5 THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT VITAMIN C

By Amy Gilbert, Naturopath, Flannerys Organic & Wholefood Market

We all know that Vitamin C can be great for boosting our immune system and reducing the incidence of colds and flus, but what else is it used for?

Did you know?

1. Vitamin C can help with iron absorption, particularly non-heme (plant based) sources of iron. Do this simple nutrition tip to help your vitamin C absorption. Have these high in vitamin C foods – tomato, capsicum, berries, acai and camu camu, with these high in iron sourced foods – kale, baby spinach and other dark leafy greens or greens powder. We recommend: Nutra Organics Super Greens + Reds.
2. It can be great for your skin! Vitamin C may assist in wound healing and with the synthesis of collagen, maintaining skin elasticity. Combined with zinc, vitamin C is great for acne prone skin. We recommend: Fusion Zinc Advanced or Herbs of Gold vitamin C 1000
3. Vitamin C can be a powerful antioxidant and help neutralise free radicals in the body (caused by pollution and toxins among other things), this may assist to reduce the risk of chronic disease.
4. It can be good for your heart. Vitamin C can increase vasodilation, in turn reducing blood pressure and the risk of cardiovascular disease.
5. Vitamin C is water soluble and will deteriorate with heating, cooking and soaking. Food being consumed for its Vitamin C content should be eaten fresh and raw whenever possible.

Whole food is always a great way to get your daily dose of vitamin C but we also recommend supplementation for an added boost, especially with the upcoming winter months (flu season).

We also love:

• Blooms Natural C Powder (Acerola Cherry)
• Fusion Vitamin C 1000 Advanced (with Elderflower) 60 Chewable tablets
• Loving Earth Camu Camu Powder

Speak with our qualified Naturopath’s instore for more advice on the best supplements for you this cold and flu season. You can book in for a free 15 minute advice session with our naturopaths via our website.

This article is for educational purposes only. Always seek health advice from your healthcare professional.