In a world full of distractions, we often overlook the tried-and-true. The simplest choice is often the right one when it comes to being proactive about your health. Consider Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid. It’s an effective antioxidant that helps shield the body from damage caused by free radicals during regular cell metabolism and exposure to toxins. This nutrient can also regenerate other antioxidants, like Vitamin E and glutathione. Over fifty years of research have revealed the potency of vitamin C in supporting various facets of the immune system, particularly immune cell function. Here are some compelling reasons to stock up on Vitamin C as we head into the colder months.

Strengthening Your Immune System

Numerous studies confirm the role of dietary antioxidants in supporting immune cell function and fortifying defenses against invaders such as bacteria and viruses. For instance, white blood cells combat infection by eliminating microbes, removing damaged or spent white blood cells, and engaging in subsequent clean-up activities. White blood cells hoard Vitamin C, potentially as protection against free radical damage. While the winter season typically heralds more illnesses at home, work, and school, you need not succumb to such assaults. Fortify your body’s defenses by elevating your Vitamin C intake now and throughout the year.

How Much is Enough?

Despite its essential role in health, the human body cannot produce its own Vitamin C, necessitating a daily intake. Although this nutrient abounds in fruits and vegetables, studies suggest that many individuals in North America do not consume enough to meet their requirements. Especially in colder months when fresh produce is scarce, inadequate intake may contribute to deficiencies.

Another possible explanation for deficiencies is that, being water-soluble, our bodies cannot store Vitamin C for future use. Compounded by factors like pollution, stress, infection, high sugar intake, and even exercise, our bodies require more than the basics to attain optimal health. Aim for at least 1,000 to 1,200mg per day to thrive through the cold and flu season.

The Progressive Advantage

Progressive Vitamin C Complex offers an ideal solution for enhancing your Vitamin C intake with 1,200mg per day in an easy-to-swallow vegetarian capsule. The formula encompasses both isolated sources (such as Ascorbic acid and Calcium ascorbate) and whole food forms (including blueberry and acerola), ensuring the potency, balance, and bioavailability (usability) necessary for your body. Additionally, the inclusion of plant-based digestive support like papaya and black pepper extract enhances absorption and maximizes the health-promoting properties of the entire formula.

Make sure to include Vitamin C-rich citrus fruits, peppers, and seasonings like paprika in your daily fall/winter menu. To navigate the months when fresh produce is scarce, consider adding supplemental Vitamin C, such as Progressive’s Vitamin C Complex, to your daily health regimen. This way, you can embrace a healthy cold and flu season!

References:
Carr, A., & Maggini, S. (2017). Vitamin C and Immune Function. Nutrients, 9(11), 1211–. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9111211
Douglas, R., & Hemilä, H. (2005). Vitamin C for Preventing and Treating the Common Cold. PLoS Medicine, 2(6), e168–. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmed.0020168 ([1963] Annu Rev Biochem 32: 1–14).

About the Author: The Progressive Team

Progressive Nutritional Therapies prides itself on creating products designed to help support the needs of a contemporary lifestyle. With assistance from renowned naturopath Dr. Mikhael Adams BSc, ND, they have created some of the most highly comprehensive and finely detailed products and formulations.