Immune Function, Cold and Flu, Antioxidant

The officially recommended daily allowance of vitamin C (90 mg per day) is an artificial figure. Most scientifically-determined optimal daily allowances range from 300 milligrams to 1.2 grams each day.

Vitamin C is considered an essential nutrient because the body cannot produce it on its own. Its many benefits include strengthening immunity, protecting cells from free radical damage, supporting the formation of bones, teeth and ligaments, and enhancing heart health, wound healing, iron absorption, and more.

Bioflavonoids, or simply flavonoids, are pigments found in most plants that give fruits and vegetables their colour. Over 8000 bioflavonoids have been identified, including anthocyanins from bilberries, ellagic acids from strawberries and pomegranates, curcumin from turmeric, catechins from green tea, proanthocyanidins from grapes, and quercetin from onions, just to name a few. They are potent antioxidants that have wide-ranging health benefits from supporting heart health, to enhancing immunity. It is thought that the antioxidant potential of natural fruits and vegetables is strong because flavonoids enhance the antioxidant activity of other nutrients such as vitamin C, allowing them to work more effectively.