10X Health Vitamin C for a Healthy Immune System

Introducing ascorbic acid, also known as vitamin C – a water-soluble vitamin that is found in many fruits and vegetables, as well as in dietary supplements. This essential nutrient is required for many important functions in the body, including collagen synthesis, immune system function, and wound healing. Ascorbic acid is commonly used as a dietary supplement to support overall health and wellness, providing a range of benefits to help you feel your best.

Vitamin C's Role in the Body

Source: WebMD

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is necessary for the growth, development and repair of all body tissues. It's involved in many body functions, including formation of collagen, absorption of iron, the proper functioning of the immune system, wound healing, and the maintenance of cartilage, bones, and teeth.

Vitamin C is one of many antioxidants that can protect against damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals, as well as toxic chemicals and pollutants like cigarette smoke. Free radicals can build up and contribute to the development of health conditions such as cancer, heart disease, and arthritis.

The body doesn't store vitamin C, so overdose is not a concern. But it's still important not to exceed the safe upper limit of 2,000 milligrams a day to avoid stomach upset and diarrhea.

Vitamin C is one of the “water-soluble” vitamins. Because your body doesn’t store them, you need to keep them in your diet all the time to maintain healthy levels. Eat vitamin-C-rich fruits and vegetables raw, or cook them with minimal water so you don't lose some of the water-soluble vitamin in the cooking water.

Vitamin C is easily absorbed both in food and in pill form, and it can enhance the absorption of iron when the two are eaten together.

The Health Benefits of Vitamin C

Source: WebMD

No one vitamin can override serious health problems. They often work together – and other lifestyle habits – like getting enough sleep and exercise, and not smoking – are key. That said, research shows that vitamin C may offer health benefits in these areas:

• Stress 

A deficiency in vitamin C is associated with many stress related disease. It is the first nutrient to be depleted in people who drink too much alcohol, smoke, or have obesity. And because vitamin C is one of the nutrients sensitive to stress, Moyad says maintaining levels of vitamin C can be an ideal marker for overall health.

• Colds

When it comes to the common cold, vitamin C is not a cure, but some studies show that it may help prevent more serious complications. "There is good evidence taking vitamin C for colds and flu can reduce the risk of developing further complications, such as pneumonia and lung infections," says Moyad.

• Stroke

Although research has been conflicting, one study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that those with the highest concentrations of vitamin C in their blood were associated with 42% lower stroke risk than those with the lowest concentrations. The reasons for this are not completely clear. But what is clear is that people who eat plenty of fruits and vegetables have higher blood levels of vitamin C.

• Skin Aging

Vitamin C affects cells on the inside and outside of the body and it’s antioxidant properties can be beneficial when it comes to aging. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition examined links between nutrient intakes and skin aging in 4,025 women aged 40-74. It found that higher vitamin C intakes were associated with a lower likelihood of a wrinkled appearance, dryness of the skin, and a better skin-aging appearance. In addition, topical treatments with Vitamin C have been shown in some studies to reduce wrinkles

Other studies have suggested that vitamin C may also play a role in:

• Improving macular degeneration

• Reducing inflammation

• Lowering the risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease

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