How Vitamin C supports an active lifestyle

Vitamin C (also called ascorbic acid) is among the best-known vitamins. It is involved in many body functions, including contributing to the normal formation of collagen for the normal function of the skin, bones and teeth, increasing the absorption of iron, supporting the immune system and as an antioxidant, it contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress. Moreover, vitamin C helps to reduce tiredness and fatigue and helps support energy release to help you stay on top form.

Benefits of vitamin C

The human body cannot produce vitamin C so it needs to be provided as part of a healthy and balanced diet. The most common sources of vitamin C are fruits and vegetables (especially citrus fruits).

Quote – Vitamin C supplements can help lower the damaging effects of oxidative stress

Food rich in vitamin C:

Fruits (guava, blackcurrant, lemon, strawberry, oranges, kiwi)
Vegetables (peppers, spinach, kale, broccoli, brussel sprouts)

There may be some people who are particularly at risk of vitamin C deficiency. People with active lifestyles should provide their bodies with sufficient amounts of vitamins B and C for optimal physical and mental performance. Missing vitamin C and B9 can cause fatigue. Studies have shown that athletes who regularly take vitamin C supplements had less muscle soreness, better muscle function and lower blood levels of the oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. These last two (oxidative stress and inflammation) have been linked to many chronic illnesses, including heart disease and diabetes.

Other effects of vitamin C deficiency:

The lack of vitamin C can lead to scurvy.
Insufficient intake of vitamin C can affect your daily performance.
Efficiency at work can also be affected. Vitamin C deficiency can cause fatigue and poor mood. This chronic tiredness and irritability can lower your performance at work.

Oxidative damage and the resultant inflammatory changes are now known to lie at the root of most common chronic conditions in humans, such as cardiovascular disease and cancer. Vitamin C supplements can help lower the damaging effects of oxidative stress.

Vitamin C supplements can help lower the damaging effects of oxidative stress.