What is Vitamin C?

Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is water-soluble vitamin essential for the normal functioning of the body. Humans cannot make their own vitamin C and therefore we must obtain it through our diet.

What does Vitamin C do?

Vitamin C is required to make collagen, an important component of blood vessels, tendons, ligaments and bone. Vitamin C may also be used to help shorten the duration of the common cold by helping to boost your immune system.

What are symptoms of Vitamin C deficiency?

Symptoms include bleeding gums, bruising easily, hair and tooth loss, and joint pain and swelling.

What causes deficiency?

A number of medications are known to decrease vitamin C. This includes estrogen containing oral contraceptives and even the regular use of regular strength aspirin.

How common is Vitamin C deficiency?

Severe vitamin C deficiency, also known as scurvy, is rare in developed countries. Eating a balanced diet is the best way to ensure you have adequate levels of vitamin C.

What foods is Vitamin C found in?

All fruits and vegetables contain some vitamin C namely: red peppers, Strawberries, citrus fruits, broccoli, potatoes and tomatoes.

Who should consider supplementing with Vitamin C?

Individuals who do not consume a diet with 3-5 servings of vegetables a day. Also, if you are fighting a cold, high doses of Vitamin C for a short period of time may help to shorten the duration of your cold

Pharmacist’s Recommendations

• SISU Vitamin C

• SISU Ester-C