Vitamin-C Overdose: Is it possible?

Kei Quinal

Reading — Beginner Level
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Activity

Read the text and answer the questions


While vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is an essential nutrient, it's possible to have too much of it.

Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that supports normal growth and development and helps your body absorb iron. Because your body doesn't produce or store vitamin C, it's important to include vitamin C in your diet. For most people, an orange or a cup of strawberries, chopped red pepper, or broccoli provides enough vitamin C for the day.

For adults, the recommended daily amount for vitamin C is 65 to 90 milligrams (mg) a day, and the upper limit is 2,000 mg a day. Although too much dietary vitamin C is unlikely to be harmful, megadoses of vitamin C supplements might cause:

Diarrhea
Nausea
Vomiting
Heartburn
Abdominal cramps
Headache
Insomnia

Remember, for most people, a healthy diet provides an adequate amount of vitamin C.
  1. Vitamin C is essential in supporting your body's growth and absorbing   .

  2. Human bodies are capable of producing Vitamin C every day.

  3. Vitamin C supplements can more likely cause Vitamin C overdose than Vitamin C from fruits and vegetables.

  4. What is the recommended daily amount of Vitamin C?

  5. The article mentions that   is a good way to get enough vitamin C.

Discussion

Practice your writing skills by discussing the questions below

  1. Do you often drink Vitamin C? Why/why not?

  2. What other vitamin supplements do you drink?

  3. Why is it important to observe moderation when taking vitamin supplements?

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