National Vitamin C Day: Benefits of consuming this nutrient

National Vitamin C Day is celebrated every year on April 4 to highlight the benefits of the vitamin known to cure allergies among other ailments.

It is found in citrus fruits which include orange, kiwifruit, lemon, and strawberry and in vegetables like tomatoes, potatoes, and leafy greens such as broccoli. It is considered an essential nutrient for producing neurotransmitters and repairing tissues.

Experts say that it has been known since 1912, when it became the first vitamin to be produced chemically.

Vitamin C can be increased through supplements also but experts suggest natural sources like fruits and vegetables.

Patriot got in touch with two experts – Dr Javaid Iqbal Khan, a Physician and Haematologist from Khyber Hospital, Srinagar and Priyanka Jaiswal, a dietician from diet2nourish clinic, New Delhi to understand the benefits of Vitamin C in our daily lives.

Increases immunity: Vitamin C helps in boosting immunity. It helps encourage the production of white blood cells known as lymphocytes and phagocytes, which help protect the body against infection.

Protects from chronic diseases: Vitamin C’s antioxidant properties may help lower the risk of several chronic ailments, including heart disease, cancer, cholesterol, diabetes and strokes.

Reduces gout attacks: Higher vitamin C intake is independently associated with a lower risk of gout. Gout is the most common type of inflammatory arthritis in men.

Iron absorption: Vitamin C helps in absorption of iron by converting it to its absorbable form, increasing available time for it, and improving non-heme iron uptake.

Fights seasonal allergies: It can help fight asthma and eczema which is caused by weather change. It does this by reducing inflammation and boosting the immune system. Getting vitamin C may help avoid allergic reactions. It also fights problems related to pollution.

Glowing skin: Vitamin C helps form and maintain bones, cartilage, skin, and blood vessels. It is an antioxidant which fights harmful toxins that come in contact with skin either externally or from inside the body. Antioxidants are thought to play a role in slowing the ageing process. The vitamin may also reduce damage to the lining of blood vessels, and reduce the risk of some types of cancer.