Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a vital role in our body’s immune system, collagen production, and overall health. While vitamin C is found in many fruits and vegetables, some individuals may still need extra vitamin C due to various factors. In this blog, we will explore the reasons why you may need extra vitamin C and how it can benefit your health.
Smoking
Smoking is a harmful habit that can damage your health in various ways, including depleting your body’s vitamin C levels. Cigarette smoke contains harmful chemicals that can lead to oxidative stress, which can lower vitamin C levels in the body. Moreover, smoking can also affect the absorption of vitamin C from foods, making it even harder to maintain adequate levels of this essential vitamin.
If you are a smoker, you may need extra vitamin C to compensate for the reduced levels in your body. Research suggests that smokers need at least 35 mg of extra vitamin C per day compared to non-smokers to maintain optimal health.
Stress
Stress is a common problem that can affect our mental and physical health in various ways. When we are stressed, our body releases cortisol, a hormone that can increase inflammation and reduce the body's vitamin C levels. Moreover, stress can also lead to oxidative damage, which can further deplete the body's vitamin C stores.
If you are under a lot of stress, you may need extra vitamin C to help your body cope with the increased demands. Vitamin C can help reduce inflammation, boost the immune system, and protect against oxidative stress, all of which can benefit your health during times of stress.
Illness or injury
When we are sick or injured, our body’s immune system works harder to fight off the infection or heal the injury. This increased demand for energy and nutrients can deplete the body's vitamin C levels, making it harder for the immune system to function optimally.
If you are recovering from an illness or injury, you may need extra vitamin C to help your body heal faster. Vitamin C is essential for collagen production, which is a critical component of wound healing. Moreover, vitamin C can also help boost the immune system, reducing the risk of infections and speeding up the recovery process.
Poor diet
While vitamin C is found in many fruits and vegetables, some individuals may not consume enough of these foods to meet their daily vitamin C requirements. A diet lacking in fruits and vegetables can lead to vitamin C deficiency, which can have various health consequences.
If you have a poor diet, you may need extra vitamin C to ensure that your body gets the nutrients it needs to function optimally. Vitamin C supplements can be a convenient way to increase your vitamin C intake and maintain optimal health.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
During pregnancy and breastfeeding, the body requires higher levels of nutrients to support the growing foetus and nourish the baby. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in foetal development and immune system function. Moreover, breastfeeding mothers need to maintain adequate vitamin C levels to ensure that their baby gets enough of this essential nutrient.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you may need extra vitamin C to support your baby's health and development. The recommended daily intake of vitamin C during pregnancy and breastfeeding is 85 mg and 120 mg, respectively.
Age
As we age, our body's ability to absorb and utilize nutrients decreases, making it harder to maintain optimal vitamin C levels. Moreover, older adults are more susceptible to infections and chronic diseases, making it even more crucial to maintain adequate vitamin C levels.
If you are an older adult, you may need extra vitamin C to support your immune system, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and maintain overall health.
Always check in with your healthcare provider when considering taking additional vitamins.
