Ascorbic acid is the scientific name for vitamin C, one of the most important nutrients in our diets. Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin, meaning the body does not store it in significant amounts. Therefore, we need a steady daily supply of ascorbic acid in our diets to prevent vitamin C deficiency in the serum, the part of the blood that contains nutrients. A deficit in the amount of vitamin C can lead to a condition known as scurvy.
Sources of Ascorbic Acid
All fruits and vegetables contain vitamin C. Citrus fruits and juices, tomatoes, strawberries and broccoli in particular have high levels ascorbic acid. Other natural sources of vitamin C include red and green peppers, cantaloupes, and fortified breakfast cereals. Because it is a water-soluble vitamin, prolonged storage, heat, steaming and microwaving can decrease the amount of ascorbic acid in these foods. The recommended daily amount of vitamin C to maintain appropriate serum levels varies with age and sex. In general, adults need between 75 and 90 milligrams of vitamin C a day. Children require less while breast-feeding women need more.
Function of Ascorbic Acid?
Vitamin C is important for the production of collagen, a protein necessary for appropriate wound healing. According to the National Institutes of Health's Office of Dietary Supplements, ascorbic acid is also important for the healthy maintenance of the skin, ligaments, tendons, and blood vessels. Vitamin C is an antioxidant, blocking the action of certain harmful substances called free radicals that can cause cancer and heart disease. Antioxidants like ascorbic acid also decrease the damage to the body caused by environmental pollutants and cigarette smoke.
Causes of Deficiency
The main cause of ascorbic acid deficiency is inadequate intake of foods containing vitamin C. This was frequently seen in the eighteenth century, among sailors on long sea voyages who only had perishable fruits and vegetables available to eat and therefore did not have a well rounded diet. In present times, it is seen among the malnourished elderly. According to the Merck Manual, the need for vitamin C increases during febrile illnesses, inflammatory conditions with diarrhea, and in people suffering from burns, thyroid disease, and protein deficiency.
Symptoms of Deficiency
Ascorbic acid deficiency results in a condition called scurvy. The symptoms of scurvy include weakness, irritability, weight loss, and body and joint aches. Other symptoms include swollen and bleeding gums, loose teeth that eventually fall off, and infections of the mouth and gums. Because of its importance to wound healing, ascorbic acid deficiency leads to poor healing, easy bruising, and spontaneous bleeding.
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