What is vitamin C and its connection with collagen. Ascorbic acid or Vitamin C is one of the most commonly taken water-soluble vitamins. This is no accident, as it is associated with a number of biological processes. It is the best weapon for protection against viruses and for fatigue and weakened immunity.
In addition, it is also famous for its antioxidant action, as well as for its participation in the body’s metabolism. Vitamin C is a major ally in the absorption of iron. Undoubtedly, the benefits of this vitamin are significant, but unfortunately, our body does not produce it.
Therefore, we need to add it additionally, through nutrients or supplements. Another key role that vitamin C plays is that it is needed for the body to produce collagen.
The vitamin performs the function of a solder that binds collagen fibers and thus helps maintain collagen levels in the body. In the absence of vitamin C in the body, we are prone to inflammatory reactions, which in turn increase free radicals. They are the main obstacle in the creation of collagen.
When we talk about vitamin C deficiency, we can’t help but mention Scurvy. It is a type of vitamin deficiency disease that affects the whole body when there is an acute vitamin deficiency in the body. Accordingly, its treatment is carried out by long-term intake of foods rich in vitamin C.
Vitamin C and collagen
That is, without its participation, there is no way to synthesize this protein, which is necessary for the normal functioning of blood vessels, teeth, gums, bones, cartilage, hair, skin and nails. In a state of deficiency of this vitamin, the body will lose weight, which will adversely affect the overall health of man.
And as already mentioned, collagen production will also decrease. The lack of another element would negatively affect the synthesis of collagen and it is one of the most abundant minerals in the human body – sulfur. Without it, collagen production would not be possible.
To avoid its deficiency, you can add organic sulfur, which is present only in organic products. Also, to maximize the synthesis of collagen in the body, it is good to emphasize not only foods that build collagen, but also those that are rich in Vitamin C. Here are some of them:
- Aloe Vera Intake of aloe contributes a lot to the synthesis of collagen, and can be taken in the form of drinks, but also when applied to the skin.
- Hot peppers They are very rich in this vitamin, and it also matters exactly which peppers you consume. Most are in those with yellow, then red, in green bean and orange, Vitamin C is present the least. Capsaicin is also present in the composition of hot peppers, which has a beneficial effect on joints and muscles.
- Kiwi The small vitamin bomb is extremely rich in vitamin C. It contains up to ten times more of the vitamin in question than lemon.
- Broccoli This vegetable contains a large amount of vitamin C. Only one serving contains more than 90 mg. Despite the important role it plays in the body’s processes, it is advisable to be careful not to exceed the recommended daily doses.
The maximum dose that should not be exceeded is 2000 mg per day. If this happens, the symptoms include nausea, diarrhea, bloating, heartburn and, in some cases, headache. Another interesting fact is that by increasing the levels of hyaluronic acid (namely by taking products rich in vitamin C) further contributes to the synthesis of collagen.
Special cells, also called fibroblasts, are responsible for the production of collagen in the body. These fibroblasts are involved in, to put it mildly, complex collagen synthesis. This is due to the amino acids we get from food (protein). But the well-known vitamin C is needed to generate the synthesis, formation and maintenance of collagen.