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Vitamins & minerals

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)

Supports collagen formation, antioxidant activity and absorption of nonheme iron.

Updated September 17, 2026 · Educational reference

What it does

Supports collagen formation, antioxidant activity and absorption of nonheme iron.

Possible deficiency symptoms

Severe deficiency can cause bleeding gums, easy bruising, poor wound healing and fatigue.

Food sources

Citrus; bell peppers; kiwi; strawberries; broccoli.

Supplement forms

Ascorbic acid and mineral ascorbates.

Before taking a supplement

Large doses can cause diarrhea and may be unsuitable with some kidney-stone or iron-overload conditions.

Questions for your visit

Could my diet, medicines, absorption or another condition explain my concern? What evidence would support treatment, and how would we check whether it helps?

Names you may see

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) · Ascorbic Acid

PURSER WELLNESS · PRACTICE & SHOP

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VARS Liposomal Vitamin C Gummies product packagingPHYSICIAN DESIGNEDVARS Liposomal Vitamin C GummiesProduct information & ingredientsView productTESTING & CONSULTATIONCMA intracellular testing + consultationLearn about the test and consultation optionsExplore testing

Product and testing details from our practice and shop. Discuss what fits your needs with your clinician. Current labels, availability and pricing are shown on the linked pages.

Sources & perspective

This is an editorial adaptation of the Purser Wellness nutrient reference app. Purser teaching connections are labeled separately from clinical interpretation. Private cases and individual treatment protocols are not reproduced.

Use the public resources below for additional context.

NIH Office of Dietary Supplements: Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)

Now hear the conversation.

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PURSER WELLNESS🧬 What’s more powerful than glutathione or vitamin C?A conversation with Dr. Purser
YouTubeJan 6, 2026

🧬 What’s more powerful than glutathione or vitamin C?

Superoxide dismutase (SOD)—your body’s first line of defense against DNA-damaging free radicals. SOD neutralizes superoxide radicals at the source of cellular energy production. But as we age—or if we have genetic SNPs—our ability to make SOD drops. That’s why we created VARS SOD, with over 10,000 IU per dose (most products have less than 240 IU). It’s a game changer for anti-aging, DNA protection, and reducing inflammation at the root.

Inflammation