Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble nutrient present in various foods. It acts as a potent antioxidant, shielding the body from the harmful effects of free radicals.
It aids in protecting against heart disease, high blood pressure, the common cold, cancer, osteoarthritis, asthma, and pre-eclampsia. Additionally, it boosts immunity, maintains healthy gums, treats allergies, eczema, and hay fever, reduces sunburn or redness, heals burns and wounds, addresses viral conditions, and lowers blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes.
Deficiencies can manifest as dry and splitting hair, gingivitis, bleeding gums, rough, dry, scaly skin, delayed wound healing, easy bruising, nosebleeds, and reduced infection resistance. Severe vitamin C deficiency is known as scurvy.
Vitamin C and Cancer: High-dose vitamin C can be administered intravenously or orally. Studies have indicated that high doses of vitamin C may inhibit the growth and spread of various cancer cells, such as those found in prostate, pancreatic, liver, and colon cancers. Some research suggests that patients undergoing combined treatment experienced slower disease progression, while others indicated reduced chemotherapy side effects in those taking high doses of vitamin C, which can be used in conjunction with chemotherapy.
The importance of vitamin C lies in its role in tissue growth and repair throughout the body. It facilitates collagen production, a crucial protein for skin, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels. Vitamin C is essential for wound healing, bone and teeth maintenance, as well as aiding in iron absorption.
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