Vitamin C

In the past people suffered from a disease called scurvy. Their gums bled, their skin became rough, their wounds did not heal, and their muscles wasted away. The cause of these symptoms was a lack of vitamin C; people ate preserved meats and foods and could not get fresh vegetables and fruits.

The best sources of vitamin C are oranges, lemons, grapefruit, cantaloupes, strawberries, and fresh vegetables. These fruits must be fresh because vitamin C is destroyed by heat, storage, or exposure to air.
Although today more people take vitamin C pills than any other supplement, some people still have scurvy, including some of the elderly, alcoholics, and the chronically ill.

Research shows that vitamin C reduces the severity of colds and can help prevent cancer. There is also evidence that vitamin C prevents heart disease, speeds wound healing, helps prevent gum disease, and helps protect us from pollutants such as cigarette smoke. Some recent research also shows that vitamin C has a positive effect on some mental disorders and increases life span.