the chemical name for vitamin C, a nutrient inherent in many fruits and vegetables, particularly citrus fruits (see vitamin). Unlike most mammals, primates cannot make ascorbic acid, so they must obtain it from these types of foods. Ascorbic acid aids in the formation of connective tissue and prevents oxidation of cellular components. Deficiency can result in scurvy (marked by bleeding gums and delayed wound healing), as well as neurological disorders.
ASCORBIC ACID: “Ascorbic acid is more commonly known as vitamin C, and is found in fruits, for example, citrus fruits. “