What is Vitamin C? What is ascorbic acid?
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, performs many important functions in our body. A good deal of Vitamin C's usefulness seems to come from its role as an antioxidant. In this role, Vitamin C prevents the free radical damage that contributes to aging and aging related diseases, including cancer and cardiovascular disorders. In addition, ascorbic acid prevents other antioxidant vitamins, including Vitamin A and E, from being oxidized, keeping them potent.
Vitamin C plays a major role in the immune system, by enhancing immunity. There is growing evidence that it helps increase resistance to a range of diseases, including infections and cancers.
Vitamin C Food Sources:
Citrus fruits
Peppers
Guavas
Brocooli
Brussels sprouts
Cabbage
Papaya
Kiwi
Vitamin C is found mainly in plants. In fact, the only plants that do not contain vitamin C are grains, dried peas and dried beans. You get more vitamin C from fresh, raw foods than cooked ones, because Vitamin C is easily destroyed when it is heated or stored.
Source:
The Real Vitamin & Mineral Book- Using Supplements for Optimal Health (2nd Edition), by Dr. Shari Lieberman, PhD and Nancy Bruning. Published by Avery Publishing Group, New York in 1997.
Related Links:
Vitamin C Reduces Risk of Death from Dr. Mercola's website www.mercola.com
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