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.

Posted on September 5th, 2007 by admin
Filed under: Vitamin C