Vitamin C and Joint Health
Vitamin C or ascorbic acid is essential for the body to function normally.
Vitamin C is needed for the growth and repair of tissue as it forms the proteins necessary to produce skin, blood vessels, tendons, and ligaments. It also helps maintain teeth, bones, and cartilage.
When the body breaks down food or is exposed to radiation or tobacco, it creates free radicals. Studies show that the buildup of these free radicals is responsible for the aging process and may lead to arthritis, heart disease, and cancer. Vitamin C is an antioxidant and blocks some of the damage caused by free radicals.
Citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits are excellent sources of vitamin C. Other fruits rich in vitamin C include cantaloupe, kiwi, pineapple, mango, berries, and watermelon.
Vitamin C friendly vegetables include red and green chili peppers, guava, dark leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and white squash.
Some foods and beverages are fortified with vitamin C. Fortified means a vitamin or mineral has been added to the food. Always check product labels to see how much vitamin C is in a product.
There are also many natural health supplements available that contain vitamin C.
|
|
|
