What we need to know about vitamin C

Vitamin C Vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin that is not stored in the body; therefore, we must consume our daily requirement for this essential vitamin each day. If not, we develop signs of vitamin C deficiency and ultimately scurvy. Any excess vitamin C is excreted in the urine. Vitamin C is a very effective antioxidant that prevents cell damage by the free radicals that contribute to the development of medical conditions like cancer and arthritis. These toxic free radicals also are the primary cause of aging. Most of the animal kingdom can produce vitamin C, guinea pigs, bats, sparrows and the large primates cannot. Common signs of vitamin C deficiency include dry hair, inflammation of the gums, easy bruising, decreased ability to fight infection, slow wound healing, swollen joints and anemia. Severe vitamin C deficiency results in bleeding from the hair follicles and gums, scurvy and ultimately death. Severe forms of vitamin C deficiency are rare in the United States but can be found in seniors who are malnourished and suffer from other chronic illnesses. Adults require 65 to 90 mgs of vitamin C a day. This requirement may be met by consuming one of the following vitamin C rich foods each day; one medium sized orange, one cup of kale or any dark green leafy vegetable, one guava, one cup of broccoli or one cup of strawberries.