Vitamin C and other Nutrients May Help Reduce Your Risk of Stroke

Stroke is something that is feared by many, especially the elderly.  And sadly, many have the attitude that a stroke is unpreventable.  While the hemorrhagic stroke is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States; according to studies conducted by Cambridge University, approximately eighty percent of these strokes can be prevented.  Now that’s enough reason to step up in proper nutrition! 

In these findings at Cambridge University, it was reported that stroke victims had several similarities including high blood pressure, excess weight and a deficiency in vitamin C.  Furthermore, reports from past studies indicate that in addition to increasing vitamin C, it is important to get vitamin D from sun exposure and sufficient iron to help decrease the risk of blood clots.  According to a study conducted by Dr. Claire Shovlin, “even a moderately low level of iron levels can double your risk of stroke”.  This is because an iron deficiency increases the likelihood of blood being sticky, which in turn contributes to strokes.

As for vitamin D, while there are supplements available, the most recommended form is that of natural sun exposure.  Healthy exposure to the life-giving sun also helps support proper kidney function, increases muscle strength and oral health, as well as assists in the production of optimal blood pressure levels.  So while proper common sense precautions need to be exercised when enjoying the great outdoors, opting for the most natural in health boosting ways, is always the best.

So, stop fearing stroke and start taking care of yourself and consider increasing your exercise, enjoying the great outdoors, enjoying some vitamin C and iron rich foods and taking charge of your health

Protect Your Eyes with Vitamin C

Most of us have heard that carrots, or beta-carotene are god for the eyesight; but that’s not the only thing.  With a number of factors relative to declining health and accelerating ageing, along with all the free radicals floating in the air, our diets largely consisting of highly processed, nutrient deficient foods and sedentary lifestyle, eye diseases are a growing concern.  In the western world alone, there are 25 million people over the age of 55 who are affected by blindness resulting in AMD (age-related macular degeneration). While none of us likes the aging process, eye issues in particular are not something to take lightly. 

The thought of macular degeneration, cataracts or other eye issues are frightening and in addition to the things already mentioned, smoking and diabetes adds to the risk.  But perhaps what you didn’t know is that there are a few simple steps that can be taken to greatly decrease your chances of these major eye issues. 

According to a study conducted by the National Eye Institute, many age-related eye diseases are the result of nutritional deficiency.  In their study, participants took beta-carotene, vitamin E, zinc and 500 mg of vitamin C per day; which resulted in a risk decrease for contracting age-related macular degeneration by as much as twenty-five percent.

Furthermore, with increased intake of vitamin C, your body is better able to absorb iron and other vital nutrients essential to healthy cells, teeth, gums, cartilage and capillaries offering an overall health benefit.

Though there are varying supplement forms of vitamin C, otherwise known as ascorbic acid, it is also derived from foods.  While citrus juice is one of the more commonly recognized forms of vitamin C, it can also be found in spinach, tomatoes, apples, bananas, and peaches. 

While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration have a daily-recommended allowance of 90mg per day, the studies performed by the National Eye Institute show that a dosage of 500 mg per day better supplies the body with defenses against eye diseases.

If you question if you are getting a proper daily dosage of vitamin C through foods, then consider adding a supplement to your regimen. 

This is for informational purposes only and it is your responsibility to do your own research before making decisions.  If you have health questions, it is recommended to consult a health care professional.

Vitamin C for Health

As essential as vitamin C is to human health, there is a lack of information all health benefits of vitamin C.  While the recommended daily allowance provided by the RDA is required on labels, oftentimes this dosage is not up to par with the amount in which the human body could truly reap benefits.

Some of the latest studies have revealed new and significant health benefits of vitamin C, and have proven it useful in breaking down some classes of oxidized fats. This amazing antioxidant can provide health benefits to the cardiovascular system, ant aging, anti-inflammatory and boost the immune system. Furthermore, it is said to help prevent lead absorption in the body, reduce the adverse effects of a stroke and even help in the inhibition of organ failure in surgery patients.

While Vitamin C is found in a variety of fruits and vegetables, a new form known as liposomal vitamin C is a technological breakthrough in nutrient assimilation and offers incredible health benefits.

The premise of the liposomal design is to mimic fat cells of the body, which in turn help the vitamin C better reach the body’s cells.  This is important because vitamin C is naturally water soluble, and with the liposomal technology, the body can reap more benefits of the vitamin C because it is protected from being broken down by digestive juices. 

As always, it is important to educate yourself and take responsibility for your own health.  In addition if you have any concerns about your own health or the health of your child, you should always consult with a healthcare professional.