Vitamin C         

Essential for

the manufacture of collagen, a protein which forms the basis of connective tissues such as bones, teeth and cartilage
wound-healing
healthy immune and nervous systems
adrenal hormone production
as an antioxidant to help prevent disease

Absorption and metabolism

Daily intake is necessary.

Deficiency

Severe deficiency leads to scurvy with symptoms of bleeding gums, joint pain, easy bruising, dry skin, fluid retention, and depression. Marginal deficiencies may play a role in the develop- ment of cancer, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, lowered immunity, diabetes and cataracts.

Sources

Good sources include fruits and vegetables.

Daily recommended dietary intakes

Men                        60 mg

Women                  60 mg

Pregnancy             70 mg

Lactation                95 mg

Toxic effects of excess intake

These include diarrhea, nausea, stomach cramps and skin rashes.

Interactions

It aids iron absorption and acts with other antioxidant vitamins. Smoking, pollutants, aspirin, alcohol, estrogen, antibiotics and steroids raise requirements.

Therapeutic uses of supplements

These include the treatment and prevention of many disorders including cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, cancer, gallstones, cataracts, diabetes, asthma and infections.

Cautions

Large doses may cause kidney stones in kidney disease sufferers and may also affect blood and urine test results.

Vitamin C Categories:

Vitamin C
Vitamin C health
Vitamin C absorption
Vitamin C deficiency
Vitamin C sources
Vitamin C recommended daily
Vitamin C dosage
Vitamin C overdose
Vitamin C supplements
Vitamin C interactions
High dose vitamin C

Other Vitamins:

Vitamin A
Carotenes
Beta carotene
Lycopene
Lutein
Thiamin
Riboflavin
Niacin
Vitamin B6
Folate
Vitamin B12
Biotin
Pantothenic acid
Vitamin C
Vitamin D
Vitamin E
Vitamin K