Vitamin C - What Does it Do and Why is it Important?

There is a lot of talk about vitamins, especially when the weather is cold and damp. Vitamin C is one of the most popular topics, as people take extra amounts of it in order to prevent or get over an illness.

No, C does not prevent or cure a cold, but it may help prevent complications from developing. This nutrient is one of the most studied of them all, and what is being found surprises many scientists. There are indications that it can prevent cardiovascular problems, improve the immune system, prevent some birth defects and some eye disorders. It might even help prevent your skin from wrinkling.

How much is enough? Some studies indicate that the current recommended daily allowance is far too low. 500 mgs may be the new recommendation rather than the current 75 to 90 mgs. It is unlikely that you can get that amount in your daily diet, so a supplement might be in order. Bear in mind that large amounts can cause stomach irritation, so you may have to try different brands to get one you can tolerate.

What happens if you don't get enough? While it is unlikely to be a problem if you eat a balanced diet, that has not always been the case. Sailers on long sea voyages used to develop scurvy, a deficiency disease caused by lack of vitamin C. In fact, the reason British sailers are called "Limeys" is because they started taking limes along on long voyages to prevent it.

Can you take to much? Yes, you can. Some of the symptoms are nausea and diarrhea, kidney stones and an irritated stomach lining. Feeling faint, dizziness and fatigue are also possible.

What foods have Vitamin C? As mentioned, limes and other citrus fruits can provide vitamin C, but there are others. Even broccoli and potatoes have vitamin C in them. Others that might surprise you are rose hips, brussels sprouts, peppers, tomatoes and green cabbage.

As you can tell, this vitamin is as important to your diet as all the attention it receives. It is known that less than twenty percent of us actually consume enough, either in our food or as supplements, so you may want to invest in a quality supplement.

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