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While vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is an essential nutrient, it’s possible to have too much of it. Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that supports normal growth and development and helps your body absorb iron. Review/update the information highlighted below and resubmit the form.
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What Does Vitamin C Do?
Vitamin C is a type of antioxidant.
In this respect, getting enough of the nutrient is just one way you can support your body’s natural defenses against illness. It also helps increase iron absorption, which is essential for growth and overall body functions. Oranges and orange juices are perhaps the best-known sources of vitamin C, but other items in the produce aisle are chock-full, including: bell peppers
broccoli
cantaloupe
grapefruit
kiwi
potatoes
strawberries
tomatoes You probably don’t need a vitamin C supplement if you eat a lot of fruits and vegetables.
In fact, just one serving of any of the above foods likely will get you to your daily quota.
How Much Is Too Much?
The average man requires 90mg. Recommended amounts are higher for pregnant and nursing women.
The maximum recommended amount, or upper limit, is 2,000mg per day for all adults. Taking more than the upper limit for vitamin C isn’t life-threatening, but you may experience side effects like: abdominal pain
cramps
diarrhea
headaches
nausea (and possible vomiting)
sleeping problems People with hemochromatosis are in danger of a vitamin C overdose. Vitamin C supplements may also interact with certain medications.
This is especially true of medications for heart disease and cancer. Be sure to check with your doctor before taking a supplement.
Symptoms Of Taking Too Much Vitamin C
Adults who take more than 2,000 mg of vitamin C per day may experience side effects.
When a person takes more than the recommended limit of vitamin C, they may experience mild digestive disturbances. If a person takes more than 1 gram (g) of vitamin C per day, the body absorbs less than 50% of the vitamin, which reduces the risk of negative side effects.