What is the
importance of vitamin C ?
Vitamin C is
essential for the manufacturing of
collagen, necessary for tissue
repair. It is needed for metabolism
of phenylalanine, tyrosine, folic
acid, iron. Vitamin C is also vital
for healthy immune and nervous
systems because it strengthens blood
vessels, as it is an antioxidant
that participates in
oxidation-reduction reactions. Also,
it is required for utilizing
carbohydrates and synthesizing fats
and proteins.
How much
vitamin C do you need?
It is impossible for anyone to tell
you how much of any particular
vitamin you need. We have read many
articles and reports on this subject
and no two are alike. There are too
many variables involved. Your age,
your height and weight, your health
and lifestyle, etc. The best way for
you to decide which supplements you
need is to read these pages and make
note of any health problems you may
be having which could be associated
with a vitamin deficiency. Then
start taking a small dose. If your
symptoms don't go away after a week
or two, increase your dosage.
Continue this until your symptoms
are relieved and stay with that
dosage.Guideline is for a 150
pound adult:
- Men: 500 mg
- Women: 500 mg
Always consult your doctor or
midwife during pregnancy and
lactation.
Always start small and work your
way up, if needed.
Because
smoking depletes vitamin C, people
who smoke generally need additional
vitamin C.
What is a “good
source” of vitamin C ?
A “good source” of
vitamin C contains a substantial
amount of vitamin C in relation to
its calorie content.
The foods listed below are
considered good sources of Vitamin
C:
|
Guava |
Papaya |
Spinach |
Orange |
Red Bell
Pepper |
|
Broccoli |
Kohlrabi |
Strawberries |
Grapefruit |
Green
bell pepper |
|
Cantaloupe |
Tomato
juice |
Mango |
Tangerine |
Cabbage |
If you eat an
abundant quantity of
the above foods everyday, you
will not have to worry about
supplementing your diet with
extra Vitamin C. If you
don't eat much of the above
foods or don't eat some of the
above foods each day, you might
consider adding a supplement.
|
