Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, has a wide variety of uses in the body. It helps slow or prevent cell damage. It is needed to maintain healthy body tissues and the immune system. Vitamin C also helps our bodies absorb iron from plant foods. What happens if we don’t get enough vitamin C? A deficiency can lead to anemia, bleeding gums, infections, dry and splitting hair, and poor wound healing. Talk with your doctor about the right amount of vitamin C for you, based on your age and, if you’re a woman, whether you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
— Source: University of Florida