How does vitamin C contribute to our immunity?
Vitamin C is known for many health benefits. For instance, this vitamin helps maintain and strengthen a healthy immune system and also acts as an antioxidant. Our body does not produce this vitamin itself, but we obtain it from many foods and supplements.1
Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is a nutrient that our body needs for many processes. But above all, this vitamin gives our immune system a boost. It naturally strengthens our organism against external attacks, especially in autumn and winter, when more pathogens are circulating.1,2
Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant
Antioxidants are molecules that strengthen our immune system by protecting cells from harmful molecules called free radicals. Smoking, UV rays, and pollution promote the production of free radicals in our organism. If they accumulate, they can lead to a state of 'oxidative stress', which is linked to many chronic conditions and other health problems.1
If you consume extra vitamin C, your blood can show up to 30% more antioxidants. With this vitamin, you can therefore actively combat oxidative stress, as it results in less inflammation and a lower risk of chronic conditions.1,3
Fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C are recognizable by the fact that they do not turn brown after being cut
Strengthening your body's natural defenses
Vitamin C promotes the production of white blood cells that protect the organism against infections. It also ensures better functioning of the white blood cells by protecting them from damage caused by potentially dangerous molecules (such as free radicals).1
Furthermore, it has been shown that vitamin C supplements ensure faster recovery. A low vitamin C level, on the other hand, is associated with poorer health. Research has shown that a deficiency of this vitamin increases the risk of certain winter ailments.1,4
The skin also determines immunity5
The skin is the body's first defensive barrier against pathogens. Damage to the skin can lead to health problems, even an increased risk of certain infections.
Vitamin C is an essential part of the skin's defense system. It effectively reaches the skin, where it can optimally perform its antioxidant function and contribute to strengthening the skin barrier. Research also shows that a wound heals faster if you take vitamin C.
How much vitamin C do you need?1,3
Vitamin C is an essential vitamin, which means the body cannot produce it. Therefore, you must obtain this vitamin through food. Many fruits and vegetables contain vitamin C, particularly citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwis, bell peppers, broccoli, and spinach. If you only get a small amount this way, a supplement—now even more effective thanks to liposomal supplements6—can ensure you get enough vitamin C.
A great advantage of vitamin C is that it is water-soluble: it is not stored in our organism. This means that our body will only use the amount of vitamin C it needs, and any excess from overconsumption will be excreted through urine. It is therefore almost impossible to consume too much vitamin C through food.
Scientific references
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