Vitamin C deficiency symptoms, Vitamin C benefits

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Vitamin C is a vitamin that is water-soluble. It is essential for our normal development and growth.

For a range of metabolic reactions in plants and animals, ascorbate which is a vitamin C form, is required. It is produced almost by all organisms internally. Exceptions are notable mammalian, such as the entire Anthropoidea suborder (tarsiers, apes and monkeys), and chiroptera (bats). It is essential for guinea pigs and specific species of fish and birds.

Vitamin C deficiency causes disease scurvy in human beings. It is also used widely as a food addictive. The vitamin C pharmacophore is ascorbate ion. Ascorbate is anti-oxidant in living organisms as it gives the body protection against oxidative stress. It is also a cofactor in a few vital enzymatic reactions.

Functions of Vitamin C

Vitamin C is important for tissues repair and growth throughout the body. It is required to form collagen, a vital protein which is used to make tendons, skin, scar tissues, blood vessels and ligaments. It is important for the wounds to heal, and to repair and maintain bones, teeth, and cartilage.

Out of the many antioxidants, C vitamin is one of them. What are antioxidants? They are nutrients which block the damages caused by by-products, known as free radicals. Free radicals result when the body transforms food into energy.

Food that Contain Vitamin C

What are the foods that contain vitamin C? Foods that are high in vitamin C are citrus juices and fruits, green peppers, tomatoes, strawberries, white and sweet potatoes, broccoli, cantaloupe, leafy greens and turnip greens. Other excellent vitamin C sources include watermelon, papaya, brussels sprouts, mango, cauliflower, winter squash, cabbage, raspberries, red peppers, blueberries, pineapples, and cranberries.