As we are heading in to winter. Many of us can get sick / ill as it is the time of year when colds and viruses can spread. Not only is vitamin C great for boosting your immune system. It also has other health benefits.
Strengthens the Immune System
Perhaps vitamin C’s best-known benefit is the positive effect it has on the immune system. Vitamin C is found to support the immune system by protecting against oxidative stress, aiding in microbial killing, and decreasing the potential for tissue damage. A deficiency in this vitamin has been shown to increase the rate of infections. It’s unlikely that loading up on vitamin C once you start sniffling will keep you from getting a cold, but it could help you recover more quickly.
Stimulates Collagen Synthesis
The body depends on vitamin C for the synthesis of collagen, which is found in connective tissue around the body. Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and plays a critical role in connective tissues like those found in our organs and of course our hair, skin, and nails.
You may know collagen as the skin’s anti-aging savior as some health and beauty experts portray it. A study published a few years ago found that topically applying vitamin C to the skin led to increased collagen production and younger-looking skin. The increased collagen synthesis also means vitamin C helps wounds heal.
Enhanced Brain Function
Vitamin C also plays a role in neurotransmitter synthesis and cognitive function, this is important for sending messages from the brain to the rest of the body. More vitamin C may be associated with increased brain function. A higher vitamin C concentrations in cognitively intact study participants compared with those with impaired cognition.
May Assist Cancer Treatment
Eating a diet filled with vitamin C–rich fruits and veggies appears to reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, but research isn’t clear about whether that’s directly related to the vitamin C content or the result of following a health diet more generally.
Vitamin C may make radiation and chemotherapy more effective when taken intravenously in extra-high doses, according to several studies too.