New Delhi, December 23 (IANS). Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is not just a simple nutrient for our body. It is a kind of superhero for every cell. You can’t even imagine how serious problems its deficiency can cause. If Vitamin C is completely depleted from the body, gums may start bleeding, old wounds may reopen, nerves may become weak and teeth may begin to fall out.
Actually, Vitamin C keeps the cells of our body together and we often consider it to be just a vitamin, whereas it is the basic foundation of body strength.
The human body cannot make Vitamin C on its own and cannot store it for a long time. Therefore, we have to take it daily from food and drinks. In general, men need about 90 mg daily, women need 75 mg, and pregnant or breastfeeding women need 85-120 mg. We can easily get it from fruits, vegetables and green leafy things.
The biggest function of Vitamin C is to produce collagen. Collagen is the protein that keeps our skin, bones, nerves and joints strong. Therefore, consuming it in the right quantity is very important to maintain the glow of the skin and strengthen the joints. Apart from this, it also increases the absorption of iron. If you are eating iron-rich food but are deficient in Vitamin C, the body will not be able to absorb that iron completely. Vegetarians should pay special attention to this, because it helps in protecting against anemia.
Vitamin C is also a powerful antioxidant. It protects cells from free radicals, which can damage the body due to aging, stress and pollution. Regular consumption reduces the risk of cancer and heart diseases and keeps immunity strong.
Due to its deficiency, the body gradually starts becoming weak. Problems like fatigue, frequent cold and cough, bleeding gums, weakness of teeth and delay in wound healing occur. In severe deficiency, disease like scurvy can also occur. Therefore, it is never right to ignore Vitamin C.
Amla is the best among its natural sources. Apart from this, guava, kiwi, red capsicum, orange, lemon, papaya, strawberry, broccoli and tomato are included.
–IANS
PIM/ABM
