Tuesday, September 9, 2008

Ascorbic Acid

Ascorbic Acid
Ascorbic acid or vitamin C is required for the formation of intercellular substance in the body, including dentine, cartilage, and the protein network of bone. Hence, it is important in tooth formation, the healing of broken bones, and the healing of the wounds. It may be important to oxidation-reduction reactions in the body and to the production of certain hormones.

Deficiency of vitamin C cause scurvy (spongy gums, loose teeth, swollen joints, hemorrhages in various tissues, etc.) and impaired healing of wounds. Orange juice is an excellent source of vitamin C. Tomato juice, if it has been processed properly, is a fair source of this vitamin. Green pepper, cabbage, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts are excellent to good sources of this vitamin C, while other vegetables such as peas, spinach, and lettuce are good to fair sources. Many fruits contain fair amounts of vitamin C.
Ascorbic Acid