The Extraordinary Benefits of Vitamin C
By Emily Lindholm
Vitamin C is one of the most famous of vitamins, meaning that everyone knows they need Vitamin C. Growing up, most likely your parents gave you Vitamin C supplements in the form of gummies, chewables, or fizzy drinks. We were all told it kept us from getting sick. Well, that's certainly right. Vitamin C supports immune function. However, that is not all! Let's dive into all the reasons why we should be getting enough Vitamin C and the ways to get it.
Vitamin C Is a Powerful Antioxidant
Vitamin C may reduce our risk of chronic disease, as it is a powerful antioxidant that can strengthen our body's defenses. When our body has accumulated enough free radicals, it may go into a state of oxidative stress. Vitamin C has the power to lower this oxidative stress and fight off those free radicals.
Vitamin C May Help With Blood Pressure
High blood pressure affects 1/3 of American adults. Adults with high blood pressure are at much higher risk for heart disease. Yet studies have shown that Vitamin C can help to regulate blood pressure. Therefore, Vitamin C may help support a healthy heart and help prevent heart disease. It can also help lower cholesterol levels.
Helps To Prevent Anemia
Everyone needs a good amount of iron in their body, and an iron deficiency can lead to anemia. Vitamin C helps with the absorption of iron, and it can even help convert iron that has been poorly absorbed. First, make sure that you are getting a sufficient amount of iron in your diet, and help your body support it with Vitamin C. This is especially important for vegetarians because plant-based iron is more difficult to absorb.
Protects Your Brain as You Age
Studies have shown that people with dementia have lower levels of Vitamin C. Vitamin C supports the brain as we age because it lifts the oxidative stress that can contribute to inflammation surrounding the central nervous system. Lower levels of inflammation near the brain, spine, and nerves will help support our thinking as we age, and Vitamin C is highly effective at reducing this inflammation.
Ways to Get Vitamin C
There are many ways to get Vitamin C into your diet. Eating foods high in Vitamin C and taking a Vitamin C supplement in addition is recommended. Foods high in Vitamin C include:
- Citrus fruit, such as oranges
- Strawberries
- Broccoli
- Potatoes
- Brussels sprouts
- Peppers
Make sure you are supplementing with Vitamin C at the least, and having these foods in your diet is extremely beneficial.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Santa Rosa, Calif.