May reduce your risk of chronic disease
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) is a powerful antioxidant that boosts the body's natural defenses.
Antioxidants are molecules that boost the immune system. They do this by protecting cells from harmful molecules called free radicals.
When free radicals accumulate, they promote a state called oxidative stress, which has been linked to many chronic diseases (3 credible sources).
Studies have shown that consuming more vitamin C can increase antioxidant levels in the blood by 30 percent. This helps the body's natural defenses fight inflammation.
May help control high blood pressure
About one-third of American adults have high blood pressure.
High blood pressure puts you at risk for heart disease, the leading cause of death worldwide.
Research suggests vitamin C may help lower blood pressure in people with and without hypertension.
One animal study found that taking vitamin C supplements helped to lower blood pressure levels by relaxing the blood vessels that carry blood from the heart.
In addition, an analysis of 29 human studies found that in healthy adults, taking vitamin C supplements reduced systolic blood pressure (upper limit) by an average of 3.8 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure (lower limit) by an average of 1.5 mmHg.
In adults with hypertension, vitamin C supplements reduced systolic blood pressure by an average of 4.9 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure by an average of 1.7 mmHg.
While these results are promising, it is not clear whether the effects on blood pressure are long-term. In addition, patients with high blood pressure should not rely on vitamin C alone for treatment.
The bottom line
Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin and must be obtained from diet or supplements.
It has been linked to a number of impressive health benefits, such as increased antioxidant levels, lower blood pressure, prevention of gout attacks, improved iron absorption, enhanced immunity and reduced risk of heart disease and dementia.
Overall, vitamin C supplements are a simple and effective way to increase your vitamin C intake if you are having trouble getting enough vitamin C from your diet.
