,
also known as Ascorbic Acid, has many benefits. Vitamin C supports a variety of
the body's structures and is essential to the formation of bones and teeth.
Since children (and adults) cannot manufacture their own vitamin C due to a lack
of an enzyme, this is why vitamin C is known as an essential nutrient. Children
need to consume it through foods rich in the vitamin or supplement it within
their diet.
Vitamin C is most
commonly known for aiding in the function of the immune system. Maintaining
healthy vitamin C levels during the cold and flu season may keep kids healthier
during the time when the immune system may be weaker. Taking extra vitamin C at
the onset of a cold may help kids get back to their normal self in much less
time that usual.
Vitamin C boosts immune
system functions, helps the body fight stress and enhances collagen production
(needed for healthy skin, bones, teeth & connective tissue).
Vitamin C is required for
at least 300 metabolic functions in the body, including tissue & growth repair,
adrenal gland function, & the production of anti-stress hormones. Studies have
shown that Vitamin C supplement can reduce the symptoms of asthma & reduce LDL
levels "low density lipoproteins" which are the bad cholesterol in the body.*
Vitamin C is involved in
the manufacture of carnitine, a substance necessary for the production of energy
from fatty acid in cells. It is necessary for the activity of the enzyme system,
which metabolizes drugs in the body. It is also necessary for iron absorption
and plays a role in the conversion of cholesterol to bile acids for excretion.*
Vitamin C is important in
the synthesis of adrenal hormones and is depleted from the adrenal glands in
times of stress.*
Vitamin C is critical to
childrens immune function and is a powerful anti-oxidant. Vitamin C has been
shown to lower the risk for cancers of the oral cavity, esophagus, stomach,
colon and lungs.*
Vitamin C also plays a role
in the manufacture of neurotransmitters. It is necessary for the conversion of
trytophan to serotonin, and of tyrosine to dopamine and adrenaline.*
