Vitamin C
Vitamin C, or L-ascorbic acid, is water-soluble, indicating that the body does not retain it. It is necessary to consume vitamin C fruits and other vitamin C foods. This vitamin is crucial to maintaining one’s health and ensuring that the body operates effectively.
“When I wake up in the morning, I like to refresh myself and put some tonic on – one with vitamin C – and then an oxygen cream with vitamins A, C, and E. That’s very important to me so that my skin will stay moisturized throughout the day.” – Melania Trump
Vitamin C has effective antioxidant properties that safeguard cells from free radical damage and nurture the growth and repair of skin, cartilage, bone, and teeth.
Vitamin C is important for various bodily functions, including:
Vitamin C-rich foods or supplements combined with iron may cause anaemia patients to produce more haemoglobin.
Research suggests that vitamin C may also shorten the duration of severe common cold symptoms. Many bodily functions require Vitamin C.
Ascorbic acid belongs to the monosaccharide family with a chemical formula C6H8O6. Its chemical structure consists of a five-membered lactone ring with multiple hydroxyl (-OH) groups, making it a water-soluble vitamin and a potent antioxidant.
C₆H₈O₆
176.12 g/mol
Hydroxyl (-OH), Lactone
A six-carbon compound with a fused lactone ring
This simplified structure shows the lactone ring with hydroxyl (-OH) groups, which contribute to its antioxidant properties and role in collagen synthesis, immune function, and iron absorption.
The primary cause of vitamin C deficiency is poor diet, but there are a number of other risk factors that have been found, such as smoking, pregnancy, low socioeconomic status, genetic predisposition, age, strenuous exercise, and clinical conditions linked to metabolic syndrome like diabetes, obesity, and hypertension. The few major vitamin C deficiency disease lists include:
Vitamin C aids in the absorption of iron from food. Without sufficient vitamin C, there is a risk of developing iron deficiency anaemia.
Vitamin C helps in collagen production, affecting skin and tissue repair.
Vitamin C helps white blood cells fight infections.
Vitamin C deficiency weakens bones and cartilage.
Vitamin C supplements are needed when the body is not getting enough vitamin C from the diet and needs an extra boost. Note: Vitamin C supplements should only be taken under the doctor’s guidance.
Here are the conditions under which vitamin C capsules may be necessary:
If an individual is prone to frequent respiratory infections, colds, or flu, then vitamin C capsules make the immune system strong and decrease the severity & duration of the disease.
Vitamin C prevents iron deficiency anaemia by facilitating iron absorption from plant-based foods. If you have low iron levels, take vitamin C supplements with meals containing iron for better absorption.
Essential for collagen production, vitamin C for skin helps with glowing skin, strong hair, and wound healing. If your skin looks dull, has acne scars, or heals slowly, a vitamin C capsule can help.
Vitamin C supplements are helpful for individuals suffering from persistent stress, anxiety, and exhaustion because they lower cortisol, the stress hormone, and increase energy.
Smoking and alcohol quickly reduce vitamin C levels, raising the risk of deficiency. Smokers require an additional vitamin C each day compared to non-smokers.
If you’re recovering from surgery, wounds, fractures, or burns, vitamin C speeds up healing by promoting tissue repair & reducing inflammation.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women need higher Vitamin C intake for the baby’s healthy growth. It also helps with iron absorption during pregnancy.
If you don’t eat enough fresh fruits & veggies, you may lack vitamin C. Supplements can help fill the gap.
Vitamin C capsules for heart health are crucial as they help control blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of heart disease & diabetes complications.
Vitamin C injections serve as an additional source of nutrition for individuals who do not receive sufficient vitamin C from their diet. People typically use these injections to boost their vitamin C levels when their food intake is inadequate. Additionally, vitamin C injections can help address certain health issues that arise due to a deficiency in vitamin C.
A medical practitioner typically administers vitamin C injections. It’s not advisable to self-administer at home.
Vitamin C serum is a powerful beauty product that has many benefits, such as offering sun protection, preventing premature ageing, balancing skin tone, enhancing collagen production, and preventing hyperpigmentation.
Vitamin C is important for collagen generation to promote tissue repair and wound healing. It facilitates the recovery process from cuts, burns, and surgical wounds.
Yes, vitamin C does break down and is heat-sensitive. It can be lost through boiling, frying, or cooking for long periods. To retain it, try steaming, roasting, or eating raw fruits and vegetables by properly washing them.
A Vitamin C moisturizer is a hydrating skincare product infused with Vitamin C and other nourishing ingredients to brighten skin, reduce signs of ageing, and protect against environmental damage while moisturizing the skin.
Vitamin C serum
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