Some people see vitamin C as the best remedy for the common cold. Others on the other hand, know a little bit more. This water-soluble vitamin packs numerous other benefits that will keep you looking younger and healthier. Scientists in the health niche have taken a closer look at the potential benefits, and came to the conclusion that vitamin C can help treat more serious conditions too.
Vitamin C wards off wrinkles
Most beauty products today are packed with antioxidants that promise you extraordinary results; vitamin C is one of those powerful antioxidants. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition published a report in 2007 that emphasized that foods high in vitamin C might help prevent wrinkle formation. Furthermore, the study mentioned that those who consumed more vitamin C would benefit from a much more nourished complexion. The vitamin is a fundamental ingredient in the formation of collagen within the epidermis. Increased amounts smoothes wrinkles and fine lines, and keeps the skin looking fresh, hydrated and smooth.
Vitamin C has the ability to fight free radical damage. Free radicals are believed to attack the DNA as well as the healthy fats and proteins within the system. Vitamin C might fight off those radicals and thus firm and repair the skin.
Heart protector
Physicians and nutritionists are still trying to figure out whether or not the antioxidants contained in vitamin C have heart-healing properties. Some studies look promising though; a couple of Finish researchers performed a study on 300,000 individuals over a period of 10 years. They attempted to prove that including over 700 mg of vitamin C (under the form of supplementation) into one’s diet might help reduce the risk of developing heart disease with 25%. Another study performed by several Harvard researchers emphasized that women who included 500 mg of vitamin C and 600 UI of vitamin E into their diet on a daily basis could prevent the risk of a stroke by 30%.
Vitamin C might help enhance endothelial cell functioning. These cells live within the blood vessels, and by taking vitamin C the blood pressure may decrease, thus also slowing down artery clogging. To keep your heart in good shape, you might want to supplement your diet with lots of fruits and vegetables, but also supplements rich in vitamin C.
Brain booster
When paired with vitamin E, vitamin C might have exceptional health benefits for the brain. Archives of Neurology researchers mentioned that 500 mg of vitamin C and 400 UI of vitamin E might decrease the chances of developing Alzheimer’s disease. The human brain is high in fat, thus making it particularly vulnerable to free radical damage. However, the antioxidants contained in Vitamin C and E may protect the brain, thus keeping it in a healthier condition.
Eyesight cure
Vitamin C contains several powerful antioxidants that might help prevent blindness in the case of AMD (age related macular degeneration). About 3 million Americans are in the early stages of developing AMD; the disease affects more women than men, and according to a clinical trial performed by the National Eye Institute, a daily vitamin C and E supplement can help reduce the risks of developing this health condition by 25%. Vitamin C has the ability of neutralizing damage caused to the retina by free radicals, thus preserving clear eyesight for extended periods of time, especially after the age of 50. In case you have a family history of AMD, you might want to consult a physician and discuss about taking supplements to ward off the disease. Vitamin C is high in beta-carotene, copper and zinc; all these help your eyesight remain in excellent condition.
Vitamin C packs a wealth of key benefits to the health. It keeps connective tissues healthy and it is fundamental in skin care. However, because we’re talking about a water-soluble vitamin, it can’t be stored inside the body for too long, and thus the necessary quantity should be taken daily from healthy foods (fruits and vegetables) or as a supplement. Further studies on the effects of vitamin C are still under development, and thus far, the assumed benefits provided on the heart and brain is circumstantial.
By Alfred Stallion and Supplemented.co.uk!