Ascorbic acid"aka" Vitamin C is the most prominent among the vitamins. It neutralizes free radicals, strengthens the immune system, and is important for wound healing. Plants and most animals can produce vitamin C themselves. However, humans do not have the ability toVitamin C synthesis, so it must be absorbed through food. Vitamin C is found in many fruits and vegetables. However, as a water-soluble vitamin, it reacts verysensitive to oxygen, light and heat.
What functions does vitamin C have?
Vitamin C supports our body’s defenses byImmune defense of cellsIt increases the activity of white blood cells and phagocytes, which fight against invaders such as bacteria. Vitamin C also supports theFormation of lymphocytesThese are also special white blood cells that serve the immune system. Vitamin C can prevent colds or reduce the duration and severity of an infection. Vitamin C is also the mostFormation of connective tissue, bones and teeth and promotes the availability of iron from plant foods.
Use of vitamin C
Vitamin C is particularly important for people with low iron intake – such as vegetarians and vegans – or for those with increased iron requirements. Vitamin C is known as 'biological detoxification factor' important and inhibits the formation of carcinogenic nitrosamines in the stomach.
Other typical applications for vitamin C:
Increased defense against infections: Adequate vitamin C intake is a prerequisite for a healthy immune system. The body's susceptibility to infections increases with a vitamin C deficiency. Some scientists believe that extremely high doses of vitamin C could provide particularly high protection against infections.
In case of serious injuries: Since vitamin C is important for wound healing, it is important to ensure an adequate supply, especially in the case of injuries or burns.
osteoporosis: Scientific studies show that vitamin C is important for bone stability.
shortages: as a result of malnutrition or dialysis treatment.
Collagen formationVitamin C is also necessary for collagen formation. It promotes the development and maturation of cartilage.
Alcohol and nicotine consumptionSmokers have an approximately 40% increased need for vitamin C. The reason: Smoking accelerates vitamin C degradation. Furthermore, regular alcohol consumption also increases the need.
Which foods contain vitamin C?
Significant amounts of vitamin C can be found, for example, in black currants, peppers, broccoli, kiwis, Brussels sprouts, kale, strawberries, oranges, grapefruits and potatoes.
Am I lacking vitamin C?
If one of the following applies, your vitamin C supply could be too low:
* Do you mostly eat cooked food?
* Are you a smoker?
* Do you avoid raw vegetables, fruits and fruit juices?
* Do you regularly drink a lot of alcohol?
