Vitamin C: Essential for recovery, energy and immunity

Vitamin C: Essential for recovery, energy and immunity

Vitamin C: Essential for recovery, energy and immunity

At Aurora Personal Training in Eindhoven, we look beyond just training. You only achieve optimal results when your body is also well nourished from within. One of the essential micronutrients that plays a key role in this is vitamin C.

In this blog, you will discover why this vitamin should not be missing from your diet and how it contributes to your fitness, recovery and health.


What is Vitamin C?

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that your body cannot produce on its own. Unlike many animals, humans are completely dependent on food or supplementation for their intake. And that is crucial, because vitamin C is involved in many processes in the body.

The most important functions of Vitamin C: Essential for recovery

1. Antioxidant protection

Vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting cells from free radical damage. It also supports other vitamins such as vitamin E and folic acid.

2. Carnitine synthesis

In conjunction with niacin and vitamin B6, vitamin C is essential for the production of carnitine, a substance that converts fat into energy. This is particularly important for athletes and active people.

3. Supports muscle recovery and collagen formation

Vitamin C is essential for the formation of collagen and connective tissue. As a result, it contributes to the health of skin, joints, muscles, bones and blood vessels – a must for strength training.

4. Cholesterol breakdown

Vitamin C supports the breakdown of cholesterol and thus helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

5. Control over histamine levels

It helps regulate histamine, which is relevant in allergies, asthma and other immune-related conditions.

6. Protection of the endothelium

Vitamin C protects the endothelium – the inner lining of your blood vessels – and thus reduces the risk of atherosclerosis.

7. Hormone and neurotransmitter production

This vitamin is crucial for the production of adrenaline, noradrenaline, serotonin and even thyroid hormones. That also makes it important for your focus, mood and stress management.

8. Liver support and detox

Vitamin C stimulates liver enzymes and contributes to the removal of toxic substances through the blood.

9. Increases iron absorption

Vitamin C improves the absorption of iron from food – essential for good oxygen supply and energy levels.

Vitamin C in food

Voeding is de beste bron van vitamine C. Voeg deze toppers toe aan je dieet:

 

Food Vitamin C per serving
Papaya 195 mg (medium)
Bell pepper 190 mg (medium)
Broccoli 115 mg (per 100 g)
Cauliflower 115 mg (per 100 g)
Orange 70 mg (medium)
Strawberries 65 mg (per 100 g)
Grapefruit 60 mg (per ½ piece)
Potatoes 28 mg (medium)

Causes of Deficiencies, Vitamin C: Essential for Recovery

Vitamin C deficiencies occur mainly in the following situations:

  • Old age
  • Chronic diseases and long-term stress
  • Rapid growth (children, pregnancy, breastfeeding)
  • Use of medication (such as the contraceptive pill or aspirin)
  • Smoking

Symptoms & consequences of a deficiency

A vitamin C deficiency can lead to:

  • Rough skin
  • Inflamed and bleeding gums
  • Lowered resistance
  • Stress
  • Depressive feelings and mood swings
  • Increased risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, arthritis and cataracts

Practical Applications of Vitamin C

Vitamin C is used to support:

  • Immunity & wound healing
  • Psychological complaints
  • Iron deficiency
  • Allergies
  • Arteriosclerosis
  • Protection against alcohol damage
  • Diabetes
  • Smoking
  • Cataracts
  • Gum problems
  • Hemorrhoids
  • Ulcers

Recommended daily amount

The general guideline is:

  • Men: 75 mg per day
  • Women: 75 mg per day

Active athletes or people with increased stress may need more. At Aurora Personal Training we advise you on a customized basis, depending on your physical stress and lifestyle.


Our vision at Aurora Personal Training

At Aurora, everything revolves around your total picture: from training to recovery, from nutrition to mindset. We integrate knowledge about nutrition and micronutrients such as vitamin C in our guidance – so that you can perform stronger, more energetic and healthier.

Curious about what a high-end personal training program can do for your vitality?

Schedule your free intake at Aurora Personal Training in Eindhoven today.

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