In:
Journal of International Medical Research, SAGE Publications, Vol. 46, No. 1 ( 2018-01), p. 168-174
Abstract:
Vitamin C deficiency is considered extremely rare in modern industrialized countries. This study was performed to assess vitamin C concentrations in the German population. Methods As part of a consultant–patient seminar on nutrition and food intolerances, patients were asked to participate in this study on a voluntary basis. Blood samples were taken for analysis of serum vitamin C concentrations, and all patients were asked to complete a questionnaire. The vitamin C concentration was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography. Results Of approximately 300 patients attending the seminar, 188 (62.6%) consented to vitamin C blood sample analysis and 178 (59.3%) answered the questionnaire. The mean vitamin C concentration was 7.98 mg/L (range, 0.50–17.40; reference range, 5–15 mg/L). A low plasma level with vitamin C insufficiency ( 〈 5 mg/L) was found in 31 patients (17.4%), and a potential scorbutogenic deficiency ( 〈 1.5 mg/L) was found in 6 (3.3%). Conclusions Potential vitamin C insufficiency and deficiency is common. It is therefore possible, even in modern developed populations, that certain individuals may require a higher intake of vitamin C.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
0300-0605
,
1473-2300
DOI:
10.1177/0300060517714387
Language:
English
Publisher:
SAGE Publications
Publication Date:
2018
detail.hit.zdb_id:
2082422-1
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