VITAMIN C - ASCORBIC ACID

Occurrence and structure

Citrus fruits, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and potatoes have high levels Vitamin C - Salary. However, only if they have not been heated too much, as ascorbic acid is sensitive to heat. Almost all animals can produce vitamin C themselves, but humans - like other primates - cannot. Characteristic of its structure is a Lactone ring With two hydroxyl (OH) groups.
Other foods that contain a lot of vitamin C are: Aceroal cherry, rose hip, black currant, parsley and kale

function

vitamin C is an important antioxidant. This means that it protects cellular components from being destroyed by aggressive oxygen radicals, which are produced in some metabolic processes. Here it is oxidized itself.

It is also involved in many other synthetic pathways, including the following:

Collagen-Synthesis

Serotonin-Synthesis

Synthesis of lipophilic hormones (Steroid hormones)

Synthesis of Tetrahydrofolate (activated form of Folic acid, see above)

Deficiency symptoms

It manifests as scurvy, a disease that is also called "Seafarer's Disease" is known, as in the past the sailors often suffered from it because of too little nutrition with citrus fruits or fresh vegetables on long voyages. In particular, the collagen synthesis is restricted here, resulting in a weak connective tissue. This leads to symptoms such as tooth loss, joint pain and small skin bleeding. If the vitamin C deficiency persists, scurvy can lead to death.

Overview of vitamins

Water-soluble (hydrophilic) vitamins: