Vitamin C To Boost Collagen and Maintain Healthy Skin!

Vitamin C’s Role in Your Skin’s Health

Vitamin C is a cofactor in the synthesis of collagen. Collagen, being the most abundant protein found in your body, is present in your skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and blood vessels.

Collagen is what provides structural support and strength for your skin. Without adequate levels of collagen, your skin loses firmness and elasticity, and wrinkles begin to appear prematurely.  Since collagen production decreases as you age, it’s imperative that you provide your skin adequate nourishment to help facilitate the production of collagen.

How Much Vitamin C Should You Consume?

Vitamin C, often labeled ascorbic acid or L-ascorbic acid is a vital nutrient found in many foods we consume. Vitamin C is water-soluble (absorbed through water), making it readily available to you. However, your body will not store it, and any excess levels will be eliminated by your body. On the same token, humans are not able to synthesize this vitamin, so it is important to incorporate it in your diet daily to ensure you are getting enough.

Recommended Daily Intake of Vitamin C:

Women – 75mg

Men – 90mg

Dietary Sources of Vitamin C

90% of the Vitamin C you consume is found in fresh fruits and vegetables.  It’s important to note that Vitamin C is sensitive to heat, light, and oxygen, and can become easily damaged, thus decreasing its potency, and potentially rendering it ineffective. 

To obtain the most Vitamin C content, eat your fruits and vegetables raw.  Try and get your fruits and veggies from your local farmer’s market for optimum freshness.  And remember, the longer the produce sits in your pantry, the quicker the Vitamin C will oxidize, and the less nutritious your fruits and veggies become.

Fruits & Veggies High in Vitamin C:

Strawberries

Peppers

Oranges

Kale

Lemons

Spinach

Limes

Broccoli

Skin Benefits of Vitamin C

1. Slows Aging Process

   Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant, capable of neutralizing free radicals that cause cellular “rust” (oxidation).

2. Prevents and Reduces Wrinkles

   Vitamin C boosts collagen production.  Collagen plumps your skin and smooths out fine lines and wrinkles.  It also helps your skin maintain suppleness and elasticity.

3. Protects Against UV Rays

   Vitamin C prevents the sun’s harmful rays from causing further damage to your skin. Vitamin C is NOT a sunscreen or sunblock, however, it does help by counteracting those free radicals that are generated during prolonged UV exposure.

4. Improves Skin Complexion

   Vitamin C helps strengthen blood vessels, including the capillaries that are in your face. Improved blood circulation allows more nutrients to be delivered to your cells and contributes to your skin’s radiant glow!

5. Reduces Inflammation

   Vitamin C is known to reduce inflammatory response in your body. This is especially beneficial to those looking to get some relief from skin conditions such as rosacea or cystic acne.