Vitamin C

Vitamin C is also known as ascorbic acid and has several important functions.

For example, it:

  • helps protect cells and keeps them healthy
  • is necessary for the maintenance of healthy connective tissue, which gives support and structure for other tissue and organs
  • helps wound healing

    • A lack of vitamin C can lead to scurvy.

    Good sources of vitamin C

    Vitamin C is found in a wide variety of fruit and vegetables. Good sources include:

  • oranges and orange juice
  • red and green peppers
  • strawberries
  • blackcurrants
  • broccoli
  • brussels sprouts
  • potatoes

    • How much vitamin C do I need?

    Adults need 40mg of vitamin C a day. Vitamin C cannot be stored in the body, so you need it in your diet every day. You should be able to get all the vitamin C you need from your daily diet.

    What happens if I take too much vitamin C?

    Taking large amounts (more than 1,000mg per day) of vitamin C can cause:

  • stomach pain
  • diarrhoea
  • flatulence

    • These symptoms should disappear once you stop taking vitamin C supplements.

    What does the Department of Health advise?

    You should be able to get all the vitamin C you need by eating a varied and balanced diet. If you take vitamin C supplements, do not take too much because this could be harmful.Taking less than 1,000mg of vitamin C supplements is unlikely to cause any harm.

    Where to buy now

    Click here to buy Vitamin C from Holland & Barrett