We are aware that in order for our immune system to operate well, vitamin C, sometimes referred to as ascorbic acid, is required in sufficient amounts. When many of us start to feel under the weather or want to take preventative measures as the weather turns cooler, it only makes sense that we would turn to this supplement. But is there any evidence to suggest that it is effective?
The idea that taking vitamin C can ward off cold and flu symptoms associated with the changing of the seasons is a relatively recent one. In the decades that followed, a large number of researchers attempted to discover the precise impact that vitamin C has on the symptoms and severity of the common cold, but their findings were, for the most part, unsatisfying. And to add insult to injury, the findings of recent research have been contradictory. The response to the question “Does vitamin C help with colds?” may therefore not be as simple as one may expect.
Vitamin C is an essential component in the development of a wide variety of human tissues and serves a variety of vital roles in our bodies. Continue reading this article to discover the numerous advantages of vitamin C.
VITAMIN C IS ESSENTIAL FOR SKIN COLLAGEN PRODUCTION
Collagen is the most common type of protein found in animals, and it is responsible for giving our skin and other tissues their firm yet pliable structure. In most cases, not getting enough vitamin C can lead to a compromised immune system as well as an increased likelihood of contracting an illness. Ascorbic acid can help make hormones, use energy, get rid of free radicals, and absorb iron in the digestive tract.
HIGH-RISK PATIENTS MAY BENEFIT FROM VITAMIN C.
Individuals who are at a high risk of developing a serious illness may also benefit from taking vitamin C supplements, as these have the potential to reduce inflammation. During the course of an infection, consuming an adequate amount of ascorbic acid is a fantastic idea.
On the other hand, this does not imply that taking vitamin C would entirely and successfully protect you from catching a cold during the winter months. There is not enough data to suggest that taking vitamin C as a preventative measure is an effective therapy for the cold and flu. Instead, we are aware that a significant lack of a nutrient can make it more difficult for our bodies to ward off infection. This means that, over the course of time, not obtaining enough vitamin C may increase the probability that you may become ill.
VITAMIN C PROTECTS EPITHELIAL BARRIERS
According to the journal Nutrients, vitamin C is essential for preserving the structural integrity of our epithelial barriers, which are all of the surfaces that prevent any external toxins from entering our bodies. The epithelial lining of the skin and the intestinal walls are two examples of epithelial barriers.
Vitamin C also helps to protect our skin from infections by strengthening its structure and improving its ability to scavenge free radicals. Additionally, vitamin C helps to improve the ability of our immune system to recognize and destroy microorganisms before they begin to pose a threat to our health. In principle, we ought to be protected from these very small respiratory infections by vitamin C.
VITAMIN C BOOSTS B- AND T-LYMPHOCYTE GROWTH.
Vitamin C promotes an increase in the generation of B-and T-lymphocytes as well as their multiplication. Antibodies are proteins that bind to bacteria and viruses and are produced by B lymphocytes. Our immune system is able to recognize them as alien bodies thanks to this procedure. T-lymphocytes are responsible for the job of eliminating unwelcome guests who have been tagged. To reiterate, according to the hypothesis, vitamin C ought to assist in reducing the severity of symptoms and the length of time needed to recover from the common cold.
IT REDUCES HEART DISEASE RISK
In many parts of the world, heart disease is one of the major causes of death. High blood pressure, high levels of triglycerides, and low levels of HDL cholesterol (the “good”) all contribute to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Vitamin C may help minimize these risk factors, which in turn may reduce the risk of developing heart disease. Vitamin C intake of at least 500 milligrams per day, either through supplementation or diet, has been shown to lower the risk of developing coronary heart disease. On the other hand, if you currently consume a diet that is high in vitamin C, then taking supplements probably won’t provide any further benefits to your heart health.
CONCLUSION
Colds can definitely be made to last less time by using vitamin C. Since vitamin C is a water-soluble nutrient, the human body is unable to store it; instead, the body excretes it through the urine as waste. However, taking large quantities of vitamin C could have unintended consequences. At this time, the daily intake of this vitamin cannot exceed 2 grams.
