Introduction
When it comes to sickness, we all want to do whatever we can to feel better as quickly as possible. One way to support our immune system is by getting enough Vitamin C. In this article, we will explore the benefits of Vitamin C and how much you need when sick to boost your immune system and eliminate sickness.
How Much Vitamin C Do You Really Need When Sick?
The recommended daily allowance of Vitamin C is 90 mg for men and 75 mg for women. However, when a person is sick, they may need to increase this amount to support their immune system. Several studies have found that taking 200 mg to 1,000 mg of Vitamin C per day can reduce the severity of symptoms and decrease the duration of cold and flu symptoms. Furthermore, Vitamin C can prevent further infections and illnesses by protecting your immune health.
Top Foods High in Vitamin C for Boosting Immunity
The best way to boost your Vitamin C intake is through food. Some great food sources of Vitamin C: oranges, strawberries, kiwi, pineapple, broccoli, kale and spinach. Incorporating these foods into meals or making a fruit bowl or smoothie is a great way to increase your Vitamin C intake when feeling unwell. These foods not only boost the immune system but also provide overall nutrition to our body to help it fend off illnesses.
Vitamin C: The Secret to Fighting Off Cold and Flu Season?
Research has shown that regular Vitamin C intake can help protect against immune system deficiencies, cardiovascular diseases, prenatal health problems, eye diseases, and even skin wrinkling. As an antioxidant, Vitamin C plays a crucial role in neutralizing free radicals in the body and reducing inflammation during illness. Vitamin C supplementation may even help to enhance the production of white blood cells, which play an important role in supporting the immune system and fighting off diseases.
How to Get Enough Vitamin C Without Overdosing
While Vitamin C is essential to our wellbeing, it is important not to take too much of it. Overconsumption of Vitamin C can cause side effects such as headaches, stomach pain, diarrhea, and even kidney stones. To avoid the risk of overdosing, it is recommended to stick to the safe upper limit of 2,000 mg per day. It is always advisable to speak with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
Vitamin C: Fact vs. Fiction
Many myths surround the use of Vitamin C for cold and flu prevention and treatment. For instance, some people believe that taking large quantities of Vitamin C at the onset of an illness can cure a cold, but there is no evidence to support this. Additionally, some believe that taking Vitamin C daily can prevent getting a cold, but this has been challenged by various studies. Nevertheless, it is worth noting that Vitamin C plays an important role in supporting the body’s immune system.
Conclusion
Getting enough Vitamin C when sick is crucial for overall health. While food is the best way to get Vitamin C, it may be appropriate to take supplements during an illness. To be on the safe side, it is recommended to discuss your Vitamin C intake with your healthcare provider. Remember that taking care of your immune system should be fundamental to your overall wellness and to your ability to fight off illnesses.
