VITAMIN C FACTSHEET
- 29 Oct 2019
- Posted by Samantha Varriale
- Nutrients
- Comments
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?
- Most people know that Vitamin C is important for the immune system but it’s also needed for lots of other bodily functions. Sufficient vitamin C is needed for:
- Making collagen which is an important protein used to make skin, ligaments, tendons, cartilage and blood
- Repairing and maintaining bones and teeth
- The growth and repair of tissues in the body
- The function of the adrenal glands which are involved in several bodily functions
Good to know:
- We can’t make vitamin C so have to get it from our diet
- Vitamin C helps the body to absorb iron from food
- Vitamin C supplementation has been shown to reduce blood pressure
- Smoking lowers vitamin C in the body, so smokers are more likely to be deficient
Signs of vitamin C deficiency:
- Poor immune function – frequent coughs and colds
- Bleeding gums / Nose bleeds
- Easy bruising
- Poor wound healing
- Painful and/or swollen joints
What are the best sources of Vitamin C?
- Eating a wide range of fruits and vegetables is the best way to get your vitamin C but it’s not all about oranges – the following fruits and vegetables contain more vitamin C per 100 grams than oranges:
- Red Cabbage
- Cauliflower
- Strawberries, Blackcurrants, Kiwi Fruit
- Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, Spring Greens
- Red, Yellow & Green Peppers
If you have any questions about Vitamin D or want to book a health screen with Dr Shilpa, book an appointment or call 0203 303 0326