According to a recent research published in the online version of Cell Stem Cell, vitamin C has shown promise in slowing down the ageing process by facilitating output of embryonic-like stem cells from adult cells.
By turning on a select set of genes, adult cells can be reprogrammed into cells with features similar to embryonic stem cells. Researchers found that adding vitamin C to reprogrammed cells (called induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs)) enhanced iPSC generation from both mouse and human cells. Vitamin C accelerated gene expression changes and promoted a more efficient transition to the fully reprogrammed state.
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that is abundant in citrus fruits. Vitamin C’s powerful antioxidant properties may be the reason why it assists in cell reprogramming; in fact its potent influence on cell reprogramming may be considered a step towards the reversal of the aging process, at the cellular level.
While the above findings may sound jargonic, the fact is antioxidant properties found in fruits and green vegetables are known to benefit our bodies, and thereby also our external appearances.
According to dermatologists, exposure to sunlight and pollutants in the atmosphere accounts for much of the damage to your skin. Eating foods rich in antioxidants, such as vitamins A, C, and E, helps to prevent this damage. Foods rich in antioxidants also help to slow ageing at the cellular level.
Vitamin C also has other health benefits such as protection against blood disorders such as anemia; research has also shown that inclusion of sufficient amount of vitamin C in your diet can reduce the risk of heart disease.
Recommended sources of Vitamin C are: Citrus fruits, green peppers, sprouts, broccoli, green leafy vegetables, strawberries, and raw cabbage.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
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