VITAMIN C

• Also known as ascorbic acid.
• Functions in the body include synthesis of collagen (framework of our skin and bones), carnitine and nor epinephrine.
• It is involved in proper functioning of body’s immune response. It may also have antiviral properties and may reduce severity of cold symptoms. It is an antioxidant.
• Involved in protection against atherosclerosis and cancer.
• Involved in production of neurotransmitters especially serotonin.
• Helps with iron absorption.

The best food sources of Vitamin C are plant foods:

• Citrus fruits (orange, grapefruit, lime, and lemon)
• Papaya
• Strawberries
• Pineapple
• Kiwifruit
• Cantaloupe
• Cranberries
• Blueberries
• Apples
• Pears
• Bananas

Storage, heat and oxygen destroys Vitamin C.

Deficiency of Vitamin C causes scurvy manifested by bleeding into muscles, bleeding from gums, leg swelling, nerve pain, easy bruisability, cerebral hemorrhage, bone fractures.