Vitamin C – ascorbic acid

Vitamin C, known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin essential to our health. Our body does not have the ability to make its own vitamin C, and we therefore must obtain it through our diets.

Vitamin C can be found in green peppers, citrus fruits, strawberries, tomatoes, broccoli, sweet and white potatoes, cantaloupe, papaya, mango, watermelon, pineapples, cranberries, raspberries, cabbage, brussels sprouts, and cauliflower. Natural and synthetic forms of ascorbic acid are chemically identical, and there is no identified difference in their biological activities or bioavailability.

Vitamin C is necessary for the synthesis of collagen. It is also a powerful antioxidant, promoting healthier skin, hair, bones, and other body tissues. Antioxidants fight free radicals, which destroy our cells. Antioxidants may also prevent premature aging.

Vitamin C deficiency may lead to many health problems, such as scurvy, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, cataracts, and loss of collagen.

Health benefits of vitamin C

• Powerful antioxidant
• Aids in wound healing
• Involved in normal growth and development
• Helps the body use protein, fat and carbohydrates
• Assists in immune system functioning

Recommendations

RDI/AI – 90 mg per day
UL – 2000 mg per day

Principal Author: M. Ofiyeva
Date of Initial Publication: 07/05/2007
Last Updated: 09/30/2007

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