Do we need all Vitamins for a better health?

     Its quite challenging to decide on what type of vitamin our body needs at a certain time without the help of a physician. Nonetheless, the question is 'is it all vitamins our body needs?' The answer is quite

simple - yes. However, not all at the same time does the body need these vitamins. Each vitamin serve a distinct function in the human body, and the deficiency of one will be required more than the other at a particular time. Though vitamins have their various level of importance, they are all needed by the human immune system to function properly.

Haven shared an article on Vitamin A and Vitamin B1 respectively, today I will be sharing the functions, sources and symptoms of deficiency of Vitamin C. Vitamin C is undoubtedly the most common type of vitamin known to Children and adults alike. It is also called Ascorbic acid. I first got to know about vitamin C when I was much younger, as a drug that is taken when one has a wound in his or her gum(in the mouth). Now in college, I have a better understanding of what vitamin C truly is and its sources as well as the effect of its deficiency in the body of any individual. This vital knowledge is what I will be sharing today.

Functions of vitamin C are as follows;

• It is required for the formation of collagen, which helps to maintain skin, teeth. Gums. Tendons and ligaments.

• Vitamin C aids to heal wounds quicker, strengthen the immune system and fight cancerous cells.

• It is required to form neurotransmitters such as dopamine in the brain

• Vitamin C helps to reduce any damage to the body from toxic substances and chemicals

• Vitamin C improves absorption of Iron

It is a known fact that one of the common sources of vitamin C is orange, however this is not the only source of this vitamin. Below is a comprehensive list of the sources of vitamin C; Citrus fruits, melon, strawberries, Blackcurrants, green peppers, broccoli, kiwi fruit, red peppers, Squash, mango, papaya, pineapple, blueberries, raspberries, cranberries and dark green leafy vegetables etc.

Symptoms of deficiency;

• Lack of vitamin C can result in one being prone to infections

• It can result in slower healing of wounds, dental and gum problems

• Fatigue

• Loss of appetite

• Dry skin

• Painful joints

• Anaemia and

• A slower metabolism.

…  One can never under estimate the benefit of a well planned meal. This is why nutritionists are well trained individuals who are to encourage people to develop the habit to eating a balanced diet.  I do hope this week you’ll structure your diets not just to put off hunger but also to be beneficial to your health. And of course that will mean eating Vitamin C rich food. 

DO HAVE A PRODUCTIVE WEEK!