Let’s Get Acquainted With The Famous Vitamin C!

With all the fruit ads you see on television these days, whether it's for the actual fruit, a type of drink or candy, you've been introduced to the famous Vitamin C repeatedly. And this isn't surprising because the body actually utilizes this vitamin for over 300 functions. Proven to help against a myriad of illnesses, including heart disease and cancer, it is an essential vitamin that your body must have.

Vitamin C is vital for the formation of collagen, and without it, your body wouldn't even be able to heal itself. Whenever you have a cut or injury, it's the collagen that helps repair the damage and without the sufficient amount of Vitamin C in your body, this would be near impossible to do.

Vitamin C also acts an antioxidant for the body and allows your body to absorb other vitamins and minerals better. Folic acid and iron, for example, need the C Vitamin to maximize their usefulness. The more vitamin C that the body has, the better your body will be able to defend itself against colds and other common ailments. Vitamin C may not prevent a person from catching a virus but it does help speed up the recovery process.

This particular vitamin is found in just about every fruit and vegetable. Certain ones such as cranberries and melons have higher Vitamin C content. In fact, tropical fruits have the highest C Vitamin compared to other fruits. Hot peppers are amongst the richest sources of the Vitamin C when it comes to vegetables. The hotter the pepper, the higher its vitamin C content!

Unfortunately, the c Vitamin is water soluble. Many vegetables lose their effectiveness as a Vitamin C provider if they are overcooked. The best way to retain Vitamin C in your food is through steaming or quick stir-frying. The recommended daily amount of the C Vitamin is easily obtained from eating five portions of fruit and vegetables a day, if they are consumed raw or cooked quickly.

Like other vitamins, Vitamin C supplements are also readily available in the market. Supplements are extremely useful in ensuring that you get sufficient Vitamin C. Vitamin C supplements are especially good for children, especially for those young ones who dislike vegetables. Remember, that there is no harm in taking too much Vitamin C, so go ahead and have as many fruits and vegetables everyday!