Taking vitamin C when you’re suffering from a cold isn’t likely to cause
the virus to finish its course faster. However, according to WebMD,
this essential vitamin has plenty of benefits you could be missing out
on, such as offering protection against cardiovascular disease, eye
disease, and wrinkling.
1. You easily bruise
Lack of vitamin C can contribute to vitamin deficiency anemia and make it easier for you to bruise. If you notice increased bruising on your arms and legs, try eating more vitamin-C-rich foods like kale, oranges or red peppers.
2. Nosebleeds
Did you know that most of the capillaries responsible for nosebleeds are located at the front of your nose? If you have less vitamin C in your system, these capillaries become more sensitive, which can lead to nosebleeds.
3. Wounds heal slower
Your body needs an ample supply of red blood cells to carry oxygen through your body. Those cells do a lot of work, from clotting to the growth of new cells and skin. If you aren’t getting enough vitamin C, your body won’t be able to produce enough of these cells, so your wounds may heal slower, according to the Mayo Clinic.
4. Fatigue and depression
Fatigue is a common symptom in many medical conditions. If you’re suffering from fatigue and feeling depressed or moody, increase your vitamin C intake and see if your mood improves. If you’re still not feeling like your usual self, you might want to consult a medical professional.
5. Irregular heartbeat
Vitamin C helps your body absorb iron. Low iron can lead to anemia, heart palpitations, and pregnancy complications.
6. Swollen gums
Vitamin C helps prevent plaque and tartar. One study observed that those with higher levels of the vitamin had less tooth decay. In fact, the study showed that people who had higher levels of vitamin C but brushed less than twice a day had comparable teeth to those who brushed twice a day but had lower vitamin C levels. Increase your intake of vitamin C for oral health.
7. Swollen joints
A severe lack of vitamin C in your system can result in scurvy. One symptom of this disease is painful, swollen joints and muscle weakness. When levels of vitamin C are too low, collagen cannot form properly. Collagen makes up the connective tissue between joints, and if its production is impaired, your joints suffer.
8. Dry hair and brittle nails
Collagen is key in many areas of your body, including healthy skin and nails. If your body isn’t absorbing enough vitamin C, your skin may develop small, hard bumps, redness, wrinkling and dryness. Also, your nails can become brittle and break easily.
9. More frequent illness
The best way to fight off illness is to boost your immune system. Vitamin C is essential for your body and helps white blood cells to function more effectively in fighting infection. A study in the National Library of Medicine shows that vitamin C levels drop when your body is sick or stressed. If you have a vitamin C deficiency, your body will have an even harder time recovering.
10. Weight gain
Did you know that the amount of vitamin C in your bloodstream affects how your body oxidizes fat? An Arizona State University Study showed that study participants with lower levels of vitamin C had higher body fat mass. If you’ve gained weight or your weight loss is at a standstill, try eating foods that are high in vitamin C or take a vitamin C supplement to give your body a boost.