Vitamin C
Vitamin C plays important role in proper functioning of different parts of the human body. Vitamin C is water soluble and cannot be stored in the body. This water soluble vitamin c should be replaced each and every day as it is excreted from the body regularly. If it is not replaced regularly there is a high chance of vitamin c deficiency in our body.
Vitamin C is also known as ascorbic Acid also an antioxidant which helps in protecting human body against pollutants. Vitamin C helps us to protect from infections and maintain healthy gums. It also strengthens many parts of human body such as muscles and Blood Vessels.
Vitamin C helps in synthesis of collagen, collagen is important component of ligaments, blood vessels, bones and tendons. It is found throughout the body; it is present in cartilage and connective tissues and is used to separate skeletal and smooth muscle cells.
Vitamin c is easily lost during food preparation, storage and cooking. In order to prevent vitamin c we need to take vegetables and fruits in raw form. You can boil steam or simmer foods in minimum water for shorter time. Cook Potatoes with out removing the skin. After cutting vegetables and fruits store them in airtight containers and do not refrigerate.
The effect of vitamin C is decreased by aspirin, tobacco, barbiturates, mineral oil, oral contraceptives, salicylates, sulfa drugs and tetracyclines. Vitamin C will decrease the effect of Anti-cholinergics, oral anticoagulants and copper.
Individuals who are likely to be vitamin C deficient are people suffering from AIDS, Alcoholism, Burns, Cancer, Prolonged Diarrhea, Prolonged Fever, Intestinal Diseases, Stomach ulcer, Tuberculosis, Smokers, Patients who undergo surgery.
Lack of vitamin C can lead to a condition called scurvy, which causes muscle weakness, swollen and bleeding gums, loss of teeth, and bleeding under the skin, as well as tiredness and depression. Vitamin C deficiency also causes wounds to heal slowly.
The symptoms of vitamin C deficiency include weight loss, irritability, fatigue, depression and weakness. Low levels of it cause gall bladder disease, atherosclerosis, hypertension, stroke and cancer.
High blood pressure is a major risk factor in cardiovascular disease. Vitamin C has been shown to lower blood pressure and lower the risk of acquiring cardiovascular disease.
Foods that are rich in Vitamin C are broccoli, strawberries, citrus fruits, green peppers, Brussels sprouts, honeydew, cantaloupe,
oranges, water melon, cabbage, cauli flower, papaya, cantaloupes, grapes, strawberries, kiwi, broccoli, mango, tomatoes, Brussels sprouts, acerola, kale leaves, and citrus juices.
Vitamin C is best effective when obtained naturally through citrus fruits and vegetables.