Why is Vitamin C Important? by:Steve Parker
Vitamin C, also called ascorbic acid, maintains the ligaments
, tendons,
and other supportive tissue. It is found in fruits and in potatoes.
Because it's an antioxidant it helps regulate your blood cells, keeping
blood cells from becoming deformed from the toxics in the air, which in
some cases can cause cancer.
The best function of vitamin C is the formation of collagen, a protein
substance that keeps the cell together. Vitamin C enhances the
absorption of iron. It is needed for buoyant health, vitality and
endurance. It keeps your skin clear, with a fresh complexion and
healthy gums and teeth. It is very important for the functions of all
glands and organs. This vitamin maintains the bones and proper
functioning of the adrenal and thyroid glands. It promotes healing and
protects against all forms of stress - physical and mental.
So what happens if you don't take enough vitamin c? If you become
deficiency of vitamin C you will have soft gums, skin haemorrhages,
capillary weakness, deterioration in collagen, anaemia, and slow
healing of sores and wounds. You will see yourself aging faster,
thyroid insufficiency, and your resistance to all infections will be
very low. Its deficiency enhances the toxic effect of drugs and
environmental poisons. Mild deficiencies of vitamin C may appear in the
form of lassitude, fatigue, anorexia, muscular pain, and greater
susceptibility to infection. Long deficiency may cause scurvy, which is
very dangerous.
Scurvy is a disease that results from insufficient intake of vitamin C.
This can leads to formation of livid spots on the skin, soft spongy
gums and bleeding from mucous membranes. A quote from Enchanted
learning.com, "Many sailors on long trips got scurvy, which at first
debilitates and then kills the victim. When the cause of scurvy was
determined to be a dietary deficiency, limes and other foods high in
vitamin C were brought on long sea journeys, putting an end to the
problem of scurvy. Bringing limes aboard is why sailors used to be
called "limeys."
You can find vitamin c in fruits and vegetables. But most food fall
short or loose their source when it is cooked. To get the full benefits
you will have to eat fresh fruit and vegetables. Taking vitamin c
supplements is also another great way, taking a supplement can help you
get the require amount you need everyday.
About the author
Steve Parker a specialist in health and fitness.
Mr. Parker also is a freelance journalist and partner of
http://www.nutritionmountain.com, a website that offers dietary supplements.
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