Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Vitamin C-Do I Really Need it?
Vitamin C is the most popular single nutrient taken around the world and is regarded as a powerful antioxidant which defends tissue and protects the body against major degenerative diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
Vitamin C is essential for growth and repair of tissues and is necessary for the formation of collagen, bone, and cartilage.
As an antioxidant Vitamin C protects against lipid (fat) and protein oxidation. Vitamin C also helps other antioxidant nutrients (vitamin E and vitamin A) from being oxidized. Vitamin C has also been shown to help prevent the formation of carcinogenic agents; thus protecting the body from many forms of cancer.
Vitamin C’s reputation as a cold preventative and treatment now has clinical evidence to support it. In laboratory conditions, Vitamin C inactivates a variety of viruses and bacteria. Studies show that optimum levels of Vitamin C stimulates important components of the immune system, making it effective in lessening the duration and intensity of the symptoms of upper respiratory infections and the common cold. Vitamin C also has a mild antihistamine effect in the body. Unlike most mammals on this planet, humans lack the ability to produce Vitamin C in our bodies; nor can humans store Vitamin C for long periods of time. Humans must replace Vitamin C routinely due to its water solubility.*
Vitamin C helps to retard the aging process and prevent wrinkles.
Vitamin C helps to prevent many forms of cancer.
Vitamin C helps to prevent cardiovascular disease.
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and helps reduce free radical activity in the body.
Vitamin C is essential for optimum immune system response.
