Vitamin C

Physiological Functions
Formation of collagen and intercellular cement
substance : formation of collagen and intercellular
cement substance in the capillaries, teeth, bones, etc.
Metabolism of tyrosine : Conversion of phenylalanine
to tyrosine and for the oxidation of tyrosine.
Absorption of iron : Reduces ferric iron to ferrous iron
and helps absorption of iron.
Wound healing : Rapid healing of wounds& formation
of connective tissues.
 Effects of deficiency
Infantile scurvy :
• loss of appetite and listlessness.
• Infant cries when legs and arms moved.
• observed swelling - ends of long bones.
Haemorrhages occur under skin.
Scurvy in adults :
• Characterized - general weakness, spongy bleeding
gums, loose teeth, swollen tender joints and
haemorrhages in various tissues under the skin.
 Dietary Sources
Ascorbic acid
mg/100g
Fruits : Rich sources :
Amla (Indian Gooseberry) 700
Guava 300
Good source
Lime juice 63
Orange 68
Pineapple 63
Mango, ripe 24
Papaya, ripe 46
Cashew fruit 60
Tomato fruit 32
Green Leafy Vegetables
Amaranth leaves 173
Brussels sprouts 72
Cabbage 124
Coriander leaves 135
Drumstick leaves 220
Ipomoea leaves 137
Spinach 48
Radish leaves 65
Fair sources
Apple 2-8
Banana (Plantain, ripe) 2-6
Jackfruit 10