Vitamin C prevents many debilitating diseases and increases the bodys immunity. This vitamin can be taken with or without food. In addition to medical supplements, some excellent sources of Vitamin C include parsley, broccoli, bell pepper, strawberries, oranges, lemon juice, papaya, cauliflower, kale, mustard greens, and Brussels sprouts.

Scientific research has shown that there are no known advantages in consuming excessive amounts of Vitamin C. Some of the more common signs of mild Vitamin C deficiency include weakness, lassitude, swollen gums, nosebleeds and scurvy. Possible reasons which can result in this deficiency include inadequate diet, alcoholism and homelessness. Even though the body would only use as much as it needs of the vitamin, overdose can hinder metabolic activities in the body.

Ligaments, tendons and collagen rely on Vitamin C to stay strong and healthy. It also helps in recycling other antioxidants. As per your health conditions, it might be more useful to take Vitamin C supplements along with other antioxidants such as vitamin E, flavonoids and carotendoids. Vitamin C is a well-known anti-oxidant which protects the skin from UV radiation damage. It can actually reverse some of the damaging effects of the disease. Excessive exposure to UV radiation causes photo aging (age spots caused by the sun), which causes oxidative damage in skin cells.

When looking out for Vitamin C supplements in the store, take special care to watch out for esterified C, time-released C. It has not been scientifically proven that these can be absorbed as easily as ascorbic acid.