29/03/2018
Vitamin series: Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, has several important functions.
These include:
- helping to protect cells and keeps them healthy
maintaining healthy skin, blood vessels, bones and cartilage
- helping with wound healing
- Lack of vitamin C can lead to scurvy. Mild deficiencies may occur in infants given unsupplemented cows' milk and in people with poor or very restricted diets.
Vitamin C's Role in the Body:
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is necessary for the growth, development and repair of all body tissues. It's involved in many body functions, including formation of collagen, absorption of iron, the immune system, wound healing, and the maintenance of cartilage, bones, and teeth.
Vitamin C is one of many antioxidants that can protect against damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals, as well as toxic chemicals and pollutants like cigarette smoke. Free radicals can build up and contribute to the development of health conditions such as cancer, heart disease, and arthritis.
Food rich in Vitamin C:
The foods richest in vitamin C are citrus fruits, green peppers, strawberries, tomatoes, broccoli, white potatoes, and sweet potatoes. Other good sources include dark leafy greens, cantaloupe, papaya, mango, watermelon, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, cabbage, red peppers, raspberries, blueberries, winter squash, and pineapples.
Here are eight easy ways to work more fruits and veggies into your diet each day:
1.Add pureed or grated fruits and veggies to recipes for muffins, meatloaf, and soups.
2.Keep cut-up fruits and veggies on hand so they are ready for a quick snack.
3.Frozen fruit slices make a cool summer treat.
4.Include dark lettuce, tomatoes, and shredded broccoli slaw on all your sandwiches and wraps.
5.Eat raw veggies with hummus, low-fat dips, and salsas.
6.Add fresh or frozen berries to muffins, pancakes, cereal, and salads.
7.Throw a handful of dried fruit on top of your cereal or in a baggie with nuts for an easy snack.
8.Enjoy a glass of vegetable juice as a filling and low-calorie mid-afternoon snack.