Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is one of the water soluble vitamins. It is an essential nutrient and as such must be obtained from the diet. Some ascorbic acid is stored in the body, concentrated in organs with higher metabolic activity such as the adrenal glands, pituitary gland, brain, eyes, ovaries and testes. A dietary intake of vitamin C is needed to maintain these body stores as well as prevent deficiency and disruption to normal body functions.
Vitamin C has many functions. It is involved in the formation and maintenance of collagen, the basis of connective tissue, which is found in skin, ligaments, cartilage, vertebral discs, bones and teeth. Collagen gives support and shape to the body. Vitamin C aids wound healing and burns by facilitating the formation of connective tissue in scars.
An antioxidant nutrient, vitamin C helps protect the body from the harmful effects of free radicals. These are unstable compounds produced by our body that are capable of damaging tissues. It may also play a role in protecting vitamins A and E and some of the B vitamins from oxidation.
Vitamin C stimulates adrenal function and the release of the adrenal hormones adrenaline and noradrenaline, which help the body cope with stress.
Vitamin C may help prevent and treat infections and other diseases through its action as an antioxidant and its ability to stimulate the immune system. Ascorbic acid may activate specific white blood cells that aid antibody production and coordinate cellular immune functions.
Requirements for vitamin C are increased by stress, smoking, alcohol, allergies and antibiotics; in the elderly, diabetics and women using the oral contraceptive pill.