vitamin c

2. vitamin c • L-ascorbic acid, ascorbate • Synthesized from glucose by most animals • Vitamin C is an electron donor

3. Functions of Vitamin C • Enhances absorption of iron • reduces iron to more absorbable ferrous form • chelates with ferrous ion to make it more soluble

4. Functions of Vitamin C • Involved in the biosynthesis of the protein, collagen, found in connective tissues such as cartilage, ligaments, and tendons

5. Functions of Vitamin C • Biosynthesis of the catecholamine norepinephrine(neurotransmitter) • Bile acid synthesis

6. Other functions • Promotes the healing of cuts, abrasions and wounds • Helps fight infections. • Inhibits conversion of irritants in tobacco smoke and certain foods into cancer-causing substances. • Appears to dilate blood vessels and thereby lessen the risk of developing high blood pressure and heart disease. • Helps regulate cholesterol levels.

7. Citrus fruits Potatoes Green peppers Cauliflower Broccoli Strawberries Romaine lettuce Spinach Easily lost through cooking Sensitive to heat Sensitive air Food Sources of Vitamin C

8. Daily requirements

9. Deficiency of vitamin C • When there is a shortage of Vitamin C, various problems can arise like : • Scurvy disease ;a disease characterized by weakness, fatigue, anemia, swollen joints, bleeding gums and loose teeth and skin discoloration due to"pinpoint" hemorrhages under the skin and a tendency to bruise easily

10. Deficiency of vitamin C • poor wound healing • Edema (water retention) • weakness, a lack of energy • poor digestion • painful joints • bronchial infection and colds .

11. Toxicity • Diarrhea • nausea • skin irritation • burning upon urination • depletion of the mineral copper. • development of kidney stones due to oxalate formation or hemochromatosis or other diseases related to excessive iron accumulation.

12. Thank you! 