Natural sources of vitamin C support normal immunity

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2021-01-14

Natural sources of vitamin C support normal immunity

1 min read

A report produced by the scientists commissioned by the Fruit Juice Science Centre explains why vitamin C is essential for normal immunity and highlights the role of natural dietary sources such as fruits and vegetables.

The report found that vitamin C performs a number of immunity functions in the body – for example supporting immune cells, called neutrophils and T-lymphocytes, and helping the body to produce an immunity protein called interferon. Vitamin C also has anti-inflammatory properties and protects cells from oxidation (‘anti-oxidant’).

As reported by the news website, NutraIngredients, one of the report authors, Dr. Carrie Ruxton, said: “Current intakes of fruit and vegetables in Europe are nowhere near the five servings a day recommended by public health bodies. In fact, surveys show that a third of Europeans don’t eat any fruit and vegetables on a daily basis.

 “One of the best ways of guarding your health during these difficult times is to eat more healthily – and that includes a daily glass of orange juice plus another 4-5 servings of fruit and vegetables. Given that frozen, dried, and tinned options all count towards our daily recommendation, and contain vitamin C, it’s a simple way to guard our immune health”.