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Did you know that vitamin C is a powerful ally for our skin?
Contrary to popular belief, vitamin C is not sensitive to the sun. In fact, it plays a crucial role in protecting our skin from UV damage by participating in collagen synthesis and fighting free radicals.
Let’s dive into the many benefits of this essential vitamin.
The origin of vitamin C
From the 15th century onwards and with the beginning of long ocean voyages, sailors often suffered from scurvy , a potentially fatal disease whose origin was then unknown.
This disease was caused by the lack of fresh fruits and vegetables in their diet, resulting in an almost total deficiency of vitamin C. This caused a progressive degeneration of the body's tissues due to the cessation of collagen production and other vital reactions, leading to apathy and, ultimately, death in the sailors. It was not until 1928 that the Hungarian biochemist Albert Szent-Györgyi first isolated ascorbic acid , known as vitamin C.
What is vitamin C?
Ascorbic acid, or vitamin C , is a vitamin that the human body cannot synthesize , unlike many animals such as cats and dogs. Therefore, it must be obtained through food. It is a water-soluble molecule , which means that it dissolves instantly in water. This explains its low storage and easy elimination by the body, requiring regular intake. In addition, high doses are unnecessary because they are quickly eliminated in the urine.
Ascorbic acid is also a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from free radical damage and is essential for the absorption of iron into the blood.
Vitamin C and its role on the skin
Vitamin C is particularly beneficial for the skin. It is involved in collagen synthesis and in protecting the skin against UV rays.
Its role is essential in the production of collagen , which determines the suppleness and elasticity of the skin. Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, responsible for the proper maintenance of all soft tissues, including the skin.
Vitamin C intervenes at a very specific stage of collagen synthesis , that of the hydroxylation of Lysine and Proline.
Without vitamin C, the body cannot produce collagen, which accentuates the effects of skin aging.
Exposure to solar UV rays is a factor that accelerates skin aging because it generates free radicals that affect the structure of the skin.
To limit these effects, the known rules of direct protection against radiation such as the use of sun creams are obviously essential, however vitamin C also contributes to the protection of the skin by limiting the proliferation of oxidizing free radicals.
Daily Vitamin C Dosage: Daily Dose, Deficiency, and Deficiency
Daily vitamin C requirements vary depending on age, gender, and general health.
For an adult, intakes of 75 mg to 90 mg per day are generally sufficient.
Although complete vitamin C deficiency is very rare, hypovitaminosis, which corresponds to a moderate deficit, affects nearly 50% of the population.
These vitamin C deficiencies often result from insufficient regular consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables.
When it comes to filling these deficiencies, high-dose vitamin C cures are not very effective given the easy elimination of excess vitamin C in the urine. It is preferable to have regular and moderate intakes .
Where to find vitamin C in food
Vitamin C is found in fresh fruits and vegetables.
However, it is destroyed by heat during cooking, which limits its contribution to products consumed raw.
During the summer, it's easy to include seasonal fruits and vegetables to stock up on vitamin C. Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruit are classics, but other fruits, like strawberries, kiwis, and mangoes, are also excellent sources of vitamin C.
You can also use red and green peppers, broccoli, tomatoes or even spinach for your salads because they are rich in vitamin C.
Top up on vitamin C with a supplement while avoiding massive doses
To facilitate and secure vitamin C intake , food supplements are a practical solution, even if the dosages generally proposed are not in line with current nutritional knowledge.
It is unnecessary to have occasional intakes of more than 200 mg/day, except in special cases relating exclusively to the medical field.
Vitamin C absorption decreases sharply as the dose increases , and excess amounts are eliminated directly in the stool and urine. Absorption is only about 10% for a 1000 mg dose!
It's best to choose a supplement that provides moderate doses alongside a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables. At Argalys, we've designed our Vitamin C spray supplement to ensure safe daily intake with maximum availability. Plus, its format makes it easy to transport, from the office to vacation.
Conclusion: Why vitamin C is essential in summer
In summer, the skin is more exposed to UV rays , which increases the risk of skin damage and premature aging .
Vitamin C is a valuable ally for your skin because it protects against free radicals and stimulates the production of collagen .
It is therefore necessary to include regular intake of vitamin C in the sun protection arsenal, through the consumption of fresh fruit and vegetables and/or appropriate supplementation .
It's a routine you can continue all year round for the beauty of your skin.
