We all know that vitamin C helps to reduce the effects and length of colds. More studies into this vital micronutrient have shown additional benefits to our physical and mental health.
This water-soluble vitamin provides essential support for collagen, energy production, and neurotransmitter biosynthesis. Ensuring proper levels of vitamin C will establish a sound baseline for health across multiple physiological processes.
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is readily available in nature. Many plants and animals are able to synthesize ascorbic acid as needed. However, because we lack the enzyme gulonolactone oxidase, humans are one of few species that cannot manufacture vitamin C on our own.
Another problem we face is that often our modern, western diets deprive us of the vitamin C we need. Processed foods and high temperatures break down this micronutrient. So, if we rely on fast food diets and heavily cooked meals rather than fresh fruits and vegetables, we may not receive the proper amount of vitamin C our bodies require to work most effectively.
Fortunately, the world is full of fruits and vegetables rich with vitamin C. With some strategic thought and careful planning, we find it is not difficult to incorporate vitamin C into our diets. Foods that provide high levels of vitamin C include:
As a critical micronutrient, vitamin C provides numerous health benefits when proper levels are established in the body. Early sailors gained medical insight that helped determine that citrus fruits, high in vitamin C, would prevent scurvy. Now, we are learning more about the properties of ascorbic acid that provide additional defenses against a greater number of illnesses and adverse conditions. This micronutrient contributes toward many aspects of a healthy life, including:
As noted above, it can be easy to slip into a vitamin C deficiency because of the nature of our diet in the western world. Other considerations inhibit the body’s ability to maintain adequate vitamin C levels. Alcohol consumption, smoking, and environmental factors such as air pollution can all contribute toward oxidative stress, which all increase the demand for ascorbic acid.
When our bodies lack adequate vitamin C support, there are a number of undesirable outcomes, including:
Current studies are exploring how vitamin C may help to prevent neural loss in certain patients. Though conclusions are developing, Vitamin C has been shown to mitigate oxidative stress that is common in dementia, Alzheimer’s, and other neurodegenerative diseases.
The best place to start in vitamin C intake is your diet. Be sure to include fresh fruits and vegetables as well as the other foods listed above. Supplements are a good secondary source of vitamin C when a diet does not provide enough of this vitamin by itself. If you feel you are suffering any of the symptoms of low vitamin C, we at Bridgepoint Clinics are ready to help.
Our team of trained professionals is ready to conduct a thorough analysis of your condition. We have the tools and experience to ask questions and follow the procedures that will diagnose the true root cause of any health concern.
Once we determine the cause of your situation, we apply our knowledge to develop a plan for healing. Whether through dietary changes, physical activities, or any necessary therapy, our scientific staff will guide you through the steps of our plan toward the healthy lifestyle you deserve.
Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation and re-join the ranks of those living a healthy and normal lifestyle.
Resources:
https://www.dnafit.com/advice/nutrition/7-health-benefits-of-vitamin-c.asp
https://conductscience.com/maze/vitamin-c-depression-and-cognition/
https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/articles/201801/the-cognitive-benefits-vitamin-c
https://bmcpsychiatry.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12888-020-02730-w
