What happens due to deficiency of Vitamin C in the body? How important is this for us?

The Importance of Vitamin C and Its Sources

Vitamin C is a nutrient that plays a critical role in many metabolic reactions in the body. Studies have indicated that intakes at or above the RDA are protective against certain disease states, but higher levels have not been shown to be beneficial to healthy people. Vitamin C is also a tissue-damaging pro-oxidant and in excess amounts can cause digestive upset and kidney stones. The following article discusses the importance of Vitamin C and its sources.

Importance of Vitamin C

The importance of Vitamin C in the human body cannot be overstated. It is a powerful antioxidant and plays an essential role in our body’s immune system. Antioxidants protect our cells from damage and are known to lower the risk of many chronic diseases. Vitamin C boosts the level of antioxidants in the blood and can also be helpful in fighting off infections. In addition, it supports the immune system and reduces inflammation. Despite the fact that Vitamin C is not a necessary part of our daily diet, it can certainly benefit our health..

Several papers have been published on the importance of Vitamin C. Research from the 1970s has shown that vitamin C can help protect against colds and other viral infections. In addition, it can improve your immune system and can be a great winter cure for seasonal infections. But what can it do for you? A high-dose of Vitamin C may make you feel sick and lead to diarrhea, upset stomach, and increased acidity. That’s why taking Vitamin C is so important for your immune system.

Sources of Vitamin C

Consumption of fruit and vegetables is correlated with blood concentrations of vitamin C. One recent study in the EPIC-Norfolk population found that the intake of vitamin C in this study reduced the incidence of cardiovascular events in this high-risk population. However, the association between vitamin C and mortality is not clear. While vitamin C is known to improve cardiovascular health, it is difficult to separate its role from other nutrients in fruits and vegetables. Bananas are an excellent source of vitamin C, as they also contain large amounts of potassium, an essential nutrient for blood pressure regulation. Elevated blood pressure has been linked with an increased risk of cardiovascular events, including stroke.

The benefits of vitamin C are not just limited to fighting infections but also include maintaining a healthy immune system. It also increases the absorption of nonheme iron, which is found in plant-based foods. A lack of vitamin C in the body can lead to a disease called scurvy, which is characterized by fatigue, capillary fragility, and widespread connective tissue weakness. While it’s rare to develop scurvy in modern times, vitamin C can help prevent and treat a variety of ailments.

What happens in a deficiency of Vitamin C?

• A deficiency in Vitamin C can lead to a variety of symptoms, including dry skin, wrinkles, and hair loss.
• It can also contribute to an increased risk of developing scurvy, an illness characterized by bleeding gums and loose teeth.
• Deficient levels of Vitamin C can also lead to bruising and headaches, and can even lead to kidney stones. Fortunately, a deficiency in Vitamin C is rare in developed countries, where fresh fruits and vegetables are readily available.
• A deficiency in Vitamin C is most often caused by inadequate dietary intake of fruits and vegetables, particularly in developing countries.

Besides poor diet, environmental factors can also influence a person’s vitamin C level. Smoking, pollution, and chronic disease can increase the body’s oxidative stress levels. Vitamin C is important for eye health, as it protects the cornea and lens. A deficiency in Vitamin C can impair corneal wound healing, leading to keratitis.