Vitamin C is also required to activate folic acid, for the synthesis of norepineprine, serotonin, tyrosine, adrenal steroid hormones and carnitine, and to convert cholesterol to bile acids. It functions as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage, promotes iron absorption, and assists in detoxification. Early signs of vitamin C deficiency include fatigue, weakness, irritability, weight loss and vague muscle and joint pains. Other signs of scurvy are dry skin and eyes, hair loss, arthritis, anemia and decreased resistance to infections. While overt scurvy is uncommon in the US, low vitamin C reserves are relatively comm on, especially in the elderly and cancer patients.
Chronic diarrhea increases loss of vitamin C in the stool.
Best sources are peppers, greens, broccolli and brussels sprouts. Good sources include citrus fruits, cabbage and strawberries. Vitamin C is quickly destroyed by heat and exposure to air. Back to the Index. 95 mg Back to the Index.