Vitamin C

Vitamin C FAQs

What are the health benefits of vitamin C?

Vitamin C is a vital nutrient that plays numerous roles in maintaining our overall health. It's a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the body from free radical damage. It also aids in collagen production, which supports healthy skin, bones, and blood vessels. Vitamin C is well-known for its antioxidant properties and supporting healthy immune system function.

What are the types of vitamin C?

Vitamin C is available in a few forms. Ascorbic acid, the traditional vitamin C form, is water-soluble and can be easily absorbed by the body. Sodium ascorbate is a less acidic version suitable for those with sensitive stomachs. Calcium ascorbate offers an added benefit of calcium for bone health along with vitamin C.

What is the recommended dose of vitamin C?

Generally, for adults, the daily intake suggested by health experts is between 65 to 90 mg daily, with an upper limit of 2,000 mg. This dosage may increase for individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

What is the history of vitamin C?

Vitamin C’s discovery dates back to ancient times. Sailors in the 16th century were among the first to discover its benefits when they found that consuming citrus fruits prevented vitamin C deficiency. However, it wasn't until the early 20th century that Hungarian biochemist Albert Szent-Györgyi isolated the compound and identified it as an essential nutrient for human health. This discovery revolutionized our understanding of nutrition and underscored the importance of incorporating vitamin-rich foods into our diets.

What are the signs of vitamin C deficiency?

Vitamin C deficiency, although rare today world, can still occur and it’s essential to recognize its signs for early intervention. The initial symptoms may be subtle but if left unchecked, they could lead to serious health issues. These indicators include fatigue and weakness, often accompanied by unexplained weight loss. You might also notice frequent bruising or slow wound healing as vitamin C plays a vital role in collagen production, necessary for skin repair. Bleeding gums and swollen joints are other telltale signs due to impaired collagen synthesis. Further, persistent anemia despite adequate iron intake could signal this deficiency since vitamin C aids in iron absorption.

Which foods contain vitamin C?

Vitamin C is most commonly found in fruits and vegetables, particularly citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes. Beyond the citrus family, other rich sources of vitamin C include strawberries, kiwi, bell peppers, kale, parsley, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, watercress, and cauliflower. Additionally, certain fortified foods such as cereals can also provide this essential vitamin.