The daily requirement of Vitamin C is –
**Question:** The daily requirement of Vitamin C is -
A. 70 mg
B. 100 mg
C. 200 mg
D. 300 mg
**Correct Answer:** .
**Core Concept:** Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is an essential nutrient required for various physiological processes, including collagen synthesis, antioxidant activity, and immune function. It plays a crucial role in wound healing, bone and cartilage development, and maintaining blood vessel integrity.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:** Vitamin C is essential for the body's antioxidant defense system, preventing damage from reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS). The recommended daily intake of Vitamin C varies based on factors such as age, sex, and pregnancy status. For adults, the daily requirement of Vitamin C is approximately 70 mg. This value is based on the average daily needs for maintaining overall health and preventing deficiency symptoms.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. 100 mg is not the correct answer because the daily requirement of Vitamin C is lower than this value, making it too high.
B. 200 mg is an incorrect answer as it is higher than the recommended daily intake and may lead to side effects like diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal cramps.
C. 300 mg is not the correct answer as it is higher than the recommended daily requirement and may cause side effects, whereas a deficiency can lead to scurvy.
**Why Option D is Right:** The correct answer, 70 mg, is appropriate for the average adult daily requirement of Vitamin C, ensuring optimal health and preventing deficiency symptoms.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. 100 mg is too high and may cause side effects, while a deficiency can lead to scurvy.
B. 200 mg is higher than necessary and may cause gastrointestinal issues, while a deficiency results in scurvy.
C. 300 mg is too high and may cause side effects, while a deficiency can lead to scurvy.
D. 70 mg accurately represents the daily requirement for average adults, ensuring optimal health and preventing deficiency symptoms.
**Clinical Pearls:**
1. Vitamin C deficiency, also known as scurvy, is associated with gum swelling (gingivitis), bleeding gums, easy bruising, fatigue, and joint pain.
2. Vitamin C plays a crucial role in collagen synthesis, which is essential for the healing of wounds, blood vessel integrity, and connective tissue health.
3. Vitamin C supplementation should be done under medical supervision as excessive intake may lead to gastrointestinal side effects.