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Nutrition & Diet
Question #25567
45 days ago
86

what is vitamin c - #25567

Priya

I am trying to figure out what is vitamin c and why it seems so important lately. Last month, I got a nasty cold that just wouldn't go away, and a friend suggested I up my vitamin C intake. I googled what is vitamin C and found tons of info about how it boosts the immune system and helps with skin health too. But like, what exactly is it? I took some of those fizzy vitamin C tablets, but I feel more confused now than before! My doctor mentioned something about how not all vitamin C is created equal, which made me wonder if I’m getting the right kind. I saw stuff about natural sources like oranges and broccoli, and also those synthetic options. Does that mean different sources have different effects? And why do I keep hearing buzz about how vitamin C can help with everything from colds to skin glow? Am I supposed to be taking it daily or just when I feel sick? Should I worry about getting too much of it or is that not such a big deal? Any advice on what is vitamin C in a simple way, or what I should do moving forward would be super helpful!

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Doctors' responses

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is an essential nutrient your body needs to function properly. It’s best known for its role in supporting your immune system, hence why it tends to come up a lot during cold and flu season. Besides this, vitamin C is crucial for the synthesis of collagen, which is important for skin, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels. This explains why it’s often linked to skin health—it helps in repairing tissues and maintaining a healthy glow. While both natural sources (like oranges, strawberries, and broccoli) and synthetic supplements (such as fizzy tablets) provide vitamin C, they are essentially the same compound chemically. Your body recognizes both forms similarly, meaning they have the same effect whether you get them from food or tablets. However, getting vitamin C from a balanced diet is recommended due to the additional nutrients present in whole foods that aid absorption and general well-being. For most people, the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of vitamin C is achievable through a healthy diet without the need for supplements. You may not need to take it daily unless directed by healthcare advice, particularly if you maintain a nutrient-rich diet. Keep in mind, high doses of vitamin C can lead to gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea or stomach cramps, so moderation is key. Generally, the body “flushes” out excess vitamin C because it’s water-soluble, but consistently high intakes isn’t advisable. If you’re looking for a daily dose, aim for 65 to 90 mg daily unless otherwise advised by a healthcare professional especially since high doses above 2000 mg are discouraged. In terms of upping your intake when you’re sick, some studies suggest it might reduce the duration of colds slightly but it doesn’t necessarily prevent them. As always, a varied diet rich in fruits and vegetables is the best way forward for ensuring optimal vitamin C intake.

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