All the secrets of Vitamin C
Vitamin C is of fundamental importance for the well-being and health of tissues thanks to its antioxidant action which helps to preserve all cellular functions in the best possible way.
Vitamin C is very very important for the correct functioning of the immune system; in fact, a continuous and regular intake of ascorbic acid helps prevent the typical ailments of the winter season.
During sporting or high mental activity, in states of stress, cigarette smoke, exposure to pollutants, etc. the consumption of Vitamin C increases considerably.
What is vitamin C?
Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, belongs to the group of so-called water-soluble vitamins, i.e. the group of vitamins that dissolve in water. Vitamin C cannot be accumulated in the body, but must be regularly ingested through food. Vitamin C is very sensitive to high temperatures, so all its properties are lost when cooked in water.
Properties of vitamin C
Vitamin C has an extraordinary antioxidant power capable of neutralizing the action of free radicals and counteracting aging by stimulating the production of collagen. It also has a uniforming effect as it helps lighten spots and compact the texture.
Precisely thanks to its antioxidant properties, vitamin C raises the barriers of the immune system and reduces the risk of tumours, especially of the stomach, by inhibiting the synthesis of carcinogenic substances.
Where is vitamin C found
Vitamin C is mainly contained in some types of fruit and vegetables such as oranges, strawberries, tangerines, kiwis, lemons, spinach, broccoli, tomatoes and peppers. These foods must be kept for no more than 3-4 days and eaten raw or in any case undercooked, because vitamin C is sensitive to high temperatures
How much vitamin C should you take?
The daily requirement for vitamin C is about 90 mg for men and about 70 mg for women, and the requirement increases during pregnancy
Vitamin C deficiency causes the onset of scurvy which manifests itself with apathy, anemia and inappetence followed by bleeding of the gums, falling teeth, muscle pain and subcutaneous bleeding.
Excess of vitamin C
Excessive intake of vitamin C can cause kidney problems, with the formation of stones, or it can cause an increase in the iron values circulating in the blood because vitamin C promotes its absorption. In addition, headaches, heartburn, vomiting, diarrhea, gastritis and abdominal cramps, but also weakness, dizziness and hot flashes may occur.
Vitamin C and colds
It has always been believed that taking vitamin C can eliminate colds. It is not so! Vitamin C has no therapeutic properties and can not prevent or cure colds.
Vitamin C on the other hand has the ability to reduce recovery times from a flu episode, always obviously abusing it in its intake, so as not to create an overdose.