Vitamin C rquirements and oral contraceptives

Abstract

ANIMAL experiments1-4 indicate that oestrogens increase the rate of ascorbic acid breakdown and lower tissue levels. Vitamin C is poorly stored by humans and widespread sub-clinical deficiencies occur. We have investigated levels of ascorbic acid in blood cells from healthy women, some of whom were taking oral contraceptives. We have also studied pregnant women and others receiving an injected contraceptive. None was receiving supplementary vitamins. © 1972 Nature Publishing Group.