Vitamin C Facts
Vitamin C facts. For information on Vitamin C, including its uses, recommended intakes, side effects, the role of Vitamin C, deficiency, food contents and interesting facts.
Chemical name - 2-oxo-L-threo-hexono-1,4- lactone-2,3-enediol
The human body is able to store only a limited amount of vitamin C and the stores therefore have to be replenished. If the body is without a store or source of Vitamin C for a prolonged period Vitamin C deficiency can set in, with the best know case of such being that of scurvy. Scurvy was a common problem for sailors who spent a long time at see without access to fresh fruit or vegetables. Because of this and due to a recommendation from John Woodall surgeon to the British East India Company in 1617 stores of lemon juice were kept on board ships that were set to be at sea for long periods of time.
The signs of Vitamin C deficiency can include muscle weakness, joint and muscle pains, leg sores, fatigue and bleeding gums.
Side effects of Vitamin C are rare but have been reported and include, nausea, heartburn, vomiting, headaches and abdominal cramps. The intake of very high doses of Vitamin C can lead to the formation of kidney stones and diarrhoea.
Interesting Fact - The Inhabitant of the Arctic (Eskimos) have a very low intake of fruit or vegetables. They get the vast majority of their Vitamin C and other vitamins and minerals from the meat they eat. The skin of the Beluga Whale and Narwhals are particularly high in vitamin and mineral content it is eaten raw and is highly prized by these people. Much meat in general has Vitamin C content, however it is destroyed by the cooking process.