Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that is necessary for the growth, development, and repair of all body tissues. Here are some of the benefits of vitamin C:
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Collagen production: Vitamin C is required for the biosynthesis of collagen, which is a fibrous protein in connective tissue that is weaved throughout various systems in the body, including the nervous, immune, bone, cartilage, blood, and others.
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Antioxidant: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can neutralize harmful free radicals, which are compounds formed when our bodies convert the food we eat into energy. Free radicals can build up and contribute to the development of health conditions such as cancer, heart disease, and arthritis.
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Immune system: Vitamin C is involved in many parts of the immune system. It helps encourage the production of white blood cells known as lymphocytes and phagocytes, which help protect the body against infection. It also helps these white blood cells function more effectively.
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Iron absorption: Vitamin C improves the absorption of non-heme iron, which is the type of iron found in plant foods such as leafy greens.
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Skin health: Vitamin C is necessary for the production of collagen, which is important for skin health. It also has antioxidant properties that can protect the skin from damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals.
Its important to note that the body doesnt store vitamin C, so it must be taken daily through food or supplements. The recommended daily intake of vitamin C for adults is 75-90 mg per day for women and men, respectively. While deficiency of vitamin C is relatively rare, it can lead to scurvy in extreme cases.
