Vitamin C Benefits

While most people think of vitamin C as immune support, it has other benefits as well.

Vitamin C acts as a potent antioxidant that promotes cardiovascular health and it supports the formation of collagen and L-carnitine, as well as certain neurotransmitters.Vitamin C is also involved in protein metabolism and it may help boost absorption of nonheme iron.

As an Antioxidant
Vitamin C provides important antioxidant support, helping protect cells from oxidative stress and the effects of free radicals. It may also help regenerate other antioxidants within the body.

For Heart Health
Research suggests that high intakes of foods rich in vitamin C may help support heart health. The cardiovascular benefits of vitamin C may be linked to its role as an antioxidant.

For Weight Loss
There is some correlation between vitamin C levels and body mass. People with adequate levels of vitamin C oxidize 30% more fat during moderate exercise than those with low vitamin C levels. Some researchers believe that low levels of vitamin C may cause us to be more resistant to losing fat.

For Skin Health
Higher intakes of vitamin C may be associated with anti-aging benefits, including reduced wrinkle formation and reduced dryness.These benefits may be due, in part, to the role of vitamin C in healthy collagen synthesis.

For Production of L-Carnitine
L-Carnitine is an amino acid that plays a role in energy production. Our bodies produce it naturally, but low vitamin C levels have been linked to lower production of this important amino acid.

For Synthesizing Neurotransmitters
Vitamin C is required for our body to carry out the enzymatic reaction that synthesizes the neurotransmitter norepinephrine from dopamine. Low vitamin C levels may increase tissue vulnerability due to free radicals and the effects of oxidative damage.

Protein Metabolism
Vitamin C plays a role in breaking down proteins in the body.

For Men
A study suggests that vitamin C may positively impact sexual health.