Vitamin C

Ascorbic acid; Dehydroascorbic acid Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin. It is needed for normal growth and development.Water-soluble vitamins dissolve in water. Leftover amounts of the vitamin leave the body through the urine. Although the body keeps a small reserve of these vitamins, they have to be taken regularly to prevent a shortage in the body. Ascorbic acid, or vitamin C, aids in many functions of the body, including the absorption of iron. Large doses of vitamin C do not usually cause toxicity because, as a water-soluble vitamin, it is simply excreted in the urine. People who tend to form kidney stones may find their condition aggravated by vitamin C supplementation or megadosing. A lack of vitamin C is usually found in malnourished older adults, leading to nutritional disease such as scurvy. Like most vitamins, vitamin C may be obtained in the recommended amount with a well-balanced diet, including some enriched or fortified foods. Function Vitamin C is needed for the growth...