Vitamin C has many great benefits for our bodies. Its greatest function is that it protects and strengthens our immune system. When we feel like we’re about to catch a cold, Vitamin C tablets or drinks are usually our go-to remedy.
Now that we’re in a global pandemic, it is everyone’s priority to protect their immune system, which makes Vitamin C intake a necessity. In this article, we are going to discuss the importance of Vitamin C and why we need it.
Why Do We Need Vitamin C?
Vitamin C, also known as Ascorbic Acid, is a water-soluble vitamin. It is not stored well in the body, so it must be taken daily through food or supplements. It can also be obtained intravenously or by injecting it through the vein\.
Vitamin C is relevant in controlling infections and healing wounds. It stimulates white blood cell activity in the body. It’s also essential in making collagen. It is a powerful antioxidant that neutralizes harmful free radicals, but excess intake can damage the cells and turn it into a pro-oxidant.
Vitamin C can improve non-heme iron absorption. It also helps in making several hormones and chemical messengers used in the brain and nerves. It is also proven to help fight chronic diseases, age-related vision diseases, and the common cold.
That being said, it is still important to follow recommended dosages regarding Vitamin C. Too much can create complications in the body, especially in those with pre-existing conditions.
Signs of Vitamin C Deficiency
Vitamin Deficiency is a condition that rarely occurs in developed countries but may occur with an unhealthy lifestyle and limited diet. If you get less than 10 mg daily for one month or longer, it may cause a cascade of issues. Here are the most common signs of deficiency:
- Loss of collagen
- Weakening of connective tissues (resulting in scurvy)
- Skin spots
- Swelling or bleeding of gums
- Loss of teeth
- Hair loss
- Delayed healing of skin wounds
- Fatigue, malaise
- Iron-Deficiency Anemia
How much Vitamin C Should I Take?
The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for male adults that are 19 years and older is 90 mg, while 70 mg for women. Women that are pregnant and lactating get a higher dose of 85 mg and 120 mg daily. Smokers are suggested to add 35 mg of Vitamin C beyond the RDA since smoking is proven to deplete Vitamin C levels in the body.
The Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) is the maximum daily intake that’s unlikely to cause harmful effects on your health. The UL is 2000 mg daily for Vitamin C, so taking beyond this amount may cause gastrointestinal distress and diarrhea.
What Destroys Vitamin C’s Efficacy?
Vitamin C is destroyed by heat and light, so high-heat cooking or prolonged cooking can easily break down the vitamin. The vitamin is water-soluble, so it can seep into cooking liquids and be lost if not eaten. To prevent this, quick-heating methods and using less water when cooking can preserve the vitamin.
Conclusion
Vitamin C is one of the essential vitamins in the body. Not only does this vitamin boost our health, but it also protects our immune system. Now that we are in a pandemic, we must do everything we can to safeguard our bodies. Consuming the right amount of Vitamin C can strengthen our body to fight against COVID-19 and other diseases.
We, at 123Immunity, are willing to help provide essential nutrients to support and strengthen your body’s immune system and help prevent Vitamin C deficiency. We provide the best vitamins for COVID-19, a virus that targets your immune system. Visit our webpage to strengthen your body against every disease out there.
