Catherine Saxelby's Foodwatch | Glossary

(Ascorbic acid). Essential vitamin which plays a primary role in the formation of collagen, bones, blood vessels and connective tissues. It is required for wound healing and increases the body's absorption of iron. Smokers have an increased requirement for vitamin C. Megadoses of vitamin C have been hailed as a cure for the common cold, but carefully controlled studies have shown it can reduce the severity, but not eliminate colds entirely.