What is vitamin C?

Vitamin C or ascorbic acid is a water-soluble vitamin which is important for cellular growth and repair. It has a wide range of roles in the body, including in immune health, iron absorption and wound healing. Vitamin C cannot be synthesised by humans and needs to be acquired through dietary means. Sources of vitamin C include fruits such as oranges, strawberries and blackcurrants as well as vegetables including peppers, broccoli, potatoes and brussel sprouts. Vitamin C deficiency is common in individuals who do not have a healthy diet. Symptoms of vitamin C deficiency include; slow healing, dry and damaged skin, swollen joints and easy bruising. Extreme cases result in the disease Scurvy. Symptoms of Scurvy include anaemia, fatigue, unexplained bleeding, swollen and painful limbs and loss of teeth.

Why take the test?

This test measures the level of vitamin C in the blood. It is used to diagnose vitamin C deficiency or as part of a general nutrition test.