Vitamin C, also called ascorbic acid, maintains the



ligaments, tendons, and other supportive tissue. It is found

in fruits and in potatoes. Because it's an antioxidant it

helps regulate your blood cells, keeping blood cells from

becoming deformed from the toxics in the air, which in some

cases can cause cancer.

The best function of vitamin C is the formation of collagen,

a protein substance that keeps the cell together. Vitamin C

enhances the absorption of iron. It is needed for buoyant

health, vitality and endurance. It keeps your skin clear,

with a fresh complexion and healthy gums and teeth. It is

very important for the functions of all glands and organs.

This vitamin maintains the bones and proper functioning of

the adrenal and thyroid glands. It promotes healing and

protects against all forms of stress - physical and mental.

So what happens if you don't take enough vitamin c? If you

become deficiency of vitamin C you will have soft gums, skin

haemorrhages, capillary weakness, deterioration in collagen,

anaemia, and slow healing of sores and wounds. You will see

yourself aging faster, thyroid insufficiency, and your

resistance to all infections will be very low. Its

deficiency enhances the toxic effect of drugs and

environmental poisons. Mild deficiencies of vitamin C may

appear in the form of lassitude, fatigue, anorexia, muscular

pain, and greater susceptibility to infection. Long

deficiency may cause scurvy, which is very dangerous.

Scurvy is a disease that results from insufficient intake of

vitamin C. This can leads to formation of livid spots on the

skin, soft spongy gums and bleeding from mucous membranes. A

quote from Enchanted learning.com, ?Many sailors on long

trips got scurvy, which at first debilitates and then kills

the victim. When the cause of scurvy was determined to be a

dietary deficiency, limes and other foods high in vitamin C

were brought on long sea journeys, putting an end to the

problem of scurvy. Bringing limes aboard is why sailors used

to be called "limeys."

You can find vitamin c in fruits and vegetables. But most

food fall short or loose their source when it is cooked. To

get the full benefits you will have to eat fresh fruit and

vegetables. Taking vitamin c supplements is also another

great way, taking a supplement can help you get the require

amount you need everyday.