Vitamin C is a particularly important nutrient with several benefits that it can give to your body. It is a potent antioxidant which helps neutralize free radicals and prevent cellular damage caused by them. Vitamin C, also called ascorbic acid, is of course present in some foods, added to others, and also available as a dietary supplement. Water-soluble vitamins are found in many fruits and vegetables, including oranges, strawberries, kiwi fruit, bell peppers, broccoli, kale and spinach.

Here are 10 scientifically proven benefits of taking a vitamin C supplement.

Helps with body healing

Vitamin C is an important component of animal tissue and plays a big role in wound healing.

Has antioxidant powers

Vitamin C being an antioxidant, helps prevent cell damage. Therefore, it can help prevent health issues caused by oxidative stress.

Can boost your collagen production

Vitamin C plays a significant role within the biosynthesis of collagen which could be a key ingredient in many skincare products. Intake of ascorbic acid can improve your natural collagen production.

Vitamin C can help improve heart health

According to the NIH, there’s some evidence that vitamin C can help control cardiovascular diseases. One among the most important studies, involving over 85000 women, found that intake of vitamin C in both dietary and supplemental form reduced the chance of coronary cardiomyopathy. Others have found it can reduce the chance of stroke.

Prevents iron deficiency

Vitamin C helps improve your body’s iron absorption capacity. One study found that just 100mg of antioxidants can improve the absorption of the blood building mineral by 67%. Consuming more water-soluble vitamin rich foods or taking an ascorbic acid supplement may help improve your blood iron levels.