Role: An antioxidant. Needed for collagen synthesis: wound healing, blood vessel integrity, maintenance of gums, bone growth and maintenance. Aids iron absorption. Involved in thyroxin metabolism; synthesis of neurotransmitters, carnitine, and amino acids.
Deficiency: Scurvy deficiency disease: Broken blood vessels with tiny hemorrhages; easily bruised; bleeding gums and loose or missing teeth; pain in joints, bones, muscles; non-healing wounds, bedsores; delayed bone growth, bone fragility; anemia. Severe scurvy can be fatal.
Sources: Citrus fruits, kiwi, strawberries, peppers, cabbage-family vegetables, dark leafy greens, potatoes, melon, papaya.
Toxicity: May cause diarrhea. Tooth erosion. Excessive iron absorption. Buildup of oxalates and uric acid may cause kidney stones. Interference with diagnostic testing and with some medications.