Vitamin C - Ascorbic Acid

Vitamin C is a water soluble essential vitamin, the body does not manufacture this on its own and nor does it store it. It is critical for the growth and repair of tissues and to form collagen. Collagen is the protein that is used to make skin, scar tissue, tendons, ligaments and blood vessels. This vitamin is vital for the healing of wounds, and for the repair and maintenance of cartilage, bones and teeth.

Vitamin is an antioxidant, it blocks some of the damage caused by free radicals that trigger illnesses like cancer, hear disease and arthritis. We have to ensure that we consume plenty of Vitamin C containing food in our daily diet. Vitamin C deficiency occurs from a diet deficit in fresh fruits and vegetables. Smoking increases vitamin C requirement by 30%.

Vitamin C Deficiency Symptoms

Vitamin C deficiency can cause dry and splitting hair, gingivitis, bleeding gums, rough, dry and scaly skin, decreased wound-healing rate, easy bruising, nosebleeds, anemia, swollen and painful joints, inability to fight infection and possible weight gain as a result of sluggish metabolism. Extreme cases of vitamin C deficiency can cause Scurvy.

Vitamin C supplements are suggested in the treatment of Acne, Allergy, Anemia, Arthritis, Cholesterol, Cold, Depression , Diabetes, Endometriosis, Ear Infection, Fibromyalgia, Gingivitis, Obesity and Urinary Tract Infection

Vitamin C Sources

Vitamin C is found in many fresh vegetables and fruits, such as broccoli, green and red peppers, collard greens, brussel sprouts, cauliflower, lemon, cabbage, pineapples, strawberries, citrus fruits. .

Vitamin C Toxicity

Excessive amounts of Vitamin C causes diarrhea, which disappears when dosages are reduced.