Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is vital for growth, development and repair of all body tissues. It's involved in many body functions, including formation of collagen, absorption of iron, the proper functioning of the immune system, wound healing, and the maintenance of cartilage, bones, and teeth. It is an antioxidant that protects body from free radical damage. It is used as therapeutic agent in many diseases and disorders. Vitamin C protects the immune system, reduces the severity of allergic reactions and helps to fight off infections (Chambial et al., 2013).
Vitamin C Stimulates Collagen Synthesis
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and plays a critical role in connective tissues like those found in our organs and of course our hair, skin, and nails. Vitamin C infused hydrogen molecule has anti-aging properties that led to increased collagen production and younger-looking skin. The increased collagen synthesis also means vitamin C helps in wound healing by means of growth, repair and development of body tissue (DePhillipo et al., 2018).
Its Antioxidant Properties Help Guard Against Chronic Disease
Antioxidants act to neutralize free radicals, which are volatile and harmful substances produced in the body that cause damage to cells and tissues. Antioxidants can protect against the development of serious health conditions, such as cancer or heart disease. They help widen the blood vessels and improve nitric oxide production. Thus, help reduce plaque instability in atherosclerosis and protect against heart disease and hypertension, or high blood pressure (Padayatty et al., 2003). Vitamin C strengthens immune system function and aids in allergic reaction Vitamin C was found to support the immune system by protecting against oxidative stress, aiding in microbial killing, and decreasing the potential for tissue damage. Moreover, during an allergic reaction, the immune system triggers an inflammatory response that can lead to symptoms such as swelling and hives. During this process, the body produces Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), which can lead to oxidative stress (Carr and Maggini, 2017).
Antioxidant-Rich Vitamin C Protects the Eyes
Vitamin C can lower the risk of developing cataracts and can also help slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). It serves as a strong antioxidant and protects proteins, lipids, and DNA from oxidative damage. Vitamin C is important to eye health because of its role in protecting the proteins of the crystalline lens from oxidation, in serving as a free radical scavenger in the retina, and in promoting wound healing in the cornea (Evans and Lawrenson, 2017).