Vitamin C

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is an important vitamin for general health. Because it is water soluble, the body cannot store the vitamin, so you must be certain to get enough daily, through either your diet or supplements. Vitamin C, a critical component of both basic body-building functions and disease prevention, is needed for the growth and repair of tissues in all parts of the body.

Vitamin C is essential for the healing of wounds and the repair and maintenance of cartilage, bones, and teeth. During any kind of healing process, whether from infection, injury, disease, or surgery, the body uses large amounts of vitamin C. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can help block damage from free radicals. Recent research indicates that vitamin C and vitamin E work synergistically, having a greater effect together than separately. Vitamin C also increases the absorption of iron.

Research into the therapeutic uses of vitamin C is ongoing. Studies show promise for the use of vitamin C in protecting against a number of conditions. Evidence from human studies indicates that though vitamin C will not cure these conditions, it may help prevent their initial onset or slow progression.

Vitamin C is critical to the production of collagen, a protein that binds cells together and is the building block of connective tissues throughout the body. It is also an immune system booster that increases white blood cell production.