The benefits of vitamin C on our immunity are already well known. Overall, this component makes us more protected against viral diseases and increases our recovery capacity in case of illness. However, a new study from the University of Flinders in Australia has shown that the consequences of lack of vitamin C go beyond low immunity. According to the researchers, the deficit will result in problems in the brain, such as difficulty in cognition, concentration and memory.
Read more: Check out 6 foods with more vitamin C than oranges.
see more
Better Health in Two Days: The Surprising Effectiveness of End Workouts…
Ministry of Health expands HIV treatment with new drug…
The role of vitamin C in our brain
The research results could demonstrate how much our brain needs vitamin C to function well. On the other hand, the absence of the component can make us more susceptible to the symptoms of various mental problems. For example, overcoming depression, anxiety and compulsive disorders would be directly related to the frequent consumption of vitamin C.
Therefore, people who do not have the adequate amount could face greater difficulties in getting out of these stages. Including, research talks about the chances of developing mental confusion, poor memory and even dementia when there's not enough vitamin.
Consequences of lack of vitamin C for the elderly
The study also pointed out that the consequences of the deficit would be greater in older people. Those would need vitamins even more to maintain the brain, which becomes slower with age. Therefore, any difference in important nutrients can have serious consequences for these individuals.
To reach this conclusion, the researchers observed 160 patients who were over 75 years old. So the team carefully analyzed vitamin C levels against the elderly's ability to cognize and concentrate. In this way, a greater presence of mental confusion was noticed in those whose vitamin was lacking. On the other hand, patients with higher concentrations of the nutrient demonstrate greater ease with day-to-day tasks. Furthermore, when compared to younger people, the lack of vitamin C would be more visible and dangerous.