If there’s one vitamin that is almost present in every home, it could be Vitamin C. This essential vitamin cannot be produced by our body, but can be found in several plants and fruits, including strawberries, broccoli, bell pepper, kiwi, spinach, kale, and oranges, among others. But while vitamin C can be derived from a number of natural food, many turn into food supplements for their daily intake of this wonder vitamin.

The following benefits of vitamin C are scientifically proven.

Fights Chronic Diseases

Free radicals are harmful molecules that may accumulate in our body over a long period. This can lead into a state called oxidative stress which is known to result in many choric diseases. Being a powerful antioxidant, vitamin C can bolster our bodies’ natural defenses by triggering our immune system. This can help lower the risk of heart disease and other chronic diseases.

Our immune system gets a boost by taking vitamin C regularly as it can help lymphocytes to function more efficiently and induce faster would healing.

Helps Manage High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is a common precursor of heart disease, which is the most common cause of death worldwide. It was found out in a study that vitamin C lowered both the systolic and diastolic blood pressure in healthy adults. Moreover, the study showed that both the systole and the diastole are reduced in adults with high blood pressure.

Reduces Uric Acid in Blood

Too much uric acid may trigger gout symptoms. When uric acid crystalize and deposit in joints, painful joints can be the result. Vitamin C can reduce uric acid in the blood as shown in studies. It can also lower the risk of gout by 44%.

Helps Prevent Iron Deficiency

Anemia is a form of iron deficiency. Such can be prevented with regular vitamin C intake as it can help in the absorption of iron by the body. This especially true with iron from plant-based sources. If you are on a no-meat diet, it is important that you take vitamin C.

Protects Memory as You Age

Dementia is one of the dreaded conditions of old age. In studies, it was shown that those with lower vitamin C have increased loss of memory. In contrast, those with higher levels of vitamin C have better memory.

With these health of vitamin C, everyone should be compelled to try to have the recommended daily intake of 90 mg for men and 75 mg for women. If vitamin C-rich fruits and vegetables are out of season, at least there are supplements to turn to.