Vitamin C, (also known as Ascorbic Acid) is a water soluble vitamin that is used by the metabolism in many important ways. It helps activates numerous enzymes, has an important role in cell respiration, and offers protection against stress. It assists in the absorption of iron, and, together with folic acid and vitamin B12, stimulates red blood cell production. It helps support the functioning of the nervous system, and it participates in the structural formation of bone, blood vessels, connective tissue and collagen. It is also an excellent anti-oxidant, helping to protect cells against damage caused by free radicals.