What is Vitamin C?
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble essential vitamin. It is vital for several biochemical functions in the human body but cannot be produced or stored by the body. Therefore, it must be consumed daily through diet or supplements.
It is one of the most powerful natural antioxidants, which protects the body’s cells and tissues from damage caused by free radicals. It is also crucial for the synthesis of collagen, a protein that supports skin, bones, blood vessels, and cartilage.
Why Our Body Cannot Produce Vitamin C?
Humans, unlike some animals, lack the GULO gene needed to synthesize Vitamin C. This means we must obtain it externally, or risk deficiency diseases like scurvy.
Sources of Vitamin C
- Fruits: Amla (Indian gooseberry), oranges, lemons, strawberries, kiwi, papaya, guava
- Vegetables: Bell peppers, broccoli, cabbage, tomatoes, spinach
Note: These should be eaten raw or lightly cooked to retain Vitamin C content.
Destroyed by Cooking and Heat
Vitamin C is thermolabile – meaning it gets degraded with heat, air, and light. Boiling or frying can destroy 50–70% of its content.
Not Stored in the Body
As a water-soluble vitamin, excess Vitamin C is excreted in urine within hours. Therefore, the body needs a daily supply to maintain adequate levels.
What is Oxidative Stress?
Oxidative stress is an imbalance between free radicals and the body’s ability to detoxify them using antioxidants. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage DNA, proteins, and cells, contributing to aging, cancer, heart diseases, and inflammation.
How Vitamin C Helps in Oxidative Stress
- Neutralizes harmful free radicals (ROS)
- Regenerates other antioxidants like Vitamin E
- Reduces inflammation and supports detoxification
- Prevents cell and DNA damage
- Enhances immunity and tissue repair
High-Dose Vitamin C
In conditions of high oxidative stress, Vitamin C in higher doses (1000–2000 mg/day) may help improve recovery, immunity, and detoxification. This should be done under medical guidance.
Be Careful with Supplements
While Vitamin C is safe in general, cheap or poor-quality supplements can lead to:
- Kidney stones (especially in sensitive individuals)
- Gastric upset or diarrhea (in very high doses)
- Unwanted additives or contaminants
Always choose supplements from trusted brands.
Recommended Trusted Brands
- Amway (Nutrilite) (Whatsapp message or call me on +919152161881 to avail this product
🔑 Conclusion
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in protecting against oxidative stress and maintaining overall health. As our body does not produce or store it, and it is easily destroyed by heat and cooking, it is critical to consume it daily through fresh foods or high-quality supplements.
