Vitamin C mainly supplements essential antioxidants in the human body, participates in collagen synthesis, promotes iron absorption, and enhances immune function. Lack of vitamin C may lead to gum bleeding, slow wound healing, weakened immunity, and other issues. Daily intake can be through fresh vegetables and fruits, and supplements can be taken according to medical advice if necessary.
1. Antioxidant Effects
Vitamin C is a potent water-soluble antioxidant that can neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress damage to cells. This characteristic helps to delay skin aging, reduce the risk of chronic inflammation, and has some help in preventing cardiovascular disease. Its antioxidant mechanism is achieved through self redox reactions, while also regenerating other antioxidant substances such as vitamin E.
2. Collagen synthesis
Vitamin C participates in hydroxylation reactions as a coenzyme and is an essential factor in collagen synthesis. When lacking, it can lead to abnormal collagen fiber structure, manifested as dry skin, gum bleeding, and fragile capillaries. In clinical practice, vitamin C assists in the treatment of trauma, burns, and postoperative recovery by promoting connective tissue repair and accelerating wound healing.
3. Iron absorption promotion
Vitamin C can reduce trivalent iron to more easily absorbed divalent iron, improving the bioavailability of iron in plant-based foods. It is recommended that anemic patients consume citrus fruits rich in vitamin C together with high iron foods, but be careful not to take them with calcium supplements to avoid affecting absorption efficiency.
4. Immune regulation
Vitamin C enhances immunity by supporting white blood cell function and enhancing epithelial barrier integrity. Research has shown that it can shorten the course of colds, but its effectiveness in preventing colds is limited. Under infection or stress, the human body's demand for vitamin C will significantly increase and needs to be replenished in a timely manner.
5. Neurotransmitter synthesis
Vitamin C is involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine, maintaining normal nervous system function. Long term lack may lead to symptoms such as fatigue and low mood. Moderate supplementation has a certain auxiliary effect on improving cognitive function and relieving stress.
It is recommended to consume sufficient amounts of vitamin C daily through diet. The recommended amount for adults is 100 milligrams, and pregnant and lactating women should increase it to 130 milligrams. Prioritize natural food sources such as kiwifruit, fresh dates, and broccoli, and avoid prolonged high-temperature heating during cooking. When taking supplements, attention should be paid to the safe upper limit of not exceeding 2000 milligrams per day. Patients with kidney stones and iron overload syndrome should use them under the guidance of a doctor. Maintaining a balanced diet combined with regular sleep patterns is essential to fully utilize the physiological effects of vitamin C.
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