Pre Workout Vitamin : Why You Should Take Vitamin c After Working Out.

Perhaps the most widely spoken about nutrient, Vitamin C is the go-to vitamin for fighting off illness and boosting our immune system.

•Vitamin C

Vitamin C, or Ascorbic acid as it’s also known, is a water-soluble vitamin containing antiviral, antibacterial and anti-allergenic properties. It’s most important role is to protect us against free radical damage that’s often associated with the onset of chronic diseases. It does this by boosting production and function of white blood cells, and increasing the concentration of antibodies in the blood.

Not only that, this essential nutrient helps the body produce collagen, the elastic tissue found in the skin, ligaments, tendons, cartilage and blood vessels. It’s fundamental to the growth and repair of our bones, teeth and tissues. No wonder it’s the super-star of nutrients.

•Where it's found

Citrus fruits, berries, and vegetables including red capsicum, tomatoes and broccoli are the best natural sources of vitamin C. As it easily gets destroyed by cooking, it’s important to eat these foods fresh and raw (or lightly steamed) where ever possible.

•Natural sources of vitamin C include:

-Cantaloupe
-Citrus fruits and juices, such as orange and grapefruit
-Kiwi fruit
-Mango
-Papaya
-Pineapple
-Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, -cranberries
-Watermelon
-Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower
Green and red peppers
-Spinach, cabbage, turnip greens, and other leafy greens
-Sweet and white potatoes
-Tomatoes and tomato juice
-Winter squash

•How it can benefit you

It’s widely believed that Vitamin C plays a role in protecting us against the following:

Heart Disease
High blood pressure
Common cold
Cancer
Osteoarthritis
Age related macular degeneration
Asthma

•Other benefits include:

Protection against immune system deficiencies, and prenatal health problems
Helps to heal wounds and form scar tissue
Repair and maintain cartilage, bones, and teeth

•Tips:

Take it as a C complex with other nutrients including the bioflavonoids and zinc. It helps boost your immune system and in larger doses it’s a good antihistamine.