With cold and flu season well upon us, now is the perfect time to talk about the benefits of Vitamin C. Not only is it a great antioxidant, but Vitamin C also helps repair and regenerate tissue, and is essential for naturally occurring collagen in our bodies. Unfortunately our bodies don’t store Vitamin C, so constant replenishment is vital for a strong immune system, and healthier skin and tissue. Luckily, Vitamin C occurs naturally in a whole range of different food sources. Adult women require an absolute minimum of 75mg of Vitamin C per day, although there is no maximum amount of Vitamin C that can be taken, so it’s fine to have a much higher intake. Sources We’ve all heard that oranges, lemons and other citrus fruits are a great source of Vitamin C, but it’s also present in many different fruits and vegetables including broccoli, cauliflower, kale, spinach, kiwifruit, brussels sprouts, mango and yellow and red capsicum. It’s even present in some herbs like thyme, parsley, mint, coriander and basil. The amount of Vitamin C present in each fruit or vegetable does differ, so it pays to ensure you’re eating a range of different foods to get the most Vitamin C in your diet. Vitamin C can also be applied topically to the skin. Using a potent Vitamin C product will provide antioxidant protection from daily environmental aggressors and help improve skin resilience and firmness. Ultraceuticals has two Pro Collagen formulas containing pure Vitamin C with powerful peptides and penetration enhancers to visibly firm and smooth skin: Ultra C10+ Firming Serum and Ultra C23 Firming Concentrate. Benefits And just why should you be looking for ways to increase your Vitamin C intake? The positive effects on the body are immense, and with Vitamin C present in so many different foods, it’s one of the easiest nutrients to access. Vitamin C’s greatest benefits include; Collagen Vitamin C is essential for your body to produce collagen, a protein that plays a critical role in the structure of our bodies. Collagen is the substance that holds the body together, and it’s found in the bones, muscles and tendons where it provides both strength and structure. Not only is it essential for the inside of our bodies but it also helps our skin, and the outside of our bodies looking great too. Serotonin Vitamin C helps produce serotonin, a hormone that plays a critical role in many of our body’s systems, including the nervous system, endocrine system, immune system, and digestive system. Without a healthy level of Vitamin C our bodies lack the ability to produce high levels of serotonin resulting in a decreased in all of our bodily systems. Protection against disease Vitamin C helps promote healthy gums, teeth, cartilage and the absorption of iron. Almost all cells of the body depend on it, including those of the eye, where it is concentrated in all tissues. Vitamin C also supports the health of blood vessels in the eye. – If you are new to Total Body Concept then our Guide to Healthy Skin is a great place to start on your skincare journey with us! At our Christchurch-based skin care and laser clinic we offer a full range of facial treatments, from skin peels and microdermabrasion to laser facials including Laser Genesis (aka the ‘Hollywood’ Facial) and IPL for skin rejuvenation. Our highly trained skin specialists will expertly navigate your skin concerns and real results you can see. We will give you a comprehensive skin consultation at your first appointment at Total Body Concept followed by a detailed at home skincare plan.
