Antioxidant properties of vitamin C

Let us understand the basics-whenever there is a chemical reaction in our body, the weak bonds split and free radicals are formed. Free radicals are caused by stress, environmental toxins and food additives. Free radicals are also formed oxygen is used by the body for normal metabolism (oxidation). These free radicals are highly reactive and can damage body cells in the absence of anti-oxidants.

Dietary antioxidants like vitamin C (and vitamin E, and other minerals) are substances that significantly reduce the harmful effects of the free radicals that disturb the normal functions of the cells in the body.

The basic function of vitamin C is the production of collagen, which forms the base of the tissue connecting the cells of bones, teeth and cartilages. It also plays an important role in immunity building, wound healing and the nervous system.

Vitamin c is a water-soluble antioxidant, meaning all its functions take place in liquid based medium. As an antioxidant, it helps protect body against cancer, heart disease and certain effects of aging.

Role of vitamin C in

Cancer-
Studies have shown that vitamin C helps in certain cancers like breast cancer, cervical cancer and skin cancer. Dietary supplements of vitamin c have known to benefit these cases of cancers whereas studies say that taking vitamin c supplements has not shown to have any helpful effect.

Heart disease-
Scientific studies have shown that vitamin c does not directly prevent a heart attack, but it can prevent the process of damage of the arteries. Vitamin c can prevent the hardening of arteries that could lead to the heart attack by preventing the damage to the bad cholesterol which then forms plaques in the arteries and can give a stroke.

In addition, it is also proven that people with deficiency of vitamin c are more likely to have a heart attack, stroke and hardening of blood vessels of the legs that can lead to pain in the legs while walking.

Eating foods rich in vitamin c is important for your overall health, especially if you are at risk for high blood pressure.

Age-related arthritis-
As we said earlier, vitamin c is required for formation of collagen which is a part of normal cartilage. Also, researchers think free radicals present in the body can damage the cartilage of the bones. Hence, vitamin C can prevent the damage from the free radicals. Evidence does show that people who take vitamin c rich diet are less likely to suffer from osteoarthritis.

Other-

• boosts immunity
• treats in allergy related complaints like frequent colds, asthma and eczema
• maintains healthy gums
• decreasing blood sugar in people suffering from diabetes
• preventing infections.

Vitamin C rich food must be included in your diet to prevent or at least reduce the severity and frequency of the complaints.