vitamin C

Question 1

what are the properties of vitamin C

Answer 1

-most unstable of all vitamins

-water soluble

-antioxidant

-acidic with a sour or sharp taste

Question 2

what are the sources of vitamin C

Answer 2

-kiwis

-oranges

-broccoli

-tomatoes

Question 3

what are the biological functions of vitamin C

Answer 3

-forms healthy gums and prevents inflammation

-promotes quick wound-healing

-forms collagen, which helps to hold cells together to form tissues, e.g. skin or blood vessels

-maintains the immune system by helping white blood cells to fight illness and infection

Question 4

what are the effects of deficiency of vitamin C

Answer 4

-scurvy, severe gum diseases. symptoms include inflamed or receding gums that cause teeth to become loose and fall out

-can lead to weakened body tissues, e.g. blood vessels that fracture easily, leading to bruising and bleeding

-wounds can take longer to heal, increasing the risk of infection

-prone to illness and infection such as colds and flu

Question 5

what is the recommended dietary allowance of vitamin C

Answer 5

children- 45mg
teenagers- 50-60mg
adults- 60mg
pregnancy and lactation- 80mg