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The body needs nutrients so that it can thrive with its many biological processes. These nutrients are necessary for the normal growth and development of the body and to improve health and wellness. Nutrients are classified into macronutrients and micronutrients. Micronutrients are involved vitamins and minerals. In this article we will be discussing about a specific vitamin called vitamin C.
Vitamin C is soluble in water. It is required by the body for repair and growth of the cells of the body. It serves as a cofactor for certain body proteins which is needed for the production of cells for skin, tendons, ligaments and blood vessels. It is also necessary for wound repair, tissue healing and scar formation. In addition, vitamin C is also important to maintain the integrity and strength of cartilages, bones and teeth. Nevertheless, vitamin C also serves as a primary antioxidant in the body. It neutralizes harmful toxins so that cellular damage will be prevented. Toxins such as free radicals can cause damage to cells when accumulated in the body. If these harmful substances are neutralized, they are easily eliminated from the body. Vitamin C also has an anti – ageing property making the skin look healthy and glowing.
As mentioned above, vitamin C is water –soluble. Therefore, it cannot be stored inside the body and is readily excreted through the urine. In this connection, a constant supply of vitamin C must be available from the diet or supplements. Great sources of vitamin C include fruits such as orange, grapes, mango, pineapple, watermelon, cantaloupe, papaya and berries. Vegetables which are high in vitamin C are broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, spinach, tomatoes and other green leady vegetables. Many commercial food products nowadays are already fortifies with vitamin C. Check the label and be healthy!
Heat can easily destroy vitamin C. if foods rich in vitamin C are cooked for a long period of time, the vitamin C content of the food decrease significantly. Therefore, great sources of vitamin C are fresh fruits and vegetables.
Since vitamin C is readily excreted from the body and cooking processes can easily destroy vitamin C in the food, supplements are formulated to help supply the body with the necessary vitamin C the body requires. Supplements are available in tablets, capsule or liquid forms. It can be bought in many drug stores and health stores.
The shelf life of vitamin C is relatively short. Aside from the fact that it cannot be stored in the body, it is not in its active form for long period of time. To retain and protect the shelf life of your vitamin C supplement, make sure that the supplements are placed in an air – tight container. Also, do not allow moisture to get in contact with the supplement because water can shorten the vitamin’s chemical strength. Vitamin C is also sensitive to light. Make sure to protect it from light and do not expose it to too much sunlight. Therefore, you have to store it in a not – so –bright place. Be sure to purchase vitamin C which is newly manufactured and not those that are near to its expiry.
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- Can Vitamin D Deficiency Cause Crohn’s? (everydayhealth.com)
- http://healthunify.com/ (Great Resource)