I Need My Vitamin C

The weather is crazy and I need my vitamin C. But which Vitamin C should I use?

Types of Vitamin C

Many of us are not aware that there are different types of Vitamin C sold in the market today. Some think that because it is a Vitamin C then it should be sufficient. However, you should wisely choose the supplements you buy because it may not be the ideal vitamin for you.

Ascorbic Acid

Ascorbic Acid is the safest and most recommended form of Vitamin C. It can be taken through mouth or directly applied to the skin. However, beware of possible heartburn, headache, and nauseas with higher doses of this vitamin. The recommended dose varies, but taking 1000mg to 2000mg a day is ideal. It is safe for pregnant and breastfeeding parents, but be sure to follow the recommended amount prescribed by your doctor. Moreover, it is perfect for slow oxidizer, sympathetic, mixed oxidizer, and balanced types of bodies.

Calcium Ascorbate

This is the calcium salt found in Ascorbic Acid. It is a good source of calcium and Vitamin C but is not generally given as a health supplement. It is ideal for parasympathetic and fast oxidizer types of bodies or those with a fast metabolism rate.

Note: You will know if you are a fast oxidizer if you easily digest the food that you eat. This means you easily convert the food into energy. If you wish to have a more accurate result, you may try using this questionnaire through

http://www.naturalhealthyellowpages.com/metabolic/self_test.html

Sodium Ascorbate

This is a water soluble Vitamin C that is less acidic so it can be eaten even on an empty stomach. Those suffering from ulcer will benefit from this type of Vitamin C because it will not create and stomach burn.

Benefits of Vitamin C

Below is a list of the many benefits of regular Vitamin C intake:

1. helps in the detoxification of the body
2. promotes faster healing of cells
3. helps deal with stress
4. promotes growth of good bacteria
5. helps destroy harmful virus and bacteria
6. removes heavy metals stored in the body through food you eat
7. protects as from the harmful effects of pollution
8. helps neutralize the harmful effects of free radicals

Natural Sources of Vitamin C

Vitamin C cannot be manufactured by the body so it has to be taken from the foods we eat. Below are the following foods reach in Vitamin C.

1.      rose hips

2.      chili peppers

3.      parsley

4.      broccoli

5.      cherries

6.      citrus fruits

7.      kiwi fruit

Signs of Vitamin C Insufficiency

If your body shows the following signs, then it is time to get into the habit of taking your regular dose of Vitamin C to help improve your immune system:

“1.Fatigue – Early on, someone with a vitamin C deficiency will tend to get tired easily and experience reduced energy. Because chronic fatigue is a symptom of so many illnesses, it can be hard to catch a specific condition based on this symptom.

 2.Mood Changes – Individuals with a vitamin C deficiency may become irritable or short tempered.

 3.Weight Loss – As with other “wasting conditions” someone with a vitamin C deficiency may experience sudden weight loss.

 4.Joint and Muscle Aches – Chronic pain in the limbs or joints can be a symptom of a vitamin deficiency.

5.Bruising – Individuals with a vitamin C deficiency will tend to bruise easily. Excessive bruising is a sign that the body’s chemistry needs to be improved.

 6.Dental Conditions – Just as a healthy daily dose of vitamin C contributes to healthy teeth and gums, a deficiency can cause deterioration of the gums. Periodontal problems are a symptom of a vitamin C deficiency that has been allowed to develop to a hazardous level. This kind of deficiency was classically called "scurvy" when it happened to mariners who had no access to nutrients (or sometimes even fresh water) on long trips at sea. In today’s world, it is a rare but frightening condition.

 7.Dry Hair and Skin – A change in hair and skin conditions can also signal that the body is not getting enough of vitamin C and other essential vitamins and minerals.

 8.Infections – When an individual does not have enough vitamin C over time, this can have a negative impact on general healing of wounds and the fighting of infections. Generally, the body’s immune system will be compromised.”

Source: http://www.fitday.com/fitness-articles/nutrition/vitamins-minerals/8-symptoms-of-vitamin-c-deficiency.html

These are my sources of Vitamin C, aside from my regular spoonful of chili sauce made especially for me by Ate Knoll (miss you guys).

Power C and Puritan's Pride

Stay fit. Take your dose of Vitamin C daily.