Why Do You Take Vitamin C?

May 18, 2004

Vitamin C is good for you!

In part it's because it is an antioxidant - and while there have been many claims that Vitamin C relieves stress, or can help you lose weight - there are few facts to back up these claims.

The richest sources of Vitamin C are sweet peppers, black currants, broccoli, brussel sprouts, kale and turnip greens. The longer you cook veggies - the more the vitamin decreases - raw veggies contain the most.

One of the most important benefits of Vitamin C is the formation of collagen - the basis of our connective tissue in skin, capillary walls, bones, and teeth.

Wounds heal faster and blood vessels are healthier when our bodies receive the correct amount of this nutrient. Continued research also shows that it stimulates the immune system.

The RDA for Vitamin C is just 60 mg - long debated - some doctors and nutritionists recommend higher values - but before you increase your intake, check with your doctor.