For centuries, humankind has faced the consequences of vitamin deficiencies, yet it wasn’t until the 16th to 18th centuries that the connection between health and nutrition became clear. As Catholics, we understand the value of caring for the body as a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). One such vital nutrient, Vitamin C, plays an important role in maintaining our physical well-being. Let’s explore the significance of Vitamin C, both in our bodies and in the historical journey of discovery.
A History of Discovery
Though we’ve only known about vitamins for around 100 years, the effects of their deficiencies can be traced back centuries. “Between the 16th and 18th centuries alone, an estimated 2,000,000 sailors died of scurvy.” This disease, caused by a lack of Vitamin C, ravaged naval expeditions, claiming the lives of countless sailors. Yet, as with many of God’s blessings, the answer was always there, waiting to be discovered.
In the 1700s, a Scottish physician cracked the code, “finding a deficiency in Vitamin C came from a lack of citrus fruit.” This discovery was a divine intervention that helped save lives and led to a practical solution: “He advised Royal Navy officers to eat lemons and limes.” Through this simple yet effective remedy, Vitamin C began its journey to becoming an essential nutrient for human health.
The Science Behind Vitamin C
We now know that Vitamin C—also known as ascorbic acid—is crucial for our health. As Catholics, we are reminded that God created our bodies wonderfully, and each nutrient serves a specific purpose in His design. As the article explains, “Vitamin C repairs tissue, bones, cartilage, helps your body absorb iron, and even forms collagen, a protein found in everything from your skin to your blood vessels.” These functions are vital for maintaining the body’s integrity and vitality.
However, while Vitamin C is beneficial, it does not provide complete immunity from illness. It “cannot prevent the common cold,” but “a healthy dose of Vitamin C can reduce the length of your illness.” This teaches us that while our bodies may be fragile and susceptible to suffering, God has equipped us with tools—like Vitamin C—to help support and heal our bodies in times of need.
The Importance of Proper Nutrition
Since our bodies do not produce Vitamin C naturally, it is essential to receive it from external sources. As Catholic stewards of our bodies, we are called to nourish ourselves with wholesome foods that sustain our health. “When looking for your daily dose, choose foods such as oranges, strawberries, broccoli, or bell peppers.” These foods are not only a gift from God’s creation but also a reminder of His provision for us in every season.
A Promise of Healing
In addition to supporting basic bodily functions, Vitamin C has shown promise in more serious applications. It has been studied for its potential role in treating certain cancers. “When ascorbic acid breaks down, it releases hydrogen peroxide,” a substance that, according to a 2017 study, can “flood cancer cells with Hydrogen Peroxide” and selectively eliminate them. While more research is needed, the article notes, “it’s a promising path to an invaluable cure.” This discovery, like so many others in the realm of science and medicine, reminds us that God’s healing power works through human ingenuity and the natural world.
A Call to Care for the Body
As Catholics, we are reminded in the Catechism that “the human body is a temple of the Holy Spirit” (1 Corinthians 6:19), and we are called to honor God by taking care of our physical health. Through our understanding of the benefits of Vitamin C and other essential nutrients, we are reminded that God provides for our health in both natural and miraculous ways. May we continue to seek the nourishment that sustains us and trust in His plan for healing, both for ourselves and the world around us.
Vitamin C is more than just a nutrient; it is a reminder of the divine order in creation and God’s care for our bodies. As we strive to maintain our physical health through diet, exercise, and prayer, let us remember to give thanks for the abundance of nutrients He has provided, which help us to fulfill our mission as stewards of His creation.
