Vitamin C, also known as “ascorbic acid”, may be one of the most popular and safest antioxidants out there.
Commonly taken during cold and flu season, this powerful supplement can help you recover from anything from a minor cold to depression.
The human body doesn’t have the ability to create its own Vitamin C, therefore it needs to be consumed through food and other supplements. As well, since it is water soluble, it doesn’t stick around very long in our bodies. The body absorbs what it needs at the time, and the rest is disposed of. So it is important to have a regular intake of this vital nutrient.
This essential vitamin helps to boost your immune system and can decrease the severity and duration of colds. It protects against free radical damage and aging caused by toxins and pollutants in our environment. It aids in the development of collagen and important structural component of bones, tendons and ligaments. It also improves absorption of vital minerals such as iron.
Vitamin C may reduce the toxicity of heavy metals like lead, mercury and arsenic. It assists adrenal and thyroid functions. It also plays an important role in the metabolism of nutrients and may even help with weight loss.
There has been a keen interest in the use of this antioxidant to prevent diabetics as it assists in regulating blood sugar levels. It has also been found to help reduce the development and/or severity of neurological disorders.
People with a routinely higher intake of vitamin C typically have lower incidence of diseases.
Other studies have shown that daily supplementation of Vitamin C can reduce occurrence of asthma, stomach cancer, high blood pressure, gout, hashimotos, lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
Probably the most common known source of Vitamin C is citrus fruit, such as oranges, lemons and limes, but these are not the only ones. You can find it in other fruits and vegetables such as: papaya, strawberries, kiwifruit, cantaloupe, raspberries, tomatoes, broccoli, bell peppers and brussels sprouts.
Fermented foods, like cultured vegetables, especially those made with cabbage, kale and collards, are incredible sources of Vitamins C. In fact, cultured vegetables help you get the most out of the vitamin C you consume.
Some herbs and spices can also be very helpful in boosting your Vitamin C intake. One of them being parsley, which can provide you with over half of the recommended daily amount.
The dosage recommended is 1000 mg a day. At the first sign of cold or flu, one can follow a Vitamin C protocol – by taking at least 8g ( 8000mg ) of Vitamin C every 20 min for 3-4 hours until bowel tolerance – according to ” Vitamin C foundation” If the symptoms recur, continue smaller dosages of 2-4 grams every 4-6 hours for ten days to prevent occurrence.
Vitamin C is an essential and is highly recommended that you get a good supply of it on a daily basis as part of overall healthy living.
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