What’s the Deal with Vitamin C?
Vitamin C is an essential vitamin that aids enzyme function. It also acts as an antioxidant; you’ve definitely heard that term before when discussing how to get antioxidants from diet and supplements. What does it mean? Essentially, antioxidants combat free radicals, which can harm cells in our bodies.
The weird thing is that, while vitamin C is an antioxidant, in some circumstances involving metals, it can also induce “oxidative damage.” The actual reasons why it behaves differently in different conditions is a complex science!
Some fascinating research1: Scientists tried extremely high doses of intravenous (IV) vitamin C, which was administered straight into the patients’ circulation, on cancer cells generated in the laboratory. Surprisingly, scientists discovered that it effectively eliminated a large number of cancer cells! They believe it was causing oxidative damage. However, many more clinical trials are needed to determine if mega-doses of vitamin C will benefit or damage actual cancer patients.
Vitamin C has several names, including ascorbic acid2. In your brain, vitamin C is the primary water-soluble antioxidant. Getting enough of it protects your neurons, which are the particular cells that transmit impulses in your brain. If a person does not obtain enough vitamin C from food over time, neuronal damage can occur, potentially leading to disorders such as dementia. Thus, vitamin C supplementation may help prevent neurodegeneration.
Vitamin C also inhibits DNA mutations. And there is evidence that when vitamin C levels are extremely high, it briefly creates low levels of oxidative stress, activating the body’s DNA repair systems. However, taking too many vitamin C tablets is likely to trigger other types of cell harm. It’s all about balance!
The optimal daily intake of this nutrient is fully determined by your age, present health, family history, and other factors. The typical recommendation is 75-90 milligrams (mg) per day. High IV vitamin C doses appear to be safe, however taking more than 2,000 mg daily via supplements over time can cause stomach problems in some people.
Vitamin C provides numerous benefits, particularly in modest doses, but scientists are still striving to understand how it interacts in the human body. Moderation and balance are essential! Mega-doses administered in the vein can also help treat liver disorders, high blood pressure, and help some cancer patients recover more quickly.
There are many levels that indicate if you are deficient or receiving adequate amounts of vitamin C. Checking your levels tells you if you need to level up. Now, here’s an interesting fact: our bodies cannot produce vitamin C on their own. So getting enough through foods or supplements is critical.
Kiwi, red bell peppers, citrus fruits, broccoli and orange juice are excellent sources that can be easily incorporated into meals and smoothies. Use fresh or frozen vegetables, don’t overcook it, and consume it as soon as possible after preparation or purchase. Supplements are also useful if you are unable to obtain enough food sources.
Filling your plate with vitamin C-rich foods is a pleasant approach to energize your body. This nutrient boosts immunity, prevents disease, relieves health problems, improves thinking, and provides energy. It’s time to update your diet with this all-star super food! And most importantly, it protects your skin. For example, vitamin C lotions protect your skin from UV damage. Stock up for the summer!
Wait, there is more! Vitamin C is essential for the production of collagen, which maintains your skin looking great and your bones and blood vessels in good working order. It also aids in nutrient absorption, allowing your body to correctly use iron, folate, and amino acids from your food.
Demonstrate your appreciation for this nutrient by consuming plenty of C-rich meals every day!
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