The area where the benefits of vitamin C are most intensely investigated is cardiovascular health. For years, scientists have been warning us against plaque formations that cause heart attacks and strokes. Therefore, the researchers were looking into the possibility that vitamin C may lower the risk of plaque formation.

VITAMIN C

Most people are now beginning to pay attention to the fat and cholesterol ratio in their blood values, their blood pressure and body mass index. These information not only affect intravascular health, but are also used to determine atherosclerotic plaque formation (leading to vascular stiffness in the future). Scientific data a few years ago revealed that vitamin C can help prevent this type of condition from occurring.

In 2000, British researchers compared 500mg of vitamin C daily to a placebo product for six months on 40 men and women aged 68-80. In the study, the participants used the determined amounts for three months, took a break for a week, and then continued using it again for three months. Such use would help to eliminate personal differences. The results of the study were impressive: daytime systolic blood pressure decreased by an average of 2 mm Hg, and this decrease was most common in patients with high blood pressure. In women, there was a slight increase in the levels of health-promoting high-density lipoprotein (HDL). The researchers stated that these effects “may support research showing the relationship between high vitamin C intake and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke.”

In our efforts to reduce the risk of heart disease, regular exercise plays an important role in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Oxygen-rich blood flow to the tissues is an important part of this process, but it also causes the formation of free radicals. It does not mean that we have to completely remove exercise from our lives to prevent free radical formation. Many studies show that vitamin C supplements may work against free radical formation due to intense exercise.

NEW DISCOVERED BENEFITS OF VITAMIN C

Respiratory Diseases

A wide range of well-designed studies show that taking regular vitamin C supplements can reduce the frequency and duration of catching a cold.

Cancer

Promising studies show that vitamin C, along with other antioxidant and anti-inflammatory supplements, is also beneficial in fighting cancer.

Diabetes

Studies in humans show that vitamin C supplements can help lower blood glucose levels in people with diabetes. In addition, it provides a decrease in low density lipoprotein (LDL) levels.

Stomach Health

Taking vitamin C supplements may protect against oxidative damage committed by the bacteria Helicobacter pylori. This bacterium is known to cause gastritis and stomach ulcers. Taking vitamin C can also reduce the amount of antibiotics used against this bacterium and directly have a protective effect against the gastritis it causes. Also, high vitamin C levels are associated with a lower risk of stomach cancer in the long term.

Although vitamin C is generally known to be safe and well tolerated, we still find it useful to make a few reminders. Those with hematological disorders such as thalassemia, anemia, or glucose-6-phosphate deficiency should consult a doctor before using vitamin C. Pregnant women and nursing mothers should consult their doctor in the same way about vitamin C supplements.

Foods with Vitamin C

• Black currant
• Red pepper
• Kiwi
• Green bell pepper
• Orange
• Strawberry
• Papaya
• Broccoli
• Parsley
• Pineapple
• Brussels sprouts
• Cauliflower
• Mango
• Lemon
• Grapefruit
• Pea
• Tomato