Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that your body requires to form collagen in bones, cartilage, muscle, and blood vessels, according to MayoClinic.com. Vitamin C also aids in the absorption of iron. Since your body does not make vitamin C, you can add Vitamin C powder to to a number of drinks in order to reap the benefits of vitamin C.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful tool in increasing the functionality of the immune system. According to the book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing" by Dr. James F. Balch, your body cannot make vitamin C on its own. Vitamin C must be obtained by the nutrients found in your diet or by taking a vitamin C supplement.
Foods Rich in Vitamin C
MayoClinic.com suggests the best sources of vitamin C include colored fruits. Strawberries, oranges and apples are all good sources of vitamin C. You can also consume vitamin C by eating green peppers and broccoli.
Vitamin C Powder
Vitamin C powder is a fine white powder with a tart taste. You can generally purchase Vitamin C powder in a health food store or via Internet shopping. One of the most popular brands of Vitamin C powder is EmergenC. You can add Vitamin C powder to your favorite juices, water or other low-calorie drinks.
Dieting with Vitamin C Powder
The vitamin C diet is a flexible diet plan that you can complete in one of two ways. You can choose a fasting diet, where you will just drink juices to which you have added vitamin C powder. Additionally, you have the choice of drinking products mixed with vitamin C powder combined with a healthy, well-balanced diet. When trying to lose weight, you should ensure you are getting the appropriate vitamins and nutrients. Often times, the best way to do this is to eat small, healthy meals. Consult a physician or nutritionist to ensure you are getting all the vital nutrition your body needs.
Benefits
According to "Healthy Healing" written by Dr. Linda Page, a doctor specializing in natural health, vitamin C is an important antioxidant. Vitamin C aids in boosting the immune system, protects against free radicals, helps to protect against infection, aids the adrenal gland, alleviates heart disease and can help to reduce allergy symptoms. It also helps the body fight off environmental ailments, including pollution. Vitamin C also helps to fight the signs of aging, ensures gum health and helps wounds to heal.
Recommendations
As with any diet, consult your doctor before beginning a vitamin C diet. Also consult your physician if you are concerned you are not getting enough vitamin C. A severe deficiency of vitamin C can cause scurvy. This condition is rare; however, it can be life-threatening. According to Dr. James Balch, it is recommended that you take vitamin C twice a day opposed to all at once.
Effectiveness
According to MayoClinic.com, there are many proposed uses of vitamin C. However, few scientific research studies have found these claims to be beneficial. Research in asthma, cancer, diabetes and cataracts remain inconclusive.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Vitamin C (asorbic acid)
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch, MD and Phyllis A. Balch; 1997
- "Healthy Healing"; Linda Page; 2000
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