In the midst of a global health crisis, the one thing that we can be certain about is taking our personal health practices into our own hands. The easiest, cleanest, and most fulfilling way to do this is by growing nutrient-rich foods right in your own backyard.
Vitamin C is a vitamin that lends itself so generously to the care and keeping of your immune system. You can be sure to get your daily dose of vitamin C, and other healthy nutrients, by starting a container garden today.
Keep reading for more information about how and why vitamin C is so good for you, and how you can start growing your own today.
What is Vitamin C?
Formally known as ascorbic acid, vitamin C is a water-soluble nutrient that can be found in certain foods. In our bodies, this powerhouse vitamin acts as an antioxidant, which helps to protect cells from damage.
The human body also needs vitamin C to produce collagen, which is a protein that helps wounds heal. Not to mention, vitamin C increases the uptake of iron from plant-based foods, while also helping the immune system work to indefatigably protect the body from sickness and disease.
How Much Do I Need?
The average adult requires between 75-90 milligrams of vitamin C daily. According to the National Institute of Health, individuals who receive less than 10mg of vitamin C per day for many weeks can get scurvy. Scurvy is an ailment that can cause inflammation of the gums, joint pain, fatigue, and poor wound healing. Additional signs of vitamin C deficiency include depression as well as swollen, bleeding gums, and loosening or loss of teeth.
Health Benefits of Vitamin C
It’s no secret that we need vitamin C in our lives right now. It might, however, surprise you to find out how beneficial it truly is to our lives. Take a look at this list of health benefits that accompany the presence of vitamin C in your system:
- Boosts Immunity
- Helps to Manage High Blood Pressure
- Protects your Memory
- Protects your Vision
- Strengthens your Cardiovascular System
If you’re interested in learning more about the great effects of vitamin C, read up on this article by Healthline.
Grow Your Own Vitamin C
Growing your own herbs and veggies makes a significant impact on your daily intake of vitamins and nutrients. When you buy canned vegetables, as opposed to growing your own, a large percentage of the nutrients that would normally be in that vegetable are lost. Additionally, fresh product bought at the store even loses some of its nutritional value over time; gardening is your best option!
A great way to start growing your vitamin C-rich garden is by focusing on herbs and leafy greens. Take a look at our Culinary Herb Garden Kit, Super Hero Garden Kit, and our Salad Garden Kit for your first step.
Vitamin C Rich Foods
We all know that oranges are the staple source of vitamin C, but if you don’t live in a tropical climate, you likely won’t find an orange tree growing in your yard.
Take a look at this list of foods that you can easily grow yourself, no matter where you live:
- Kale
- Brussels Sprouts
- Broccoli
- Bell Peppers
- Strawberries
- Tomatoes
- Thyme
- Parsley
- Chili Peppers
- Spinach
Get Growing
We are always more than happy to help you on your path to growing good. When you start your vitamin-rich garden today, our Grow Pro services will help you every step of the way – including pairing you with plants that will thrive based on your location.
Take a look at our Complete Beginner’s Guide to Container Gardening to get started today.
