Vitamin C and scurvy

Overview

Vitamin C's roles in collagen, wound healing and iron absorption, sources including potatoes, scurvy, groups at risk, the adult RNI and losses in cooking.

What you need to know

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Questions from this subtopic

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1. 1

   What are the main functions of vitamin C?

   Model answer

   Vitamin C is needed to make collagen, the protein that holds together skin, blood vessels, gums, bones and connective tissue. Vitamin C also acts as an antioxidant and helps the body absorb non-haem iron.

2. 2

   Why does lack of vitamin C slow wound healing?

   Model answer

   Vitamin C is needed to form collagen, from which new tissue and scar tissue are built. Wounds heal slowly and may reopen when collagen cannot be made.

3. 3

   How does vitamin C increase the absorption of iron from plant foods?

   Model answer

   Vitamin C converts non-haem iron from the ferric form (Fe³⁺) to the more soluble ferrous form (Fe²⁺). Ferrous iron is absorbed more easily from the small intestine.

4. 4

   Name valuable food sources of vitamin C.

   Model answer

   Citrus fruits, blackcurrants, strawberries and kiwi fruit are rich in vitamin C. Peppers, broccoli, Brussels sprouts and dark green leafy vegetables are also good sources.

5. 5

   Why are potatoes an important source of vitamin C in the UK diet despite their modest content?

   Model answer

   Potatoes contain only moderate amounts of vitamin C, but they are eaten often and in large quantities. New potatoes contain more vitamin C than potatoes stored for months.

6. 6

   What is scurvy?

   Model answer

   Scurvy is the disease caused by severe vitamin C deficiency. Scurvy causes swollen and bleeding gums, loose teeth, bruising, slow wound healing and extreme tiredness.

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