Vitamin C or L-ascorbic acid or L-ascorbate is an essential nutrient for humans.
Functions of Vitamin C
Vitamin C is necessary for the formation of collagen, the connective tissue in skin, ligaments, and bones. Vitamin C speeds the production of new cells in wound healing, protects your immune system, helps you fight off infection, and plays a role in the syntheses of hormones and other body chemicals. The vitamin aids in forming red blood cells and preventing hemorrhaging and bleeding gums.
It maintains the activity of white blood cells which act as bacteria fighters. Vitamin C acts as an inhibitor of histamine, a compound that is released during allergic reactions and reduces the severity of allergic reactions. Vitamin C has shown protective effects against heavy metal exposure, pesticides, and food additives such as nitrates which have been associated with cancer. The vitamin is an antioxidant, protects LDL cholesterol from oxidative damage, supports the immune system, and helps prevent cancer. Recent studies have shown vitamin C affects nitric oxide activity, which is important in the dilation of blood vessels beneficial in preventing artery spasms leading to heart attacks and in lowering blood pressure.