Vitamin C helps to treat much more than the common cold. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that reduces the effects of free radicals on the body. In addition, vitamin C supports the healthy synthesizing of cells and helps to boost the immune system. A lack of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, during childhood can affect the child's growth and development and contribute to health issues such as vision problems. The National Institutes of Health advises that a deficiency of vitamin C can lead to weakening of the capillaries in all parts of the body, including the eyes.
Vision Problems
A deficiency of vitamin C during childhood can lead to vision problems, and if untreated can lead to the development of eye-related illnesses over time. According to the National Institutes of Health, a vitamin C deficiency can lead to the development of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. Macular degeneration is a chronic illness that causes loss of vision in the center of the eye. Cataracts are a medical condition characterized by a clouding of the eye lens, which makes it difficult to see.
Recommended Intake
The National Institutes of Health recommends that children between the ages of 9 and 13 consume at least 45 mg of vitamin C each day. Teenage boys aged 14 to 18 should increase their vitamin C intake to 75 mg per day and teenage girls in this age range should increase their vitamin C intake to 65 mg per day.
Sources
Vitamin C is easily attainable through the consumption of foods. Citrus fruit such as oranges and grapefruit contain some of the highest concentrations of vitamin C. Red or green bell peppers, kiwifruit and broccoli are also good sources. Determine which sources of vitamin C your child likes and incorporate them into his regular diet.
Preventative Health
In addition to consuming adequate amounts of vitamin C, schedule an annual visit for your child to have a vision examination. This helps to identify any potential or existing vision problems. Early treatment is key to preventing long-term vision damage.
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