Back to knowledge libraryVitamin C
What is Vitamin C?
Vitamin C (also known as L-ascorbic acid) is a water-soluble vitamin found in many foods including citrus fruits, peppers and broccoli. The UK government recommends an intake of 40mg per day for adults which is met by consuming one average sized orange or a serving (~80g) of red bell pepper.
What is the role of Vitamin C?
Vitamin C is involved in preventing cells damage. It is also a key part of collagen formation which helps to maintain bones, gums, teeth, and skin. Vitamin C also helps supports the function of the immune and nervous systems as well as wound healing.
What foods contain Vitamin C?
Foods rich in vitamin C include citrus fruits such as oranges as well as peppers, strawberries, blackberries, broccoli, Brussels sprouts and potatoes. Fruit juices such as orange juice is also a source of vitamin C but it is recommended to limit intake to 150ml due to the high sugar content.
Further Resources:
References:
National Health Service (2020). Vitamin C. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamins-and-minerals/vitamin-c/#:~:text=Vitamin%20C%2C%20also%20kn own%20as,helping%20with%20wound%20healing
[Accessed 04 September 2024].
National Institutes of Health (2021). Vitamin C. Available at:
https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminC-HealthProfessional/ [Accessed 04 September].
Written By:
Lucy Clarkson, SENR Nutritionist and Database Support, myfood24.