Cortisol is a hormone that is produced in the body's adrenal glands. It is released during times of exercise, eating, awakening and stress. During these processes, cortisol is responsible for energy regulation, but too much cortisol has been linked to a weakened immune system and excess fat storage. To help deal with stress and reduce the negative impact that excess cortisol production can have on your body, increase your vitamin C intake. Vitamin C is said to block the release of cortisol and reduce cortisol levels.
Step 1
Purchase a quality vitamin C supplement from a known supplier or trusted health food store. The daily recommended intake of vitamin C for adults is 75 to 90mg, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements at the National Institutes of Health. However, in the study reported by "Psychology Today," the effective dose was 1000mg daily, and the ODS at NIH states that up to 2000mg per day is within the safe range for adults. Take your vitamin C supplement as directed by manufacturer.
Step 2
Split your vitamin C intake up throughout the day. The Vitamin C Foundation reports that taking vitamin C in the morning and evening helps consistently keep the levels in your blood at higher concentrations. Spreading your intake out throughout the day can also help prevent intestinal discomfort, which can occur as a result of high vitamin C intake.
Step 3
Add vitamin C-rich foods to your diet. Food sources are not limited to oranges, grapefruit and lemons. Other foods high in vitamin C are strawberries, cantaloupe, potatoes, tomatoes and broccoli. Heat can destroy some vitamin C content, so enjoy your broccoli and tomatoes raw or increase the vitamin C-rich fruits you consume.
Tips and Warnings
- If you smoke, you need extra vitamin C, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements at the National Institutes of Health. Smokers need more vitamin C because the body uses it up repairing damage caused by smoking.
- Vitamin C may interact with certain prescription drugs, such as cholesterol medication or chemotherapy. Speak to your physician before taking extra vitamin C, especially if you are currently on medications.
Things You'll Need
- Vitamin C supplement
- Foods high in Vitamin C
