A tall glass of freshly squeezed orange, first thing in the morning, can give you a wonderful spurt of energy. Ascorbic acid or vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin which can neither be produced nor be stored by the body.
Vitamin C is an important vitamin which is necessary for the normal functioning of the metabolic system. This vitamin also ensures healthy gums and a strong immune system. According to the FDA guidelines, the RDA of vitamin C, for a normal adult stands at about 60mg per day.
The body obtains vitamin C from the supplements that we take and from the food that we eat. Some of the dietary sources of vitamin C are citrus fruits (like oranges and lemons) papaya, tomatoes, mangoes, asparagus, sweet peppers, Brussels sprouts, cantaloupe and strawberries among others.
Vitamin C is an amazing vitamin which helps to keep us fit and strong. One of the most important functions of this water soluble vitamin is that it acts as a powerful antioxidant. The free radicals, which wreak havoc with the body cells, are destroyed by the antioxidants.
The body tissues remain strong because of a protein called collagen. The bones, cartilage, teeth and ligaments also contain collagen. For the proper production of collagen, vitamin C is extremely important.
To fight diseases effectively, we need a strong immune system. People are prone to illness and infections when the immune system becomes weak. Vitamin C boosts the immune system functioning. The white blood cells which attack bacterial and viral invasions require high levels of vitamin C to perform at optimal levels.
Doctors prescribe vitamin C supplements, to lessen the risk of pneumonia, common colds and lung infections from developing. Taking vitamin C rich food like lemons and oranges can protect the body from seasonal colds.
The bad cholesterol or LDL cholesterol levels in the body can be reduced by taking vitamin C rich foods. Vitamin C also helps to increase the good cholesterol or HDL cholesterol levels of the body. People suffering from high blood pressure should incorporate vitamin C rich foods into their daily diet to normalize blood pressure.
Excessive consumption of alcohol, certain medications like analgesics, anticoagulants and antidepressants, oral contraceptives can all hamper with the proper absorption of vitamin C.