May 14: Vitamin C Flashcards
1
Q
Vitamin C function
A
Needed in the formation of collagen, a structural protein
Aids in iron absorption
Antioxidant: protects fat and other substances against oxidation
2
Q
What does deficiency of vitamin C cause?
A
Scurvy
3
Q
Scurvy symptoms
A
Swollen, bleeding gums
Loose teeth
Sore, painful joints
Fragile bones
Hemorrhages under skin
Death
4
Q
Another name for vitamin C
A
Ascorbic acid
5
Q
Do all animals require vitamin C?
A
Not required by most animals, but needed by humans, other primates, and guinea pigs require vitamin C
6
Q
Vitamin C RDA
A
75 mg/day for females
85 mg/day when pregnant
90 mg/day for males
People who smoke +35 mg/day
7
Q
Do vitamin C supplements provide health benefits?
A
Not really
8
Q
Food sources of vitamin C
A
Fruits and vegetables
