What is Vitamin C?
Vitamin C (or L-ascorbic acid) is a water-soluble vitamin that is found naturally in some foods and can be taken as a dietary supplement. Since humans cannot synthesize vitamin C endogenously, it is considered to be an “essential” nutrient.
The body requires vitamin C for the biosynthesis of L-carnitine, collagen, and some important neurotransmitters – hormones critical to the nervous system. Vitamin C is also required to metabolise proteins, synthesize collagen for wound healing, and detoxify the body through its role as a physiological antioxidant.
Signs of Vitamin C Deficiency:
A lack of vitamin C leads to a condition called scurvy with signs that can include:
- Fatigue
- Lassitude
- Connective tissue weakness
- Weak capillaries
Other signs of Vitamin C deficiency:
- Small acne-like bumps on arms or thighs
- Spoon-shaped fingernails with red spots or lines
- Dry skin
- Easy bruising
- Slow wound healing
- Painful and/or swollen joints
- Weak bones
- Bleeding gums
- Tooth loss
- Poor immunity
- Persistent anemia
- Unexplained weight gain
- Chronic inflammation
Vitamin C Deficiency Causes:
Some causes of vitamin C deficiency can include:
- Lack of vitamin C in the diet
- Smoking
- Drugs and/or alcoholism
- Crohn’s disease
- Ulcerative colitis.
- Age
- Pregnancy and lactation
- Dialysis
- Exposure to toxins
Benefits of Vitamin C Supplementation:
Supplements can also be used to top up vitamin C levels with benefits that include:
- Scurvy reversal
- Increased energy
- Better immunity
- Reduced inflammation
- Increased immunity
- Better mood
- Healthier teeth and gums
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