Importance of vitamin C in the human body
Abstract
The recognition of vitamin C is associated with a history of a relentless search for the cause of the ancient hemorrhagic disease of scurvy. Isolated in 1928, vitamin C is essential for the development and maintenance of connective tissues. It plays an important role in bone formation, wound healing, and maintaining healthy gums. Vitamin C plays an important role in several metabolic functions, including the activation of the B vitamin, folic acid, the conversion of cholesterol into bile acids, and the conversion of the amino acid, tryptophan, into the neurotransmitter, serotonin. It is an antioxidant that protects the body against free radical damage. It is used as a therapeutic agent in many diseases and disorders. Vitamin C protects the immune system, reduces the severity of allergic reactions, and helps fight infections. However, the importance and beneficial effect of vitamin C on human diseases such as cancer, atherosclerosis, diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases, and metal toxicity remain equivocal. Thus, further continuous and uninterrupted efforts may open new insights into understanding its importance in disease management.
Vitamin C, Atherosclerosis, Diabetes, Immunity, Cancer, Infertility, Heavy metal toxicity.
Introduction
An antioxidant, vitamin C works to shield your cells from the damaging effects of free radicals, which are chemicals your body produces as it breaks down food, is exposed to tobacco smoke, or is exposed to radiation from the sun, X-rays, or other sources. Heart disease, cancer, and other diseases could be impacted by free radicals. Additionally, iron storage and absorption are aided by vitamin C. Vitamin C is required by the body for its typical physiological processes.
Tyrosine, folic acid, tryptophan, glycine, proline, lysine, carnitine, and catecholamine synthesis and metabolism are all aided by it. It makes it easier for cholesterol to be converted into bile acids, which decreases blood cholesterol levels. Converting ferric to ferrous also improves intestinal absorption of iron. Vitamin C must come from your diet because your body cannot generate it.
Could reduce your chance of chronic illness. Your blood's antioxidant levels can rise thanks to the potent antioxidant vitamin C. This can lower the risk of developing chronic illnesses like heart disease.
Unproven claims about vitamin C
Prevents the common cold.
Reduces cancer risk.
Protects against eye disease.
May treat lead toxicity.
The body needs vitamin C for various functions. Here are a few:
• It helps the body produce collagen, L-carnitine, and certain neurotransmitters.
• As an antioxidant, it helps eliminate unwanted substances known as reactive oxidative species (ROS) from the body.
• It helps the body to absorb iron.
• It strengthens the immune system.
• It improves wound healing.
Vitamin C is required by the body to create collagen. It makes up 1% to 2% of muscle tissue and is the primary component of connective tissue.
Collagen is an essential part of fibrous tissues like:
• Tissues
• cavities
• skin
• a cornea
• The cartilage
• bone
• the digestive tract
• vascular systems
Can vitamin C be used to treat a cold?
The widespread belief that vitamin C may treat colds has not been supported by research. However, those who engage in vigorous exercise, are exposed to cold conditions, or have low vitamin C levels as a result of smoking may benefit from taking doses of 200 mg or more each day.
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