The Benefits of Vitamin C

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is widely known to support our immune systems. We often associate vitamin C with prevention of the common cold. While it can’t cure a cold in progress, vitamin C may reduce the duration of cold symptoms. Vitamin C is an antioxidant and helps maintain our overall health by providing protection from the damage caused by air pollution, cigarette smoke and ultraviolet light from the sun. In addition, vitamin C is necessary for growth, development and repair of body tissues. It is also important for healthy bones and teeth.

Little boy eating orange.

Food-Based Nutrition

People who get vitamin C from fruits and vegetables are thought to have a lower risk of getting many types of cancer, cardiovascular disease and age-related macular degeneration.

Getting vitamin C from supplements is safe and inexpensive. But the best way to get vitamin C is to eat vitamin C-rich foods on a regular basis. Luckily, that’s pretty easy to do! You can get Vitamin C from citrus fruits, berries, cantaloupe, potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, broccoli and spinach. 

The recommended daily amount of vitamin C is 90 milligrams for adult men and 75 milligrams for adult women. Vitamin C is especially important for children. The National Institute of Health (NIH) is a good resource for guidance on recommended amounts of vitamin C by age.

Author
DHMP Staff Writer


The information contained on this blog is intended for informational purposes only. Nothing contained, expressed or implied in this blog, is intended as medical advice nor should it be construed as such. This blog is not a substitute for professional medical advice, medical diagnosis or treatment by a licensed physician or health care provider. It is not meant to and does not cover all possible precautions, drug interactions, circumstances or adverse effects and reliance on the information on this blog is at your own risk. Always talk to your doctor or other qualified health care provider about any concerns or questions you have about your medical care and do not disregard professional medical advice based on the information herein. You should seek prompt medical care for any health issues and consult your doctor before using alternative medicine or making a change to your regimen.