Are there any benefits and side effects of taking vitamin C?
Disease description:
My skin is very dark. I'm still quite young, but being dark makes me look less attractive. A doctor told me that I can take vitamin C to help whiten my skin. I would like to ask, what are the benefits and side effects of taking vitamin C?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Benefits of Taking Vitamin C:
1. Boosts Immunity: Vitamin C stimulates the production of white blood cells, enhancing the body's ability to fight infections.
2. Promotes Wound Healing: Due to its role in collagen synthesis, it plays an important role in the repair of skin wounds.
3. Antioxidant Effects: It can neutralize free radicals, reduce oxidative stress, and help prevent chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and certain cancers.
4. Enhances Iron Absorption: Vitamin C converts non-heme iron from food into a form that is more easily absorbed by the body, helping to prevent iron-deficiency anemia.
5. Supports Skin Health: Promotes collagen synthesis, maintains skin elasticity, and reduces wrinkles.
Side Effects of Vitamin C:
1. Digestive Issues: High doses of vitamin C may cause diarrhea, nausea, or abdominal discomfort.
2. Increased Risk of Kidney Stones: Long-term excessive intake of vitamin C may increase urinary excretion of oxalate, thereby increasing the risk of kidney stones.
Therefore, it is recommended to obtain sufficient vitamin C through a balanced diet and avoid indiscriminate supplementation.
