Vitamin C - ascorbic acid
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Occurrence and structure
Citrus fruits, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and potatoes have high levels Vitamin C - Salary. However, only if they have not been heated too much, as ascorbic acid is sensitive to heat. Almost all animals can produce vitamin C themselves, but humans - like other primates - cannot. Characteristic of its structure is a Lactone ring With two hydroxyl (OH) groups.
Other foods that contain a lot of vitamin C are: Aceroal cherry, rose hip, black currant, parsley and kale
function
vitamin C is an important antioxidant. This means that it protects cellular components from being destroyed by aggressive oxygen radicals, which are produced in some metabolic processes. Here it is oxidized itself.
It is also involved in many other synthetic pathways, including the following:
- Collagen-Synthesis
- Serotonin-Synthesis
- Synthesis of lipophilic hormones (Steroid hormones)
- Synthesis of Tetrahydrofolate (activated form of Folic acid, see above)
Deficiency symptoms
It manifests as scurvy, a disease that is also called "Seafarer's Disease" is known, as in the past the sailors often suffered from it because of too little nutrition with citrus fruits or fresh vegetables on long voyages. In particular, the collagen synthesis is restricted here, resulting in a weak connective tissue. This leads to symptoms such as tooth loss, joint pain and small skin bleeding. If the vitamin C deficiency persists, scurvy can lead to death.
Overview of vitamins
Water-soluble (hydrophilic) vitamins:
- Vitamin B1 - thiamine
- Vitamin B2 - riboflavin
- Vitamin B3 - niacin
- Vitamin B5 - pantothenic acid
- Vitamin B6 - pyridoxal / pyridoxine / pyridoxamine
- Vitamin B7 - biotin
- Vitamin B9 - folic acid
- Vitamin B12 - Cobalamin
Fat-soluble (hydrophobic) vitamins:
- Vitamin A - retinol
- Vitamin C - ascorbic acid
- Vitamin D - calcitriol
- Vitamin E - tocopherol
- Vitamin K - phylloquinone / menaquinone