The Cornerstone of Good Immunity: Vitamin C
The Cornerstone of Good Immunity: Vitamin C
Immunity is a complex, intricate and layered system within your body. A regular supply of nutrients helps it to be balanced and function properly. Chief among the immune-boosting Vitamins required is Vitamin C. Acting as an antioxidant it helps the body fight against free radicals and the damage they cause. At the time food is converted to energy, free radicals are released into the body. The environment also produces free radicals that range from sources like air pollution to ultraviolet rays from the sun. The most interesting aspect of Vitamin C is that it is neither stored nor produced by the body. It has to come from outside sources, mainly from food.
Vitamin C’s Role in Immunity
Vitamin C plays a very important role in protecting the body. Increasing immunity is the primary function of this nutrient. Here are a few ways in which it helps the body.
Collagen Production
Collagen is a protein that is essential for the body. It helps heal wounds. Vitamin C is helpful in the production of this protein. Hence, lower levels of collagen lead to a longer duration for wounds to heal.
Iron Absorption
Vitamin C is an immune booster because of its power to help absorb iron, especially from plant-based foods. It is one of the most abundant minerals in the body and proper levels of Vitamin C are crucial.
Better Skin
The skin has its share of benefits received from an intake of the immune-boosting vitamin. Vitamin C, helps your skin fight off oxidative stress from the environment.
Vision
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a disease that blurs your vision over time. The macula is the part of the eye that is affected. Additionally, it is prevalent among older individuals. Vitamin C may not outright help cure AMD but it does help in the slowing down of its progression.
Relief from the Common Cold
Vitamin C, the immune-boosting vitamin, helps fight against the common cold. Further, research shows that the immune system booster helps in the reduction and severity of symptoms of the common cold.
Vitamin C is however not the only immunity-supporting diet supplement. The immune system booster is a careful combination of various nutrients. Vitamin C makes up a small part of the greater immune-boosting supplements family. Vitamin C is the cornerstone of immunity. It helps your body to produce collagen, absorb iron, and more. From the common cold to maintaining eye health, Vitamin C has a significant role to play in immunity. Citrus fruits, leafy greens, and unrefined foods are your best sources of Vitamin C. It can easily be absorbed if foods are not overcooked. However, supplements are a good source of Vitamin C in case of diet restrictions. Remember to keep it at optimal levels. 80 mg for adult males and 65 mg for an adult female is the recommended dietary intake amount per day
Author: Dr. Anil Date, MD | Dr2bThin – A medically supervised weight loss program based in California, USA. For any query/assistance, reach back to us at info@dr2bthin.com
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