Sue Bedford (MSc Nutritional Therapy)
What is vitamin C?
Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin, and as we do not make it in the body and are also unable to store it, we rely on our diet to obtain what we need. Excess vitamin C is rapidly excreted from the body and lost from foods, especially when they are boiled, stored for long periods of time and exposed to air (after cutting/chopping). To obtain adequate amounts it is important to eat at least 5 portions of fruit and vegetables per day ( at least 7 is ideal). The recommended daily intake of vitamin C varies by age, sex, and life stage, but for adults, it typically ranges from 65 to 90 milligrams per day. Everyone is unique, so if you are unsure what is right for you check with your G.P or Qualified Nutritional Therapist/ Dietician.
Vitamin C plays a crucial role in fertility for several reasons:
Antioxidant Protection: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the body’s cells, including sperm and egg cells, from damage caused by free radicals. High levels of free radicals can lead to oxidative stress, which has been linked to reduced fertility in both men and women.
Sperm Health: Vitamin C is essential for the health of sperm cells. It helps to maintain the integrity of sperm DNA and prevents sperm from clumping together (agglutination), which can hinder their ability to swim effectively.
Hormone Regulation: Vitamin C is involved in the synthesis of sex hormones, including oestrogen and progesterone in women and testosterone in men. Proper hormone balance is critical for reproductive health.
Cervical Mucus: In women, vitamin C helps maintain the quality and quantity of cervical mucus. Adequate cervical mucus is necessary for sperm to move through the cervix and into the uterus to reach the egg.
Ovulation Support: Vitamin C can help regulate the menstrual cycle and support regular ovulation in women, which is essential for fertility.
