We hear a lot about vitamin C all the time, but especially during the cold and flu season.  Vitamin C is well known for its virus fighting properties, but it does a lot more than that.  It has many benefits that make it one of the most important vitamins our bodies need.  It is also one of the easiest vitamins to take in naturally.  The vitamin C in orange juice is enough to keep our bodies happy for the whole day. 

Vitamin C does not just fight off those pesky viruses.  It is also considered an antioxidant.  Antioxidants are responsible for keeping us young by slowing down the onset of age-related ailments such as arthritis.  If you have allergies, it also works as an antihistamine.  It is also good for those who suffer with anemia.  Vitamin C aids in the absorption of iron.  It will also help cure a hangover by increasing the rate that alcohol is broken down in the system. 

With all of the health benefits, who would not want to make sure they get their daily dose of vitamin C?  The daily recommended amount is 60 mg, and it can be obtained in a number of ways.  The vitamin C in orange juice is more than enough to meet the daily requirement.  Just one cup, about 250 mL, of fresh orange juice has approximately 124 mg of vitamin C.   The frozen concentrate orange juice packs in even more vitamin C. The trick is to make sure you spread out your intake throughout the day.  Vitamin C will cycle through the body about every 12 hours. 

You must also be aware that vitamin C does deteriorate at a quick rate.  Pasteurization can destroy the nutrient as well as simply opening the container of orange juice.  Once the container has been opened, the vitamin C will deteriorate at a rate of 2% every day.  So, it is better to buy individual containers in order to prevent this loss. 

There is also such as thing as too much vitamin C.  You should monitor your intake to make sure you are not overdoing it.  Too much can cause diarrhea, an upset stomach, and kidney stones. 

Vitamin C is a helpful nutrient that will keep us young, keep us healthy, and keep us from staying drunk too long.  With any supplement, there is a risk if too much is taken.  Adhering to the recommended daily allowance will keep you healthy and safe.