6 Benefits of Vitamin C

As a water-soluble vitamins, vitamin C has an important role in warding off many diseases. Vitamin C or ascorbic acid, commonly known by this has a significant role in the formation of collagen which helps boost the immune system and helps absorption of iron.

In fact, some studies show the benefits of vitamin C in lowering cholesterol levels and produce certain chemicals in the brain. In addition, the high content of antioxidants in vitamin C also can wipe free radicals that damage cells in the body.

Of the many benefits that have been described, it turns out there are many more benefits of vitamin C that have not been revealed, as quoted Besthealthmag following:

1. Preventing a stroke

There is plenty of evidence that diets high in antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables help ward off cardiovascular disease. However, several important studies showed that those with the highest levels of vitamin C in their bodies are at lowest risk for suffering a stroke (particularly in women).

2. Against cancer

Several studies have shown that some women who mengasup much vitamin C from foods such as fruits or vegetables (not supplements), has a lower risk of breast cancer. In fact, some research indicates vitamin C as toxic to certain cancer cells.

3. Improve mood

Has always been known that vitamin C deficiency can lead to psychological changes. Recently, researchers from McGill University shows that vitamin C supplementation (500 mg twice daily) for hospitalized patients who are deficient in vitamin C, significantly help to improve their mood.

4. Treating vaginal infections (BV)

Vaginal infections are the most common cause of vaginal discharge and usually cause odor, which affects up to 30 percent of pregnant women and a tenth of non-pregnant women. Two recent studies have shown that administration of vitamin C tablets for vaginal (250 mg for six days) to treat bacterial vaginosis (BV) by lowering the pH of the vagina and restore to its original state.

5. Improve the skin

Vitamin C is an antioxidant skin were most needed, where it helps neutralize free radicals that accumulate due to sun exposure and age. "Giving vitamin C in combination with other materials, repair some of the signs of aging including fine lines, uneven pigmentation, skin tone and texture," said Dr. Mariusz Sapijaszko, medical director of Youthful Image Cosmetic Surgery Clinic and a professor of dermatology at University of Alberta.

6. How many doses are needed?

Figures recommended intake of vitamin C is actually still being debated and vary in each country. World Health Organization (WHO) for example, specify only 45 mg a day, the Food Standards Agency in the UK by 40 mg per day, and the National Academy of Sciences in the United States between 60-95 mg per day. In the U.S., the maximum amount of intake in laboratory conditions is 2,000 milligrams per day.

The best source of vitamin C from fresh fruit, vegetables and juices. Half a cup (125 ml) orange juice contains about 50 mg of vitamin C. In addition to oranges, you can get other sources of vitamin C from kiwi, strawberries, peppers and brassica vegetables such as broccoli and cabbage.