 Though essential to health, vitamin C is not synthesized within the body and must be obtained through diet or supplementation. As vitamin C is water soluble and not stored by the body, you need to get adequate amounts of this important nutrient every day if you want to achieve and maintain optimal health. While it's rare to be seriously deficient in vitamin C, evidence suggests that many of us have low levels of this highly protective nutrient. And while scurvy, a potentially life-threatening disease caused by a severe vitamin C deficiency, has been largely eliminated, there has been a rise in the occurrence of deficiencies due to poor diets, eating disorders, and a diminishing ability to absorb the vitamin. Alcohol and medications such as analgesics, antidepressants, and oral contraceptives, and even steroids may all reduce vitamin C levels in the body. So what role does vitamin C play in health? Well, as an antioxidant, vitamin C helps to neutralize free radicals, thereby reducing some of the DNA damage that contributes to cellular aging. Vitamin C is necessary for the normal growth development and repair of all body tissues. It functions as an essential cofactor in many enzymatic processes, including adrenal gland function and the biosynthesis of collagen, carnitine, and catecholamine. Evidence shows that people who eat diets rich in vitamin C are less likely to be diagnosed with arthritis, as the antioxidant properties of vitamin C appear to limit joint damage from free radicals. Vitamin C is believed to be cardio-protective in its ability as an antioxidant to slow the progression of atherosclerosis. Population-based studies show that people who have high antioxidant diets have a lower risk of high blood pressure than those with poorer diets. If you are at risk for high blood pressure, a diet rich in antioxidants such as vitamin C is frequently recommended. Along with the antioxidants zinc, beta-carotene, and vitamin E, vitamin C acts to protect the eyes from macular degeneration, which is the leading cause of blindness in people over the age of 55. So what are the signs of vitamin C deficiency? They are chronic low energy, gingivitis and tooth loss, irritability or rapid mood change, bruising that occurs easily and lingers, chronic limb bone or joint pain or swelling, anemia, increased susceptibility to viruses or infections, slow wound healing, dry brittle hair, rough dry skin and advanced aging of cells. To get the most benefit from supplemental or dietary sources of vitamin C, be sure to eat lots of raw or lightly cooked fruits and vegetables and be sure to drink plenty of fluids. There are many types of vitamin C supplements available. To find the right supplement for you, you can email or call Professional Supplement Center. Our knowledgeable staff is always happy to assist you.