Dec 09 2008
Have you taken your Vitamin C today?
Vitamin C is one of the best known vitamins. Parents have been giving their kids Vitamin C since they discovered just how good it is for you and could be packed into a supplement. Sailors would eat oranges and lemons on long voyages for the prevention of scurvy. They didn’t realize that it was the Vitamin C at work in their systems.
Vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin. It is also known as asorbic acid. It is an antioxidant. An antioxidants slows or prevents the oxidation of other molecules. Vitamin C also has been shown to boost the immune system. It does this by increasing the white blood cell count. These are the cells that fight infections and viruses. Vitamin C also raises HDL levels, that is the good cholesterol, and lowers blood pressure.
We see that Vitamin C is good for you. The FDA’s RDI (Recommended Daily Intakes) for Vitamin C is 6omg. Some people recommend that you take more than that to increase your immune system. But most doctors say that 200mg is the sufficent amount.
Vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin. It needs to be replenished in your body continuously. Many fruits and vegetables contain Vitamin C. It is best to get these naturally. If you do take supplements it is recommended not to take the chewable ones. Remember that Vitamin C is also known as asorbic acid. Taking large doses of chewable vitamin C can cause tooth issues.
Take your Vitamin C this winter, but don’t stop there. It is a vitamin to take all year long. See? Your parents were right!
