Vitamin C is also known as ascorbic acid and has several important functions. For example, it:
Vitamin C is also known as ascorbic acid and has several important functions. For example, it:
A lack of vitamin C can lead to scurvy.
Vitamin C is found in a wide variety of fruit and vegetables. Good sources include:
Adults need 40mg of vitamin C a day. Vitamin C cannot be stored in the body, so you need it in your diet every day. You should be able to get all the vitamin C you need from your daily diet.
Taking large amounts (more than 1,000mg per day) of vitamin C can cause:
These symptoms should disappear once you stop taking vitamin C supplements. You should be able to get all the vitamin C you need by eating a varied and balanced diet. If you take vitamin C supplements, do not take too much because this could be harmful. Taking less than 1,000mg of vitamin C supplements is unlikely to cause any harm.
Important: Our website provides useful information but is not a substitute for medical advice. You should always seek the advice of your doctor when making decisions about your health.