The human body is dependent on a range of vitamins and minerals. One of these is vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid. It has an essential role to play but can be harmful when consumed to excess. You need to understand vitamin C to make informed decisions about your diet, so let’s look at it in more detail.
Why do you need vitamin C?
Vitamin C plays several roles in the body. It helps the immune system to function, protecting us from disease. It is used in wound healing, where it helps repair damage to the skin. It is also important for the health of bones, cartilage, and blood vessels.
What happens if you don’t consume enough vitamin C?
Scurvy is the most extreme form of a vitamin C deficiency. It is often associated with sailors, who historically would have had inadequate access to fresh fruit and vegetables whilst at sea. Scurvy causes fatigue, weakness, irritability, depression, bruising, muscle and joint pain, leg pain, red or blue spots on your feet and legs, bleeding gums, and sometimes tooth loss.
Where can you find vitamin C?
Most people receive the vitamin C they need from their diet, particularly citrus fruit such as oranges and lemons. Other foods that include high levels of vitamin C include berries, peppers, broccoli, potatoes, and brussels sprouts. This may be insufficient for some people, who may require supplements from companies such as www.vitortho.co.uk/supplements. This should be discussed with a doctor first.
How much vitamin C do you need?
Appropriate levels of vitamin C depend on your age and other health factors. For an average adult, the recommended daily amount is 40g.
Can you take too much vitamin C?
Excess vitamin C can cause health problems such as diarrhoea, stomach pains, and flatulence. This is why it is important to consult a doctor before taking vitamin C supplements.
Vitamin C in the recommended amounts is essential, but this should be part of a balanced diet. You also need adequate amounts of other nutrients to maintain good health.