Have you ever wondered why vitamin C is flying off the shelves lately? Well, it’s not just a trend. This powerful nutrient packs a punch when it comes to boosting your immune system. But let’s get down to basics — how much do you actually need?
A Brief History of Vitamin C
First, a quick history lesson. Did you know sailors in the Middle Ages often suffered from a mysterious illness due to vitamin C deficiency? This was scurvy, a nasty disease that led to severe fatigue, bleeding gums, and even internal bleeding. It wasn’t until the 18th century that sailors discovered citrus fruits could keep scurvy at bay.
Fast forward to the 1930s, when Hungarian scientist Dr. Albert Szentgyörgyi won a Nobel Prize for isolating vitamin C from peppers. And just like that, the world was introduced to this vital nutrient.
Where Do We Get Vitamin C?
Today, getting your hands on vitamin C-rich foods is easier than ever. Think oranges, lemons, strawberries, peppers, and even potatoes! But is it enough to rely on these natural sources?
Not Just About Avoiding Scurvy
Here’s the deal: If your goal is to avoid scurvy, then a balanced diet rich in fruits and veggies should cut it. However, if you aim for optimal health, that’s a different ball game. The Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) is designed to prevent severe diseases like scurvy, but what about feeling energized and resilient every single day?
How Much Is Enough?
Dr. Albert Szentgyörgyi consumed 5,000-10,000 mg of vitamin C daily, especially when he felt under the weather. And guess what? Our family does the same! We usually pop a 1,000 mg tablet every 2-3 hours and up the dosage if we feel a sniffle coming on. It’s been a game-changer for us.
Choosing the Right Supplement
Now, let’s talk about supplements. The brand may not be a big deal, but the ingredients are. Look for Ascorbic Acid on the label — that’s your vitamin C. Be cautious of “Timed release” options, as they often contain fillers that could irritate your stomach.
The Bottom Line
Vitamin C is a powerhouse. It’s more than just an immune booster. It’s practically a miracle supplement. So go ahead, include it in your health regimen and start feeling the difference today!
About the Author
Your go-to expert for a balanced, happy life filled with dance and good nutrition. As a licensed Zumba® instructor, certified nutritionist, and co-founder of Dance and Health, Lily’s mission is to make well-being simple and accessible for everyone.
Remember the struggles of maintaining a healthy weight, navigating diet fads, or even dealing with bullying in your teen years? Lily’s been there too. That’s why she gets it — health is a journey filled with ups and downs.
Gone are the days of harmful diets and self-doubt for Lily. She’s devoted her life to transforming not just herself but others, too. Nutrition isn’t just about calories for her. It’s about empowerment and self-love. And speaking of love, have you tried a dance fitness class yet? Lily swears by it as a way to joyfully boost both your physical and mental well-being.
Why settle for just getting by when you could be thriving? With Lily’s guidance, step into a life where wellness isn’t a chore but a fulfilling adventure.