| Health / Medical Topics |
Vitamin C
Pronunciation
Definition 1
A nutrient that the body needs in small amounts to function and stay healthy. Vitamin C helps fight infections, heal wounds, and keep tissues healthy. It is an antioxidant that helps prevent cell damage caused by free radicals (highly reactive chemicals). Vitamin C is found in all fruits and vegetables, especially citrus fruits, strawberries, cantaloupe, green peppers, tomatoes, broccoli, leafy greens, and potatoes. It is water-soluble (can dissolve in water) and must be taken in every day. Vitamin C is being studied in the prevention and treatment of some types of cancer. Also called ascorbic acid. (NCI Dictionary)
Definition 2
Class of water-soluble antioxidant vitamins which are cofactors in the biosynthesis of collagen, carnitine, and neurotransmitters, and can quench a variety of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. (DRI) (NCI Thesaurus/CRCH)
More information
Vitamin C is an antioxidant. It is important for your skin, bones, and connective tissue. It promotes healing and helps the body absorb iron.
Vitamin C comes from fruits and vegetables. Good sources include citrus, red and green peppers, tomatoes, broccoli, and greens. Some juices and cereals have added vitamin C.
Some people may need extra vitamin C:
• Pregnant/breastfeeding women
• Smokers
• People recovering from surgery
• Burn victims (NIH)
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE
