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Ascorbic acid is the chemical name for pure Vitamin C. Vitamin C is a
water-soluble, antioxidant vitamin. It is important in forming collagen, a
protein that gives structure to bones, cartilage, muscle, and blood vessels.
Vitamin C also aids in the absorption of iron, and helps maintain
capillaries, bones, and teeth. Vitamin C plays an essential role in your
body's immune system. It is found in every cell of our body and performs
various functions including:
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Aids in
neutralizing pollutants.
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Is
needed for antibody production.
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Has
anti-oxidant properties
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Has
natural antihistamine properties.
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Aids in
fighting off foreign invaders such as pathogens and free radicals.
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Helps
protect the fat-soluble vitamins A and E as well as fatty acids from
oxidation.
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Is vital
to the production of collagen, which is involved in the building and health
of cartilage,
joints, skin, and blood vessels.
Vitamin C is one of nature's most
powerful antioxidants, working to protect the body from harmful free radical
molecules. It's found in some concentration in fruits and vegetables, however
citrus fruits, strawberries, cantaloupe, tomatoes, broccoli, potatoes and leafy
greens are the best sources.
As a water-soluble vitamin, vitamin C is not stored in the body and must be
regularly replaced through diet or supplementation (the body cannot make it on
its own). Deficiency is rare, but smoking, stress and certain illnesses can
cause reduced levels. Supplementing with vitamin C may help strengthen the
immune system.
One study conducted on Vitamin C
at the Methodist Hospital in Brooklyn, New York, found significant reductions in
blood levels of histamine after people took 1,000 milligrams of Vitamin C for
three consecutive days. An Italian study found that people with hay fever, who
had taken 2,000 milligrams of Vitamin C daily, were better able to maintain the
volume of air they could exhale. Vitamin C may also help reduce some of the
inflammation associated with chronic allergies, according to other studies.
Studies have found that Vitamin C may:
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Maintains healthy bones, teeth and
gums.
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Enhances immune system function.
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Protects against cellular damage.
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Help prevent periodontal disease.
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Aids in connective tissue
formation.
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Aid in healing wounds
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Combat inflammation and pain
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Aid iron absorption
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Break down histamine
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Offer potent antioxidant
protection
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Powerful antioxidant protection.
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