Your body cannot produce vitamin C so you need to consume it on a regular basis. It is a water-soluble vitamin found in vegetables and fruits like spinach, kale, broccoli, kiwi, bell peppers, oranges, strawberries, etc. Although your vitamin C requirement should be met by consuming vitamin C rich foods there are certain benefits associated with taking a vitamin C supplement that include :
• It helps to reduce the risk of chronic diseases: It is a very powerful antioxidant that helps to strengthen the natural defence system of our body which fights inflammation and reduces the risk of diseases.
• It helps to manage high blood pressure: Vitamin C helps to relax the blood vessels and lower blood pressure.
• It helps to lower the risk of heart disease: Vitamin C supplements help reduce bad cholesterol levels (LDL) and blood triglyceride levels which are a risk factor for heart diseases.
• It helps to reduce blood uric acid levels: People who consume vitamin C have lower levels of uric acid in the blood.
• It helps to prevent iron deficiency: Vitamin C helps to improve the absorption of iron from your diet and helps to reduce the risk of anaemia. If a person has low iron levels then it is important to consume vitamin C rich foods or supplements to improve your iron levels.
• Boost immunity: Vitamin C helps inefficient functioning and production of white blood cells like phagocytes and lymphocytes that protect us from infections. It is also a very important part of our skin’s defence system as it helps the wounds to heal faster.
• It has a protective effect on your memory: Inflammation and oxidative stress near the nerves, spine and brain can increase the risk of dementia. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant which has a protective effect on memory and thinking. So vitamin C protects you from dementia and helps to keep up with the health of your nervous system.
If you struggle to get enough vitamin C from your diet then you should add a vitamin C supplement to boost your intake.