You probably thought vitamin C was just useful for warding off colds or giving you a little boost when winter drags on? This dietary supplement superstar does much more than support immunity. It also plays a key role in keeping our brain functioning properly.
A vitamin that fuels neurotransmitters
Without it, our brain cells could be running a bit sluggish. Vitamin C is essential for the production of two major neurotransmitters: dopamine and serotonin. These tiny chemical messengers are fundamental to regulating mood, managing stress and supporting emotional balance.
Feeling a bit down? Having trouble focusing or feeling mentally foggy? You might be a little low on vitamin C. According to Sabatini Laurent, a naturopath in Bordeaux, France, a deficiency can quickly affect both mood and mental sharpness.
A shield against oxidative stress
Vitamin C doesn’t just lift your spirits – it also protects your brain from external damage. As a powerful natural antioxidant, it neutralizes free radicals caused by oxidative stress, those unstable molecules known for accelerating cellular aging. And guess what? The brain, being a huge oxygen consumer, is especially vulnerable to this kind of damage.
Also, vitamin C also helps regulate glutamate, an amino acid often found in processed foods. In excess, glutamate becomes toxic to neurons. Luckily, vitamin C keeps watch and protects our neurotransmitter receptors, which are vital for communication between brain cells.
Better circulation for a sharper brain
Vitamin C has yet another trick up its sleeve. It strengthens the walls of tiny blood vessels in the brain, improving overall cerebral circulation. The result? A brain that’s better oxygenated and nourished, and therefore more alert and resistant to fatigue.
Another bonus: vitamin C promotes the production of collagen, a protein more commonly associated with youthful skin. But collagen is also important for the structure of capillaries, those tiny vessels that supply the brain.
How to get the most out of it
When it comes to food, vitamin C is found in citrus fruits, kiwis, strawberries, as well as vegetables like broccoli, red bell peppers and Brussels sprouts. But be careful: this precious nutrient is fragile – it doesn’t hold up well to heat, light or oxidation. The best way to consume it is raw or lightly steamed.
If you prefer supplements, here’s a tip: avoid taking them with coffee, tea, or sugar, as these can reduce vitamin C absorption. And for a “F1-performance” “it can be combined with vitamin D, B vitamins (B3, B6, B9, B12), known for their role in nervous system function, as well as omega-3s, which support smooth communication between neurons,” explained the expert.
A piece of fruit here, a crunchy veggie there, a healthy lifestyle and a splash of vitamin C – that’s all it takes to keep your head as fresh as your morning smoothie.
