Vitamin C: Benefits and Sources

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that acts as an antioxidant in the body. It is essential for the growth and repair of tissues, wound healing, and overall immune function.
Category
Supplement
Where to get
Available in citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, and supplements in the form of tablets or capsules.
Prepared by Nick Harper, reviewed by Dr. David James Simpson

vitamins C FAQ


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Is vitamin C a krautrock song?

"Vitamin C" is a song by the krautrock band Can on their 1972 album Ege Bamyasi. Considering its short length and relatively standard song structure, it is one of the band's more conventional songs.

Is vitamin C a nutrient?

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is an essential nutrient that our body requires to function properly. It’s most often acquired through the food we eat — as a water-soluble substance it’s not easily dissolved, but our bodies absorb it so rapidly that we need to replenish it on a daily basis.

Are vitamin C supplements safe?

At recommended doses, vitamin C supplements are safe. However, they can cause upset stomach, heartburn, cramps, and headaches in some people. High doses of vitamin C can cause more intense symptoms, such as kidney stones and severe diarrhea.

Why is vitamin C important?

Humans, unlike most animals, are unable to synthesize vitamin C endogenously, so it is an essential dietary component [ 1 ]. Vitamin C is required for the biosynthesis of collagen, L-carnitine, and certain neurotransmitters; vitamin C is also involved in protein metabolism [ 1, 2 ].

What is a good source of vitamin C?

Other good food sources include red and green peppers, kiwifruit, broccoli, strawberries, Brussels sprouts, and cantaloupe (see Table 2) [ 8, 12 ]. Although vitamin C is not naturally present in grains, it is added to some fortified breakfast cereals.

vitamins C References

If you want to know more about vitamins C, consider exploring links below:

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