During fall and winter, Vitamin C is one of my top picks for keeping the family happy and healthy. We use it on a regular basis and to help ward off sniffles.
A lot of claims have been made for it in the past few years, not the least of which was Dr. Linus Pauling's claims for its ability to prevent and lessen the duration and intensity of the common cold when taken in large doses.
Vitamin C, like most other vitamins and mineral supplements primarily helps the body do its job effectively. Deficiencies of vitamin C can predispose the body to certain illness, and proper intake either through daily diet or vitamin supplementation can help prevent certain conditions and illnesses. In fact, the recommended dietary amount of vitamin C was found to me much lower than the body actually needs.
SOURCES
Vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin, and, as such, is not stored in the body. This means it must be regularly replaced by diet and/or supplementation. The most commonly recognized sources of vitamin C are citrus and other fruits. Another source of Vitamin C is in supplementation form. We have several brands at the store and can find one to fit your needs!
AFFECTS
Vitamin C is a nutrient valuable for tissue growth, protection of cell membranes from toxic wastes, wound healing, and, as mentioned, support of the immune system. It supports the growth of collagen and cartilage, protecting in this way against many of the effects of aging.
As an antioxidant, vitamin C helps combat free radicals, and it may help with cancer, high cholesterol, cataracts, diabetes, allergies, asthma, and periodontal disease.
The effectiveness of vitamin C is believed to be increased when taken with vitamin E.
DEFICIENCIES
The most well-known result of a vitamin C deficiency is scurvy, a condition characterized by weakness, anemia, gum disease, and skin lesions. Fortunately, scurvy is very rare in our modern society although still found to a greater degree in areas of poor nutrition.
Frequent infections, severe colds, nose bleeds, tiredness, and painful joints may also indicate a deficiency. In order to achieve optimal health, supplementation is recommended.
Come to Natural Choices Health Food Store in New Lenox to find the best Vitamin C supplementation for you or your family today!
Vitamin C: Is Supplementation Necessary for Optimal Health?