Classification of Ascorbic Acid

Another term for ascorbic acid is Vitamin C, and because both have identical structure and function, the two terms are used interchangeably. Ascorbic acid is classified as a water-soluble vitamin that is vital for the maintenance of bodily functions. Humans cannot produce Vitamin C, thus making it one of the essential vitamins.

Classification Facts

• Humans cannot produce ascorbic acid which is the prime reason it is classified as an essential vitamin. According to Polymer Science Learning Center, Vitamin C is comprised of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. Its formula is C6H8O6. Ascorbic acid can be found in a number of different types of foods including citrus fruits, tomatoes, many leafy, green vegetables and certain berries.

Additional Facts

• Ascorbic acid is also an antioxidant, or a specific nutrient that blocks damage caused by free radicals (the byproducts resulting from the body’s transformation of food into energy). Antioxidants also help protect against heart disease and different types of cancer, so ascorbic acid is essential to the healthy functioning of the human body.

Beneficial Functions

• Ascorbic acid has a plethora of functions that benefit the human body. These include helping to lower blood pressure, ensuring the proper dilation of blood vessels, promoting tissue repair and growth, helping in proper brain function, aiding in iron and calcium absorption, boosting immune response, keeping gums healthy, helping develop strong bones and teeth and helping prevent cataracts by increasing the amount of blood flow to the eyes.

Deficiency

• Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) deficiency can lead to bruises, bleeding gums, infections, gingivitis and periodontitis and scurvy. With a Vitamin C deficiency, a person can experience weakness, small hemorrhages through the body and loose teeth. Additionally, it will take longer for wounds to heal, there will be a fluid buildup in the ankles and feet, and fatigue, lethargy and joint pain can be experienced.