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Vitamin C: Quick Facts

Internet URL

http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminC-QuickFacts/  

This document also available in Spanish

Sponsoring Agency

Office of Dietary Supplements, National Institutes of Health

Description

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble nutrient found in citrus fruits, and in many other fruits and vegetables. In the body, it acts as an antioxidant. In addition, vitamin C improves the absorption of iron from plant-based foods and helps the immune system work properly to protect the body from disease.

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Review Date

4/10/2012