Vitamin C Importance

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble compound similar to glucose. Although fairly stable in acidic solution, it is usually the least stable of the vitamins and is very sensitive to light, heat and air, which stimulate the activity of oxidative enzymes. A very important function of the vitamin C is to maintain activity in the collagen, a protein necessary for the formation of the connective tissue of the skin, ligaments and bones. Vitamin C plays an important role in the healing of wounds and burns because it facilitates the formation of connective scar tissue. The arterial wall cells need collagen to expand and contract with the heartbeat; even the capillaries need it because they are more fragile. Another important property …show more content…
It also contributes to the formation of red blood cells and prevents bleeding. Also it fights bacterial infections and reduces the effects of certain substances causing allergies. For these reasons, vitamin C is often used in the prevention and treatment of the common cold. It was found that vitamin C acts as an antihistamine and can be used to reduce the doses of the medicinal form. Food sources of vitamin C are especially fruits and vegetables, particularly citrus fruits such as oranges. Vitamin C has significant relationships with other nutrients. It contributes to the metabolism of certain amino acids such as phenylalanine and tyrosine which become hormones. The vitamin C can have a significant role in the metabolism of calcium and iron. It also protects the thiamine, riboflavin, folic acid, pantothenic acid, vitamin A and E from oxidation. It protects the brain and spinal cord from destruction by free radicals. Studies on vitamin C as a cancer treatment continue, but there is already evidence regarding the protective effect of vitamin C against some types of cancer, in large population …show more content…
It 'was recently discovered that the elderly and those suffering from chronic diseases together with alcoholics form a group of more vulnerable people to scurvy. Serious deficiencies cause scurvy in any person. The people with cancer, those who suffer from dental disease, orthopedic or dialysis are all exposed to deficiencies of vitamin C. In the case of deficiency the skin becomes rough, dry and scaly. Bone endings will soften and become painful, malformations occur which can cause imbalances in the growth and fractures. Heavy bleeding in the joints and cavities of the body can result in