What is vitamin C?

Vitamin C is most well-known as the immune-boosting vitamin, but levels of vitamin C in the blood give doctors an indication of more than immune system function. Low levels of vitamin C can be associated with high blood pressure, stroke and certain forms of cancer. Vitamin C also helps reduce plaque buildup in blood vessels, so low levels of vitamin C increases the risk of atherosclerosis.

Patients may experience easy bruising, nosebleeds and reduced immunity if they are vitamin C deficient.

Normal value range

• Negative Pregnancy Adult: 0.4 to 1 mg/dL or 23 to 57 µmol/L
• Pregnancy Trimester One: 1 to 1.4 mg/dL or 57 to 80 µmol/L
• Pregnancy Trimester Two: 0.8 to 1.2 mg/dL or 45 to 68 µmol/L
• Pregnancy Trimester Three: 0.8 to 1.2 mg/dL or 45 to 68 µmol/L