VITAMIN - C

Ascorbic Acid Ascorbic acid is commonly known as vitamin C Lactone Ring

Vitamin C exists in two forms, Ascorbic acid Most vitamin C is present in this form Dehydroascobic acid. Both are equally well utilized by humans

Functions This vitamin is essential for hydroxylation of amino acids Proline and Lysine to hydroxyproline and hydroxylysine respectively Important components of collagen , found in cartilage, bone, dentin and vascular epithelium. Vitamin C is important in wound healing

Functions 2. Other functions include: Synthesis of epinephrine and antiinflamatory steroid by adrenal gland White blood cell functions phagocytosis Folic acid metabolism –Redues folic acid to THFA and helps in maturation of RBCs

Functions Tryptophan metabolism to serotonin by hydroxylation Tyrosine metabolism to homogenestic acid by oxidation Iron metabolism facilitates the conversion of ferric to ferrous state which is preferentially absorbed

Functions Reconversion of methaemoglobin to hemoglobin Helps in the synthesis of bile acid from cholesterol Antioxidant,may prevents cancer Catract formation risk is reduced

Absorption and Metabolism Vitamin C is quickly absorbed form gastro-intestinal tract and distributed in various tissues of body Highest concentration are found in adrenal gland, with appreciable amounts in kidneys, spleen, liver, pancreas, thymus and pituitary Once the tissues are saturated, is excreted by the kidneys

Recommended Dietary Allowances 60 mg/day is required by both males and females Children have higher vitamin C requirement than do adults, on a weight basis

Food Sources Vitamin C is present in variety of fruits and vegetables Fresh, frozen or raw fruits and vegetables are best sources. citrus fruits, cabbage, spinach etc. Vitamin C is easily destroyed by prolonged cooking at high temperatures due to oxidation

Deficiency manifestations Deficiency of vitamin C results in faulty/ defective formation of collagenous intracellular substances.

Clinical Manifestations Joint pains Poor growth Anemia Increased susceptibility to infections and Poor wound healing

Advanced form of vitamin C deficiency results in scurvy Manifested clinically as Easy bruising, Bleeding gums and Hemorrhages

Toxic Effects Generally considered to be nontoxic gastro-intestinal symptoms may be experienced by some individuals