Vitamin C is an essential water soluble vitamin. It has countless benefits to health and its deficiency may result in diseases such as scurvy. Vitamin C aids in many biological functions, including synthesis of collagen, healing of wounds, as well as the repair and maintenance of cartilage, bones, and teeth.
However, the inclusion of anything to one’s diet should not be done without speaking to a professional. Therefore, for complete information on how you should incorporate Vitamin C in your diet, book an appointment with the top nutritionist in Karachi or your area of residence.
Below are 5 health benefits of vitamin C:
Reduces risk of chronic diseases
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can strengthen the natural defenses of the body and thus boost the immune system. Antioxidants strengthen the immunity of humans by protecting cells from harmful molecules called free radicals. Accumulation of free radicals can promote a state known as oxidative stress, which has been associated with many chronic diseases. Studies have shown that the consumption of vitamin C can increase the blood antioxidant levels by up to 30%. This helps the body’s natural defenses fight inflammation.
Reduces blood uric acid levels and helps prevent gout attacks
Gout is an incredibly painful type of arthritis. It involves the inflammation of the joints, especially those of the big toes. People with gout experience swelling as well as sudden, severe attacks of pain. Gout symptoms appear when there is too much uric acid in the blood. Uric acid is a waste product produced by the body. At high levels, it may crystallize and deposit in the joints.
Research has shown that foods and supplements rich in vitamin C can help in reducing uric acid in the blood. As a result, it can protect against gout attacks.
Helps prevent iron deficiency
Iron is an important nutrient with a variety of functions in the body. It is necessary for making red blood cells and transporting oxygen throughout the body.
Vitamin C can help improve the absorption of iron from the diet as it assists in converting poorly absorbed iron, such as plant-based sources of iron, into a form that is easier to absorb. In turn, vitamin C may help reduce the risk of anemia among people prone to iron deficiency. Consuming foods rich in vitamin C or taking vitamin C supplements can help improve your blood iron levels.
Lowers risk of heart disease
Vitamin C complements can help in reducing the risk factors of heart diseases including high blood levels of LDL (bad cholesterol) and triglycerides. This in turn, may reduce chances of getting a heart disease.
May help manage high blood pressure
Research suggests that vitamin C may help lower blood pressure in both healthy individuals as well as those with high blood pressure.
This article lists down only 5 health benefits of vitamin C. However, it also contains countless other advantages for human health. In order to get complete information of the pros and cons of the inclusion of vitamin c to your diet, please consult a top nutritionist in Lahore or your city.