Vitamin C, one of the most well known sources of dietary antioxidants, offers a wide range of support for the human body. It is an antioxidant and free radical scavenger. It supports the body's defense system by promoting white blood cell function and activity, interferon levels, antibody responses, and secretion of thymic hormones. It is essential for the formation and maintenance of intercellular ground substance and collagen. Vitamin C aids in the absorption of iron and the formation of red blood cells and converts folic acid to active folinic acid. It maintains healthy mast cell function and supports lymphocyte formation. Vitamin C is also required for the synthesis of carnitine and steroids.