Happy Vitamin C Day!
April 4th 2024 marks National Vitamin C Day. Here at Rio Health, we thought, what better way to celebrate than to tell you all about the vitamin C-richness of the Amazonian fruit, as well as its many other health benefits!
While some sources suggest that camu-camu translates to mean “sour-sour”, others hint the origins of the name are inspired by the sound made by the berries as they fall into the rivers underneath before being eaten by nearby fish.
Either way, this unique “superfruit” boasts a range of benefits; with over 2,000 mg per 100g of vitamin C, camu-camu is thought to be the most concentrated vitamin C source of any South American fruit - and maybe even overall. For comparison, an orange contains a mere 53.2mg of vitamin C per 100g. This makes camu-camu almost 40 times as full of vitamin C goodness!
The Brazil-based berry has been used by native Amazonians for centuries but was not seen as a food source until more recently, due to its sour taste. Popular among locals, however, camu-camu is commonly mixed with milk and sugar to be made into jams and other compotes.
Why Vitamin C?
Vitamin C is a cornerstone of immune health and plays a vital role in supporting the body's defence mechanisms and helping to ward off infections and illness. By incorporating camu-camu into your daily routine, you can give your immune system the boost it needs to stay strong and resilient, particularly during times of increased susceptibility to colds, flu, and other common ailments. While springtime bringing longer and lighter evenings, potentially more sunlight and a general sense of improved health and wellbeing, now is the perfect time to invest in your immunity as it improves naturally and give yourself the best chance to thrive!
Antioxidant Protection
In addition to its immune-boosting properties, vitamin C is also a potent antioxidant that helps combat oxidative stress and neutralise harmful free radicals in the body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause cellular damage and can contribute to the ageing process, inflammation, and chronic disease. By eliminating these dangerous molecules, vitamin C helps protect cells and tissues from oxidative damage, promoting overall health and longevity. With camu-camu's rich antioxidant content, you can give your body the support it needs to flourish from the inside out.
Collagen Synthesis and Skin Health
Vitamin C plays a crucial role in collagen synthesis, the process by which your body produces collagen, a structural protein that provides strength and elasticity to your skin, joints, and connective tissues. Collagen is essential for maintaining youthful skin, healthy joints, and strong bones, and adequate vitamin C intake is necessary for supporting collagen production. By incorporating camu-camu into your daily regimen, you can promote skin health, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, and support your body’s overall vitality.
Mood Enhancement and Mental Clarity
Beyond its physical health benefits, vitamin C also plays a vital role in mental and emotional health. Research suggests that vitamin C may help reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety, improve mood, and enhance cognitive function. Vitamin C is also involved in the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, which can regulate mood and promote feelings of happiness and wellbeing. By optimising your vitamin C intake with camu-camu supplementation, you can support mental clarity, boost energy levels, and elevate your mood naturally.
Incorporating Camu-Camu into Your Routine
Adding camu-camu to your daily regimen is simple and convenient. Camu-camu powder can be easily mixed into smoothies, juices, or water for a quick and delicious boost of vitamin C. Alternatively, our capsules offer a convenient option for on-the-go supplementation, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of this superfood whether at home or on the go. With its unparalleled vitamin C content and a host of additional health benefits, this berry is a true nutritional marvel that deserves a place in every wellbeing routine.
Camu-camu is much more than just a humble berry, but a powerhouse of nutrition with the potential to transform your health and vitality. Whether you're looking to boost your immune system, support collagen production, or enhance your mood and energy levels, camu-camu offers a natural solution backed by centuries of traditional use and modern scientific research. Embrace the incredible benefits of camu-camu and embark on a path to radiant health today! Explore our vitamin C collection and find your best way to wellness.
