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URL of this page: https://medlineplus.gov/vitaminc.html

Vitamin C

Also called: Ascorbic acid
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Basics

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Research

Resources

For You

Summary

Vitamins are substances that your body needs to grow and develop normally. Vitamin C is an antioxidant. It is important for your skin, bones, and connective tissue. It promotes healing and helps the body absorb iron.

Vitamin C comes from fruits and vegetables. Good sources include citrus, red and green peppers, tomatoes, broccoli, and greens. Some juices and cereals have added vitamin C.

Some people may need extra vitamin C:

  • Pregnant/breastfeeding women
  • Smokers
  • People recovering from surgery
  • Burn victims

Start Here

  • Vitamin C From the National Institutes of Health (National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements) Also in Spanish
  • Vitamin C (Harvard School of Public Health)

Specifics

Clinical Trials

Journal Articles References and abstracts from MEDLINE/PubMed (National Library of Medicine)

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Patient Handouts

The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health.