What is vitamin C?
Vitamin C or ascorbic acid, is a water soluble vitamin. It is a non-caloric organic substance, not produced by our body and which has been recognised since antiquity, but was actually discovered many centuries later. It is one of the essential vitamins and minerals we need. In fact, during maritime voyages, sailors who were stationed for long periods on ships felt progressively sick. They would first lose their teeth and hair, then their gums would bleed, they would emit a foul odor, with extreme symptoms to the point that they sometimes died.
These ships were only stocked with dried or salted products because they could be kept for a long time. Since seasonal fruits and vegetables were not loaded in the boats, the sailors’ diets were therefore deprived of vitamin C. It was not until the mid-18th century that it was realized that it was quite adequate simply to add lemons and oranges on board, to keep sailors healthy. Then, at the beginning of the 20th century, vitamin C was identified.
Vitamin C is involved in the metabolism of bones and it also takes care of the integrity and elasticity of the skin, mucous membranes and blood vessels. Despite its abundance in the human body, the opposite happens in mammals whose bodies produces vitamin C.
As far as our body is concerned, it is thanks to certain foods that we are able to obtain it. After absorption, it is then distributed to the spleen, the liver, the endocrine glands and finally to the brain.
How do you know if you have a vitamin C deficiency?
The lack of vitamin cannot always be easily perceived. In addition, certain signs of fatigue can also give pointers to a deficiency in vitamin C. Here are 6:
Do you get sick very often?
When you are lacking in vitamin C, your body suffers from immune deficiency. The T lymphocytes which allow us to escape diseases are less present and therefore less effective which makes you more vulnerable to colds and flu which are the most frequent diseases.
Do you have joint and muscle pain?
It is common for joints and muscles to suffer. This is characterized by the development of inflammation such as tendonitis but also an increased risk of muscle or tendon tears.
Your nose is bleeding for no reason
The blood capillaries are weakened. By being so weakened, your vessels risk rupture at any time. This is when the nosebleeds start.
Do you have bleeding gums?
Beautiful teeth are synonymous with good health. For adults and children alike, the gum tissue is often affected if you are deficient in Vitamin C. This is characterized by swelling around n your teeth.
The bleeding also comes back very often. It usually happens when the gum is in contact with something. However, this can happen for no apparent reason.
Do you have poor circulation?
As mentioned, vitamin C acts on the blood vessels. It guarantees their elasticity. On the other hand, vitamin C promotes the resistance of your hair tissue.
The reasons for a vitamin C deficiency?
Our metabolism is subjected to factors which are responsible for our vitamin C deficiency which we name here:
Age: The older we get, the more vitamin C we need.
Gender: vitamin C requirements concern both men and women.
Smoking: smoke introduces chemical molecules which are synthesized in organic cells during reactions with oxygen. This increases the need for vitamin C in smokers.
Sport: During a physical effort, the body expends a lot of energy, therefore it needs to increase its vitamin intake and mainly vitamin C.
