Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that’s needed by the body. It’s also known as ascorbic acid and helps strengthen the immune system, preventing infections and various diseases. Although it may not be a treatment for the common cold, it can help speed up the healing process. This vitamin plays a vital role in forming collagen, muscle, cartilage, and blood vessels. The body doesn’t produce this nutrient, but you can easily get it from the foods you eat. A balanced diet is often enough to get the recommended dietary allowance or RDA. The RDA for men 19 years old and above is 90 mg daily, while women need 75 mg.
Foods rich in vitamin C include berries, white potatoes, tomatoes, bell peppers, and citrus fruits. Also, smoking and other pollutants may deplete the level of vitamin C in the body, so you may need to take more than the recommended amount. Vitamin C deficiency is uncommon, especially in developed countries. However, this condition could cause anemia, fatigue, and scurvy. Taking up to 2000 mg of this vitamin a day is safe. Below are some of its benefits.
Strengthens the Immune System
It’s the most popular vitamin for boosting the immune system. It’s an antioxidant that helps the white blood cells perform their jobs better, thus effectively fighting infections that may invade the body. A strong immune system is vital to prevent sickness so you can do your daily routine without problems. It also improves the quality of life since you are not restricted and burdened by diseases. If you’re unwell, you will miss many things in your personal and professional life, and it will also be difficult to do your responsibilities.
If you’re having trouble getting the recommended amount of vitamin C, you may take supplements to make up for that. Some signs that your immune system is weak are fatigue, repeated infections, stomach problems, and wounds that take longer to heal. Besides increasing the amount of vitamin C in your diet, you can also strengthen your immune system by managing your weight, exercising regularly, meditating, and getting enough sleep. Other nutrients also aid in this, like vitamin B12 and vitamin D.
