Vitamin C: 13 Research-Backed Benefits
Vitamin C is the most potent enhancer of nonheme iron absorption.
Other potential benefits from consuming vitamin C are helping to protect cells and keep them healthy, maintaining healthy skin, blood vessels, bones, and cartilage, and also helping with wound healing.
There is some evidence that regular use of vitamin C supplements may reduce the duration of the common cold, but it does not appear to prevent infection.
Research has shown that ascorbic acid supplementation can substantially reduce oxidative stress, particularly when combined with vitamin E.
Also, that dietary consumption of vitamins C and E is associated with a lower risk of Parkinson's.
Some research is also pointing to that an optimal supply of vitamin C seems to support cognition and may prevent Alzheimer's disease.
In this article, we list claims of potential benefits and/or side-effects of vitamin c that we have found research on. Every claim is listed with all of its sources. We get these claims from our Nutrition Tool.
We also have an article about vitamin c named What Is Vitamin C & What Foods Can I Find It In? if you're interested in learning more.
Table of Contents
Research-Backed Beneficial Claims Of Vitamin C
These are some of the potential research-backed health benefits of vitamin c.
1. Alzheimer's Disease
Vitamin C - Alzheimer's Disease
About this claim
Alzheimer's disease is an progressive brain disorder. According to research may some nutrients be beneficial for people with a risk of developing Alzheimer's disease or those that already have contracted it.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 6 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
2. Bacterial Growth
Vitamin C - Bacterial Growth
About this claim
Bacterial growth is a complex process. We have both good and bad bacteria in our bodies. According to research, some nutrients might help your good bacteria in your body, which will help you stay healthy.
Research sources for this claim
- Vitamin C and Immune Function ◳
- Microbial killing
You are welcome to explore 10 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
3. Blood Vessels
Vitamin C - Blood Vessels
About this claim
Blood vessels are part of the cardiovascular system. Research suggests that nutrition can be a powerful tool in protecting the arteries from damage. Several nutrients may have a positive impact on keeping your vessels healthy.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 13 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
4. Bone Health
Vitamin C - Bone Health
About this claim
It is crucial to keep your bones healthy. Poor bone health can cause a variety of conditions. Specific nutrients have been shown through research to be beneficial for bone health, keeping your bones strong and healthy. The bones need to work together with muscles and joints to hold your body together.
Research sources for this claim
- Information factsheet of the benefits of Vitamin C ◳
- Vitamin C in Disease Prevention and Cure: An Overview ◳
- The Roles and Mechanisms of Actions of Vitamin C in Bone: New Developments. ◳
You are welcome to explore 23 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
5. Cancer
Vitamin C - Cancer
About this claim
Cancer is when abnormal cells divide without control in your body, making you ill. Research shows that some nutrients can play a vital role in the treatment of various cancers, but also as one prevention method.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 53 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
6. Cell Health
Vitamin C - Cell Health
About this claim
A cell is the smallest unit of life. They provide structure for the body, taking nutrients from food, and carry out functions. Our cells require nutrients to function optimally. According to research, some specific nutrients can beneficially affect your cells. Healthy cells are vital for your overall health.
Research sources for this claim
- Vitamin C and Immune Function ◳
- Information factsheet of the benefits of Vitamin C ◳
- The Roles and Mechanisms of Actions of Vitamin C in Bone: New Developments. ◳
- development, function, and maintenance of several cell types
You are welcome to explore 36 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
7. Cognitive Functions
Vitamin C - Cognitive Functions
About this claim
Cognitive functioning refers to multiple mental abilities. According to research, some nutrients may be beneficial in different stages in life, aiding in the development of or keeping cognitive functions.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 7 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
8. Gum Health
Vitamin C - Gum Health
About this claim
Gum health is vital for your overall health. Gum disease connects to numerous health problems that can arise. Some studies suggest that improving nutrition and supplementation of some nutrients may contribute to healthy gums.
Research sources for this claim
- Vitamin C in Disease Prevention and Cure: An Overview ◳
- The Roles and Mechanisms of Actions of Vitamin C in Bone: New Developments. ◳
9. Immune System
Vitamin C - Immune System
About this claim
Our body's immune system protects us from bacteria, viruses, and other foreign substances. A well-functioning immune system is critical for survival. Consuming enough right nutrients in your diet is required for the health and function of all immune cells, according to research. Specific nutrients might help with modulating your immune system for it to work at its best.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 34 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
10. Iron Absorption
Vitamin C - Iron Absorption
About this claim
Iron is an essential mineral needed for your blood and other functions in your body. There are nutrients, according to research, that can help your body with the absorption when consumed together with iron-rich foods.
Research sources for this claim
- Vitamin C - an overview ◳
- Potent enhancer of iron absorption
You are welcome to explore 4 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
11. Oxidative Stress
Vitamin C - Oxidative Stress
About this claim
Oxidative stress is an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in the body. It can lead to cell and tissue damage. Several studies have shown that some nutrients might be beneficial in keeping the balance between the free radicals and antioxidants in the body.
Research sources for this claim
- Vitamin C and Immune Function ◳
- Vitamin C - an overview ◳
- Particularly when combined with vitamin E
You are welcome to explore 18 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
12. Skin Health
Vitamin C - Skin Health
About this claim
Your skin needs the right kind of nutrients to stay healthy. What’s going on in the inside shows on the outside. Research is telling us that what you eat can make an enormous difference in how your skin looks and feels. It can also have an impact on common skin conditions and even the risk of skin cancer.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 22 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
13. Wound Healing
Vitamin C - Wound Healing
About this claim
Good nutrition is vital for healing wounds. According to research, nutrients can play an essential role in the process of healing wounds. The faster a wound heals, the better. It's a natural process with different stages wounds needs to go through to heal, but the time spent in the stages vary depending on your health status.
Research sources for this claim
- Information factsheet of the benefits of Vitamin C ◳
- Vitamin C in Disease Prevention and Cure: An Overview ◳
- The Roles and Mechanisms of Actions of Vitamin C in Bone: New Developments. ◳
- Vitamin C - an overview ◳
You are welcome to explore 12 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.