One of the vitamins that cannot be produced by the body is vitamin C. It is an essential vitamin that has been linked to numerous health benefits. It is mainly found in many fruits and vegetables that are water-soluble such as oranges, kiwi, bell peppers, kale, and so on. Many people have been advised to take vitamin C supplements or to increase their intake of this vitamin, but not many know of its never-ending benefits. Here are some health benefits of vitamin C for your loved ones and you, and why they should ensure their intake of it.
Boosts the Immune System
It is no secret that the immune system weakens over time. Ensuring that your intake of vitamin C is sufficient is important to protect all of the body’s cells from the free radicals of the outside world. Vitamin C promotes white blood cell production which helps to ensure that the immune system is strong enough to fight off infections and viruses. It also helps these cells to work more efficiently and strengthens the skin’s barriers due to its antioxidant properties.
Helps in Collagen Production
Vitamin C also helps in the production of collagen in the body. Collagen is an important component of fibrous tissues such as the skin, tendons, and many more. As with many other bodily functions, one’s collagen production will start to slow down with age, and consuming vitamin C during one’s mature years will ensure that collagen will still be produced. Collagen is also known to aid in the process of wound healing and can shorten the recovery times of certain health conditions. It can also improve the look of one’s skin, making it look more radiant, firm, and younger. Who does not want to look younger than we actually are, right?
Keeps the Heart Healthy
Vitamin C also helps to reduce the chances of getting cardiovascular diseases, which is one of the leading causes of death today. Many factors play a part in increasing the risks of heart disease such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Studies have also shown that consuming enough food with vitamin C can reduce the chances of heart disease by up to 25%. Vitamin C helps to ensure the blood vessels are dilated and relaxed, allowing for blood to flow more easily to the other parts of the body. This helps to reduce blood pressure levels and make them easier to manage.
Relieves Effects of Chronic Health Conditions
Vitamin C can also help to relieve the effects that come with chronic health conditions such as asthma and sinusitis. It can also lower the risks of cataracts by boosting the vitamin levels in the eye fluid, increasing one’s protection. Vitamin C has bioflavonoids that help to shrink the swelling and inflammation of one’s sinus membrane, decreasing vascular permeability. Also, with the intake of vitamin C, the oxidative stress on airways tissues are reduced, helping to decrease one’s hypersensitivity to common triggers of asthma.
