If you haven’t realized it by now, YOU NEED VITAMINS. Micronutrients have the same effect on your cells as putting soothing lotion on dry skin. See, Your cells soak them up and make them feel fresh and rejuvenated.

Vitamin C, also called ascorbic acid, must be consumed from food or supplements because our bodies cannot produce it. This nutrient is found in a number of fruits and vegetables, namely: asparagus, avocados, berries, broccoli, brussel sprouts, cantaloupe, citrus fruits, collards, greens, kale, onions, potatoes, red chili peppers and turnips.

This water-soluble vitamin is essential for many bodily systems to function properly. Studies have also shown it to positively effect the body in the following ways:

• Wound Healing
• Collagen Production
• Iron Absorption
• Increases HDL
• Lower Triglycerides
• Lower Blood Pressure
• Powerful Antioxidant
• Increases Immune Function
• Contains Antiviral and Antibacterial Properties

Symptoms of Vitamin C deficiency include:

• Cardiovascular Disease
• Easy Bruising
• Fatigue
• Frequent Infections
• Impaired Wound Healing
• Joint Pain
• Scurvy

Causes of Vitamin C Deficiency:

• Alcohol
• Analgesics
• Antidepressants
• Antibiotics
• Birth Control Pills
• Diabetes
• Painkillers
• Smoking
• Stress

An extremely interesting fact about Vitamin C (okay, I find it interesting) is that glucose and Vitamin C COMPETE to enter your cells because they enter thru the same pathway. That being said, don’t drink orange juice to get your daily supply of Vitamin C because glucose will win, leaving your cells deficient in Vitamin C…crazy!

How much do you need, though? The RDA’s suggest consuming between 75-90mg of Vitamin C a day. These levels are only adequate to ward off scurvy and nowhere near optimal. To reach optimal levels, adults should consume 1,000 to 5,000mg daily. However, because Vitamin C is water-soluble and leaves the body quickly, the doses should be divided and taken twice a day.

Remembering that not all supplements are created equal, I recommend getting your Vitamin C from one of these companies: Pure Encapsulations, Douglas Labs or DaVinci Laboratories.

These Statements are not intended to heal, prevent or treat any illnesses or diseases. If you are pregnant or nursing, always ask your doctor before starting any new supplements. If you are taking any medications, always ask your doctor before starting any new supplements