get it from many food sources, surprisingly the highest being yellow bell peppers, but also from the obvious sources such as oranges and other citrus fruits.
If you are concerned you are not getting enough vitamin C in your diet, supplements are available in store. Please pop in and have a chat if you would like any further advice or guidance.