Vitamin C, known primarily as a remedy for colds, plays a key role in our body. However, as it turns out, her abilities reach much further than we thought. It is worth taking a closer look at the extraordinary properties of this substance, which may amaze even those who consider themselves well familiar with the subject.
Basic properties of vitamin C
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is one of the most important substances for our health. Although the most recognizable of its function is to strengthen the immune system and combat colds, its effect on the body reaches much deeper. Here are some fascinating facts about vitamin C, which can change the way you look at this popular vitamin.
1. Antioxidant and protection against free radicals
Vitamin C is a strong antioxidant, which means that it helps fight free radicals in the body. Free radicals are dangerous particles that can damage cells and accelerate the aging process of the body. It works like a shield, neutralizing these harmful substances and helping to maintain cell health.
2. Supporting collagen production
Collagen is a key protein responsible for the elasticity of the skin, hair, blood vessels and joints. Vitamin C plays a key role in collagen production, supporting the maintenance of skin elasticity, improvement of hair structure and preventing musculoskeletal problems.
3. Participation in metabolic processes
Vitamin C participates in many metabolic processes, including the transformation of amino acids, folic acid synthesis and fatty acid metabolism. Its presence affects the effective use of nutrients by the body, which is crucial for maintaining the optimal functioning of all systems.
4. Better iron absorption
Vitamin C increases the absorption of iron from plants. It acts as a cofactor that makes it easier to transform iron into a form that the body absorbs more easily. This is especially important for people on a plant diet, where providing enough iron can be a challenge.
5. Cholesterol level regulation
Studies suggest that vitamin C can have a beneficial effect on cholesterol. It helps to control the amount of “bad” cholesterol (LDL) in the blood, which contributes to maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system.
6. The ability to regenerate Vitamin E
Vitamin C plays an important role in regeneration of another important vitamin – vitamin E. Vitamin E is also an antioxidant, and the cooperation of both vitamins increases their effectiveness in protecting cells against oxidative damage.
7. Benefits for the nervous system
The discovery that vitamin C plays a key role in protecting the nervous system, makes it an extremely important component of the diet. Her presence in the brain helps protect against neurodegenerative diseases, and regular consumption can support the maintenance of healthy functioning of the nervous system.
Discover new health horizons with vitamin C
Vitamin C is a real multitaser in the health world. Its various functions, from the support of the immune system, through maintaining healthy skin, to the protection of the nervous system, make it one of the most important components of the diet. That is why it is worth taking care of regularly supplying this vitamin through a balanced diet, supplements or fresh fruit and vegetables to enjoy the benefits it offers.
Discover the extraordinary power of vitamin C: more than just colds!
Many of us associate vitamin C mainly with the fight against infections and colds. However, recent studies have shown that it also has the ability to regulate stress -related physiological reactions. High doses of vitamin C can lower blood pressure and support psychotherapy for depression. It is worth mentioning research where students received vitamin C before the exam, and their level of anxiety fell significantly compared to the placebo group.
Fighting anxiety: Like vitamin C, it becomes an ally of your mind
Vitamin C shows the ability to support the fight against anxiety. Research conducted at high school students showed that regular consumption of vitamin C can significantly reduce the level of anxiety. This discovery can open new perspectives for mental therapy, where vitamin C can act as support.
Longevity with vitamin C: How to keep form at a later age
Japanese researchers conducted research on a group of women aged 75, analyzing the relationship between vitamin C and physical fitness. It turned out that women with a higher level of vitamin C showed better results, especially when it comes to the strength of the handshake or the ability to stand on one leg. This discovery suggests that vitamin C can play an important role in maintaining muscle mass, especially during menopause.
Vitamin C and Eye health: British researchers discovered by surprising
Research conducted by British scientists revealed an interesting relationship between vitamin C consumption and the risk of cataract. People who regularly consumed larger amounts of vitamin C had 33% less risk of developing cataracts. In addition, the lenses of these people were brighter than in people with lower consumption of vitamin C. This discovery can affect eye health and prevention of vision diseases.
Energetic impact: How vitamin C supports physical activity
It turns out that vitamin C can be a key motivating factor for physical activity, especially in men aged 18–35. Studies have shown that obese men with vitamin C deficiency who received supplementation practiced much more than those who took placebo. This discovery suggests that vitamin C can affect the amount of energy burned during training, which can be important for maintaining a healthy weight and physical condition.
Key molecule in the brain: protection of the nervous system by vitamin C
Vitamin C, known as an antioxidant, plays an important role in protecting the central nervous system. Her presence in large quantities in the brain helps in binding free radicals, thus protecting the nervous system. Deficiencies in vitamin C can be associated with the development of nervous system diseases, such as dementia, Alzheimer’s disease or Parkinson’s disease. This discovery emphasizes the importance of regular consumption of vitamin C for brain health and prevention of neurodegenerative diseases.
Bibliography:
GeneticDietary Factors Influencing The Progression of Nuclear Cataract – Ekaterina Yonova -Dinging et al., Ophthalmology Volume 123, Number 6, June 2016
Effects of Oral Vitamin C Supplementation on Anxiety in Students: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial -De Oliveira et al., Pakistanjournal of Biological Sciences 18: 11-18. 2015
Vitamin C Supplementation Slightly Improves Physical Activity Levelsreduces Cold Incidence in Men with Marginal Vitamin C Status: A Randomized Controlled Trial – Johnston cs et al., Nutrients. 2014 Jul 9; 6 (7): 2572-83.
A SIGNIFICANT REATIONSHIP BETWEEN PLASMA VITAMINA C CONCENTATIONPHYSICAL Performance Among Japanese Elderly Women – Saito K. et al., J Gerontol a Biol Sci Med Sci. 2012 Mar; 67 (3): 295-301
Old Things New View: Ascorbic Acid Protects the Brain In Neurodegenerative Disorders – Covarrrubias -Pinto et al., Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2015, 16, 28194–28217;
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