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Vitamin C
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Vitamin C, or ascorbic
acid, is a powerful antioxidant which helps combat
free radical damage in the body. Free radicals damage
cells, cell membranes and DNA in the body and can be
neutralized with antioxidants. A diet seriously deficient
in ascorbic acid will lead to scurvy, a disease prominent
among sailors prior to the late 1700's.
Where is it from?
Fresh fruits and
vegetables are the best sources for ascorbic acid. Vitamin
C is found in berries, citrus fruits, and
green vegetables. Natural vitamin C is usually extracted
from rose hips, the fleshy base of the rose. Rose
hip is a highly concentrated source of the vitamin,
but vitamin C derived from it confers no special
benefit. Humans are one of the few creatures that
do not produce their own vitamin C, and must obtain
it entirely from their diet.
What is it used for?
Aside from
being a strong antioxidant, Vitamin C promotes the healing
of wounds, fractures, bruises, and isolates infections.
It also stimulates the adrenal glands to manufacture
cortisone, which is involved in healing and helps
to combat stress. Vitamin C also supports immunity
by stimulating the production of white blood cells
which fight infections.
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