Vitamin C or L-ascorbic acid is an essential nutrient for humans, a large number of higher primate species, a small number of other mammalian species (notably guinea pigs and bats), a few species of birds, and some fish. It is one of the most important nutrients in the human body.

The best-known use of vitamin C, other than a cure for colds, is as an antioxidant. Vitamin C has been linked as a cure for everything from diabetes, to cancer, as well as the common cold. It is important for the creation of collagen, which is found in bones and ligaments, blood vessels and tendons. It is also important in the creation of neurotransmitters, which have an effect on both brain function and mood. Vitamin C helps reduce cholesterol and gallstones, as well as in the synthesis of carnitine, used to convert fat to energy.

Hundreds of studies, including the work of two-time Nobel Prize winner Linus Pauling, strongly support the vital role of vitamin C in the body and suggest that the vitamin’s antioxidant properties may have benefits that are not yet understood. Be amazed with Vitamin C as you read more of this article.

Diabetes

Researchers at the Addenbrooke Hospital in England looked at blood levels of vitamin C in medical records of many individuals. They discovered that those with the highest rate of vitamin C in their blood had a 22 percent lower incidence of diabetes.

Cancer

A National Institute of Health study reported that vitamin C was not preventative with cancer, but that research studied oral intake of the vitamin, and the body can process vitamin C only in small amounts. When research is done on vitamin C given by injections, both tumor growth and weight were reduced by 53 percent in 75 percent of the cancers in mice, from ovarian, pancreatic and brain. Cancers particularly decreased by the intake of vitamin C are those in the mouth, throat, vocal chords, stomach, rectum, colon, esophagus, and lungs.

Heart Disease

A study showed that cardiovascular diseases were reduced by 42 percent in men who consumed 50 mg a day of vitamin C. These results were lower in women, only 25 percent.

Stroke Risk

A Japanese study conducted on over 2,000 participants showed a 54 percent lower risk of stroke in those who consumed fruits and vegetables on six or seven days per week. Those who only ate vegetables from 0 to 2 times a week were more at risk for stroke. Another study conducted over a 10-year period on 20,000 adults showed similar results. The risk of stroke on the vegetable eaters was lower by 42 percent.

Cataracts

Cataracts, too, can be prevented with vitamin C intake. A seven-year study concluded that 500 mg a day prevented cataract formation.

The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for vitamin C is currently only 90 mg a day for adults. Prevention of chronic disease requires higher levels of vitamin C consumption. Since vitamin C is not stored in the blood, it is best to divide the dose and take it multiple times throughout the day. Considering the low cost of supplemental, or a small piece of citrus fruit, there is every reason to add a few servings of fruit and vegetables to the daily diet.