Tip 8. Antioxidant Attention: The Role of Vitamin C and E
Antioxidants have been widely celebrated for their role in maintaining our health and preventing diseases. Two such antioxidants, Vitamin C and E, deserve particular attention in your diet after a thyroidectomy. But why are these two vitamins important, and how can you ensure you’re getting enough of them in your diet?
Vitamins C and E play a significant role in our bodies. They both act as antioxidants, substances that help protect our cells from damage caused by free radicals – unstable molecules that the body produces as a reaction to environmental and other pressures.
After a thyroidectomy, your body is in a state of recovery, and cellular repair processes are ongoing. Here, vitamins C and E can aid in the healing process due to their antioxidant properties. They help safeguard your cells from potential damage, promoting faster and more efficient healing.
Vitamin C also plays a crucial role in collagen production, a protein that aids in the healing of wounds. It’s also key in maintaining the health of skin, blood vessels, and bones. Vitamin E, on the other hand, boosts the immune system, helping your body fight off invading bacteria and viruses.
You can find vitamin C in many fruits and vegetables, including oranges, strawberries, bell peppers, and broccoli. Vitamin E is abundant in nuts and seeds, spinach, and broccoli. (8)
