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Ascorbic Acid

Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that is used in many biochemical pathways in the human body.

Chemical Formula: C₆H₈O₆

Other names: Vitamin C

Layman's explanation: Vitamin C is used to help heal wounds and burns, and is also used for maintaining collagen, a protein that strengthens skin, bones, tendons, and gums. It is a strong antioxidant that reduces free radicals, compounds that oxidize and damage delicate tissues in the body. Humans can not manufacture Vitamin C; instead it is ingested by eating foods such as oranges and lemons. Lack of vitamin C causes many problems in the body: wounds take longer to heal, free radicals do more damage, and in extreme cases, Vitamin C deficiency can lead to scurvy.

Keywords: scurvy, nutrient, antioxidant

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