Vitamin C

In 1928, Albert Szent-Gyorgyi discovered Vitamin C> He won Nobel Prize in 1937 for its discovery.
Man , monkey are unable to synthesize vitamin C which make them dependable on exogenous sources.
Vitamin C is NOT an Ascorbic Acid. Ascorbic acid is a PART of Vitamin C Complex which also, in addition , includes Vitamin P complex ( bioflavonoids).
Through recorded history, Scurvy was the scourge of armies, explorers, and sailors on extended trips without fresh food, until they learned to include an adequate source of vitamin C, such as lime juice, in their diet.
Function of Vitamin C:
1.Collagen synthesis
2.Degradation of protein to amino acids
3.Synthesis of neurotransmitters.
4.Most active reducing agent
Collagen is the most abundant structural protein in the body tissues. Collagen is a foundation of structural integrity of all organs.Collagen ( and vitamin C) is essential for the deposition of the calcium phosphate crystals to form mature bone.Vitamin C provides the collagen needed for elastic vessel wall and required for synthesis of the essential neurotransmitters-epinephrine and serotonin.Vitamin C is important for detoxification, stress response,reduces susceptibility to infections.
Vitamin C is needed for the hydroxylation of the amino acids lysine and proline to proto-collagen molecule.
Initially, scorbutic patients presents with weakness, lassitude, irritability, and vague aching pains in the joints and muscles.They may complain of weight loss. Later, as the disease progresses easy bruising and even hematoma in the skin and muscles develop.
The gums become swollen, red and bleed easily.
Perifollicular hyperkeratotic papule develop.
Deficiency in the USA due to inadequate dietary intake, smoking, alcoholism, intestinal dysfunction and in patients with psychiatric illnesses.
Vitamin C is present in fresh fruits and vegetables, and especially deep green buckwheat juice.This juice contains high quality of Vitamins C, P and Rutin.