Vitamin C is a water-soluable vitamin. It is essential for formation of collagen in skin, helps maintain blood vessels, bones, and teeth.

Vitamin C deficiency causes:

• Scurvy: Deteriorating muscles, unhealing wounds, weight loss, loss of appetite, irritability, and rough, dry skin.

Too much vitamin C causes:

• Some symptoms of scurvy
• Kidney stones
• Diarrhea
• Breakdown of red blood cells

Good sources of vitamin C:

• Orange juice
• Citrus fruits
• Tomatoes
• Strawberries
• Green Peppers
• Potatoes

References:

• National Research Council. Recommended Dietary Allowances, 10th Edition. Washington: 1989.
• Brody, Jane. Jane Brody's Nutrition Book. Bantam Books. 1987.