Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin found in fruits and vegetables. All adults aged 19 to 64 years of age need 40mg of vitamin C per day. It cannot be stored in the body, so it is required daily in the diet. A well-balanced diet is ideal to fulfill the daily requirement. The deficiency of vitamin C causes scurvy and may need supplementation. However, taking large amounts of supplements (more than 1000 mg per day) can cause stomach pain, flatulence, and diarrhea. These symptoms disappear once you stop taking vitamin C supplements. However, taking less than 1000 mg of vitamin C supplements daily is unlikely to cause harm.
Vitamin C has several important functions. It helps to maintain healthy skin, blood vessels, bones, and cartilage. Vitamin C helps to protect cells, collagen synthesis, and wound healing. It is a well-known anti-oxidant that protects the body from damage caused by free radicals. The deficiency leads to anemia, weakness, bleeding gums, skin bruises, and dry skin. Therefore, a vitamin C test is recommended to determine its deficiency in symptomatic individuals
What is a Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) test used for?
This test is ordered to detect a vitamin C deficiency in the body. It is used to assess whether levels of vitamin C in blood are adequate and if supplementation is required
Symptoms of Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) deficiency
Deficiency of vitamin C has the following symptoms
Fatigue and weakness
Joint pain
Swollen and bleeding gums
Easy bruising
Anemia
Dry skin
Hair loss
Who should get tested?
The following individuals who are at high risk of developing vitamin C deficiency should get tested
Elderly people
Alcoholics
Diabetics
AIDS patients
Malnourished individuals
Patients with malabsorption syndromes
Smokers
Dialysis patients
Pregnant and lactating mothers
Preparation for Test
The patient needs to fast overnight before the test. The patient should inform the doctor if taking any over-the-counter medications. It is important not to take vitamin supplements at least 24 hours before the test. A blood sample is collected by inserting a needle in the vein in the arm. The sample is further sent to the laboratory for analysis
Interpretation of Test Results
The lab results can be compared to the ranges mentioned below to determine deficiency.
· Moderate deficiency: 0.4 mg/dL to 2.0 mg/dL.
· Significant deficiency: Less than 0.2 mg/dL.
· Excess intake: More than 3 mg/dL.
FAQs
What are the good sources of vitamin C?
The following are good sources of vitamin C:
· Citrus fruits (oranges, kiwis, lemon, grapefruit)
· Bell peppers
· Tomatoes
· Guavas
· Strawberries
· Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower)
What do the results of the vitamin C test indicate?
Normal vitamin C levels indicate adequate intake of vitamin C. Low levels of vitamin C may indicate a deficiency which leads to symptoms like fatigue, easy bruising, and gum disease (scurvy). High levels of vitamin C are not generally a concern as excess of it is removed via urine.
Why get a vitamin C test done?
Your doctor may recommend this test if they suspect a deficiency based on your symptoms and diet. Testing is helpful if you take a high dose of supplements
How is the vitamin C test done?
The vitamin C test is a simple blood test. A healthcare professional draws a blood sample from your arm. You may need to fast overnight and avoid supplements and fruits close to the test
What is scurvy?
Scurvy is a condition caused by a severe deficiency of vitamin C (ascorbic acid). It was common among sailors who had little access to fresh vegetables and fruits. Symptoms of scurvy include bleeding gums, joint pain, easy bruising, anemia, fatigue, and weakness. It is treated by replenishing vitamin C levels in the body. This can be achieved by dietary changes and supplementation.
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