According to the 2005 Journal of the American College of Nutrition, an inverse relationship exists between vitamin C levels and body weight. Sufficient amounts increase body fat oxidation by 30%

more during moderate intensity exercise than those who have insufficient vitamin C intake. Be careful not to take excessive amounts, though. Too much of a good thing is bad. The side

effects of too much vitamin C includes loose stools and diarrhea.

Vitamin C improves blood cell function and enhances vascular relaxation allowing blood to move more freely. According to Dr. Mercola, "Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant known to

block some of the damage caused by DNA-damaging free radicals. Over time, free radical damage may accelerate aging and contribute to the development of heart disease and other health conditions.

It's through this antioxidant effect that it's thought vitamin C may play a role in protecting heart health." Getting enough vitamin C also lowers the risk of high blood pressure

and atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries.

According to an article on Web MD, "This antioxidant helps get rid of free radicals that can damage cells and tissue, which means fewer triggers for inflammation." Consuming

foods rich in vitamin C boosts your immune system, heals damaged tissue, and is key in pain reduction.

Inflammation opens the door to many diseases and ailments including the common cold. Vitamin C improves the efficiency of the body's immune response by reducing inflammation. Taking concentrated doses of vitamin C at the

onset of a sneeze or a cough can help you get well sooner or avoid the worst symptoms altogether.

According to the National Cancer Institute, high-dose vitamin C can help slow the growth of prostate, pancreatic, liver, and colon cancer cells. Intravenous vitamin C can help improve symptoms associated

with cancer and cancer treatment, including fatigue, nausea, vomiting, pain, and loss of appetite. It has been found to enhance chemotherapy's effect on cancer cells as well as improve the

patient's quality of life.

Vitamin C can be used topically in your skincare regime to exfoliate, repair, and renew your skin. A study published in the Indian Dermatology Online Journal said, "Vitamin C is

a potent antioxidant drug that can be used topically in dermatology to treat and prevent changes associated with photoageing. It can also be used for the treatment of hyperpigmentation." You

may purchase products that contain vitamin C or make your own facials and serums with ingredients from your kitchen!