Abstract
Vitamin C is a potent reducing agent in mammals and plants. Humans rely on vitamin C for the activity of numerous enzymes, and vitamin C status impacts physiological health, including risk for infections, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. The recommended intake for vitamin C in adults varies by gender and by country (from 45 to 110mg/d). The Tolerable Upper Intake Level is 2000mg/d. Supplemental vitamin C should not replace high intakes of fruits and vegetables, but it may offer health benefits under certain circumstances. Low intake of fruits and vegetables increases risk for scurvy, a concern for isolated populations, refugees, the critically ill, and the elderly. Smokers and patient populations are also at risk for suboptimal vitamin C status. Current vitamin C deficiency rates in developed countries range from 8% to 19%. Individuals with a history of renal stone formation or conditions associated with iron overload should use caution when supplementing with vitamin C.
Original language | English (US) |
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Title of host publication | Present Knowledge in Nutrition |
Subtitle of host publication | Basic Nutrition and Metabolism |
Publisher | Elsevier |
Pages | 155-169 |
Number of pages | 15 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9780323661621 |
ISBN (Print) | 9780128198421 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Jan 1 2020 |
Keywords
- Antioxidant
- Immunoenhancement
- Injection therapy
- Scurvy
- Vascular health
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Health Professions
- General Medicine