Dr Lalitha Badul

This week we look at the health benefits of vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid.

It aids in boosting the immune system, lowering hypertension, curing cataracts, combating stroke, maintaining the elasticity of skin, healing wounds, and controlling the symptoms of asthma.

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Vitamin C is one of the most effective and safest nutrients. It is a water-soluble vitamin and a powerful antioxidant in the synthesis of collagen, which helps make the blood vessels and muscles strong.

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The human body doesn’t have the capacity to generate vitamin C. Therefore, it needs to be received through food and other supplements.

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The important sources of vitamin C are citrus fruits such as oranges and grapes.

Strawberries, raspberries, cabbages, cauliflowers, other leafy vegetables, red peppers, potatoes, broccoli, chilies, watercresses, parsley, Brussels sprouts, cantaloupes, mange touts, and kiwi fruits are also rich sources of this vitamin.

Cooking food at low temperatures and for a shorter period is important to keep the vitamin C preserved and beneficial.