The abundance of pseudo-scientific literature on the Internet often obscures the kernels of truth about nutritional supplements. For example, research does substantiate the role and importance of vitamin C in promoting optimal immune system health. For this exercise, I presented the question, “Does Vitamin C actually boost my immune system? If so, how or why?” The reason why I chose this question is because I have been taking Vitamin C, and do not know if it is worth the investment in the supplements. I want to know if vitamin C’s role in boosting the immune system is scientifically valid or a spurious claim made by those interested in selling me their brand of supplements. Wintergerst, Maggini & Hornig (2006) present the results of a review of literature on Vitamin C, published in a peer-reviewed journal. The Wintergerst, Maggini & Hornig (2006) study is not an experimental research but it is a review of literature detailing the physiological effects and functions of vitamin C, such as its impact on cellular growth, cellular differentiation, and anti-oxidation. Vitamin C serves as an “electron donor” and other immune functions (Wintergerst, Maggini & Hornig, 2006, p. 87). Likewise, vitamin C is integral for the endothelial and leukocyte functions (Wintergerst, Maggini...
87). The authors conclude that adequate intake of vitamin C is necessary for maintaining health.References
Robertson, C. (2015). The link between vitamin C and optimal immunity. Life Extension. Retrieved online: http://www.lifeextension.com/magazine/2015/11/the-link-between-vitamin-c-and-optimal-immunity/page-01
Wintergerst, E.S., Maggini, S. & Hornig, D.H. (2006). Immune-enhancing role of vitamin C and zinc effect on clinical conditions. Annals of Nutrition and Metabolism 50(2): 85-94.
“Vitamin C and Immune System: Does it Help?” Well Wisdom. Retrieved online: http://www.wellwisdom.com/vitamin-c-and-immune-system/
This work by the Harvard School of public health states that while small trails have indicated that the amount of vitamin C contained in a typical multivitamin and taken in the beginning of the development of a cold "might ease symptoms" however, for the "average person, there's no evidence that megadoses make a difference or that they prevent colds." (2009) It is related as well that studies examining Vitamin
For example, serum beta-carotene, retinol, and alpha-tocopherol levels rose in autumn months. Vitamin C serum concentrations were higher in the winter and spring. Male participants revealed higher serum retinol concentrations than females, although male and female respondents already differed in terms of age. Younger respondents did have higher levels of beta carotene. Smoking had a stronger effect on lowering serum levels of vitamin C and beta-carotene than on retinol. In
Pro Veganism A strictly vegetarian diet is best suited to the human body's needs, mankind's ability of survival on earth, and our inherent compassion. Switching to such a diet is fairly simple and creates the opportunity to lead a healthier, happier, and gentler life (Marcus, xi). For numerous reasons, humanity has been increasingly taking to veganism since the last few years. Some vegan supporters assert their participation in a dietary regimen wherein
Computer Vision Syndrome According to the Computer Desktop Encyclopedia, Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) is "A variety of problems related to prolonged viewing of a computer screen. Short-term effects include dry eyes, blurred vision, eye fatigue and excessive tearing. Long-term effects include migraines, cataracts and visual epilepsy. Some solutions are to keep reflections and glare to a minimum and to provide a non-fluorescent, uniform light source. Special lamps are available that maintain
The Archives of Internal Medicine study confirmed that 30 minutes of walking a day (10-12 miles a week) "can prevent weight gain in most people who are now inactive. Other studies have shown that working up to 10,000 steps or more could reduce the risk of heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and obesity. Companies and organizations have encouraged their customers and members to participate in the program. ("10,000 steps a day") The
As a result, it is not stable to say that the balance of benefits and harms of routine use of supplements of vitamins a, C or E; multivitamins with folic acid; or antioxidant combinations for the prevention of cancer or cardiovascular disease (U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). From other evidence, it does not seem that the experiments of this article were not conducted long enough to prove its thesis
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