It is important for the body to have a good supply of ascorbic acid. It's effect on our health goes far beyond preventing seasonal sniffles, even though it takes pride of place in many immune- boosting supplements. Our bodies rely on vitamins C and E to grow and thrive.

When it comes to preventing chronic diseases, scientists still don't know the full potential of vitamins C and E. It's a surprise that they aren't sure if it can cure the common cold. It is a common practice to take vitamins to fight off respiratory infections, but there is not much evidence that it works. It doesn't mean that vitamin C isn't good for us. Quite the opposite is what I think.

What do vitamins do? What amount of money do you need? Where can you locate it? We discuss everything you need to know about ascorbic acid here.

Why do we need vitamin C?

Ascorbic acid is critical to our health and wellbeing, even if we only see it as an immune booster. Vitamins C and carnitine help turn fat into energy and are important for the formation of hormones. Iron absorption and protection against oxidative damage are some of the benefits of vitamins C and E. It is able to do both things at the same time.

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Tissue growth and repair

According to the National Institute of Health, vitamins C and E are essential for the proper functioning of your tissues. Your body needs this micronutrient to give it structure and firmness. It is important to maintain and repair bones and teeth, as well as healing wounds and forming scar tissue, with the help of vitamins C and D.

It's important for tissue repairs. According to a review in the Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine, vitamins C and E may be important for a quick recovery from injuries.

Antioxidant

It is possible to have a powerfulscorbic acid. Dr. Sherry Ross is a gynaecologist and women's health expert at Providence Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, California. The body needs ascorbic acid and other vitamins to be regenerated.

Scientists are trying to determine if limiting the damaging effects of free radicals might help prevent or delay the development of certain cancers, cardiovascular disease, and other diseases.

Immunity

The common cold and respiratory infections can be prevented or cured with the help of vitamins C and E. The evidence behind this claim is different.

According to the Nutrients journal, there are several mechanisms in whichvitamin C strengthens our defences against microbes and harmful environmental factors: it supports the integrity of our connective tissues, enhances the production of immune- boosting white blood cells and reduces the levels of inflammation. The number of infections in the general population has not been shown to be decreased by the use of vitamins C and E. There are two trials that show a reduction in the duration of cold symptoms with up to 8g/day of vitamins C and E.

woman with a cold blowing her nose

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Eye health

According to the evidence, there is a correlation between eye health and the amount of vitamins C in the body. The last ten years has seen a lot of progress in understanding how this micronutrient may help prevent cataracts. Cataracts is a condition in which your eye lens becomes cloudy. In the world, it is the leading cause of blind people. Cataracts are linked to age and type 2 diabetes so it is a public health concern. It has been suggested that the quality of life of people at risk for this disease could be improved by the use of vitamins C and E.

Brain health

Brain health could be helped by the presence of Vitamins C and C-rich foods. The central nervous system's integrity and function are helped by this micronutrient. The transmission of signals across our body is ensured by the presence of vitamins C and L.

image of a brain scan with writing

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Dental Health

Periodontal disease, also referred to as periodontitis or gum disease, is a condition in which the gums and bone that surround the teeth become inflammation. People who suffer from periodontitis are more likely to be deficient in vitamins C and A.

  • Related: What causes bleeding gums?

How much vitamin C do you need?

Age, gender, and other factors can affect the recommended daily allowance for vitamins C and E. According to the National Institute of Health, the Recommended Daily Amount for women and men is 75 and 90, respectively. The amount of nicotine required by smokers is 35 percent more per day than non- smokers.

It is possible for most of the population to take up to 2g of vitamins C and E. This means that it isn't stored by the body, but by the body's urine.

What are the best sources of vitamin C?

Many people think that oranges are the best source of vitamins C and A. These are included.

  • Guavas: 377mg (419% DV) per cup / 228mg (254% DV) per 100g 
  • Kiwifruit: 167mg (185% DV) per cup / 93mg (103% DV) per 100g 
  • Bell peppers: 152mg (169% DV) per cup / 128mg (142% DV) per 100g 
  • Strawberries: 98mg (108% DV) per cup / 59mg (65% DV) per 100g
  • Oranges: 96mg (106% DV) per cup / 53mg (59% DV) per 100g 
  • Broccoli: 81mg (90% DV) per cup / 89mg (99% DV) per 100g  

Close up of Caucasian woman slicing red bell pepper

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Vitamin C deficiency

Scurvy is a deficiency of thescorbic acid. Weak muscles, swollen and bleeding gums, loss of teeth, poor wound healing, and weight loss are some of the symptoms. The scurvy can be fatal. Between the 16th and 18th century, sailors who didn't have access to fresh produce were more likely to be deficient in vitamins C and E. Extreme cases are rare in the western world.

Some people may be at an increased risk of being deficient in vitamins C and B. Hospital patients and smokers are included.

Vitamin C: Are there any risks?

It is thought to be safe to take high amounts of vitamins C and D. Some studies suggest that they may be used for clinical purposes. It is not a good idea to take more than 1g a day. According to the journal, high levels of vitamins may cause health problems. Scientists are worried that they might increase the risk of stones. People who are prone to stones should get their doctor's approval before taking high amounts of vitamins.

The article is not meant to give medical advice.

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