Vitamin C
Vitamin C in tablets, capsules, powder and liposomal drops, plus buffered forms and combinations with zinc. We explain which form suits you, why more than 1,000 mg rarely adds much, and how to take it daily.Read more →
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Vitamin C forms, dosage and daily use
What vitamin C is and what it does
Vitamin C, also called ascorbic acid, dissolves in water. Your body cannot make it and stores only small amounts, so a regular daily intake matters more than one large dose. The European food safety authority (EFSA) has approved several statements for it. Vitamin C contributes to the normal function of the immune system, to the protection of cells from oxidative stress, to normal collagen formation for the normal function of skin, gums, teeth and blood vessels, and to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. It also increases iron absorption. You will find it on its own and in combinations across our full vitamin range.
The forms differ more than the label suggests
Plain ascorbic acid is the best-studied form and the cheapest per gram. It is also acidic, which some people notice on an empty stomach. Buffered forms such as calcium ascorbate or sodium ascorbate are bound to a mineral, so they taste and feel milder. Liposomal vitamin C is wrapped in a tiny fat layer, so more of it passes through digestion intact. It costs more per gram, and it suits you if you want a higher intake without stomach complaints. Powder lets you dose freely and mix it into water. Tablets of 1,000 mg are practical, but usually need pressing agents. Gummies carry the lowest dose per piece and often contain sugar or sweeteners.
How we choose the vitamin C we stock
We judge every vitamin C product on three points: the form, the dose per serving, and whether the combination makes sense. We keep plain ascorbic acid because it is well researched and good value, buffered ascorbates for sensitive stomachs, and liposomal versions where the higher price buys better absorption. We stock pairings with zinc because both have their own approved role in immune function, and we skip blends where the extra ingredients sit far below any useful amount. We only carry brands we stand behind, and every product passes our compliance team before it goes live. You can read how we select brands and products.
Who it suits, and what to expect
Most people in the UK get enough vitamin C from food. A supplement is more relevant if you eat little fruit and vegetables, if you smoke, or if your intake dips in winter. Many shoppers on this page are building a simple daily base, often alongside a zinc supplement or the products in our IMMUNITY + VITALITY pillar.
Two practical points are worth knowing. First, absorption drops as the dose rises: your body takes up a far higher share of 250 mg than of 1,000 mg at once. If you want a higher daily intake, split it across two moments rather than taking one big tablet. Second, vitamin C is not a quick fix. It supports functions that run every day, so consistent use over weeks is what counts, not a single dose when you already feel unwell. If a high dose causes loose stools or stomach discomfort, that is usually a sign to lower the amount or switch to a buffered form.
Frequently asked questions
Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin. Your body cannot produce it and keeps only small reserves, so you need it from food or a supplement each day. Fruit and vegetables are the main dietary sources. People choose a supplement when their diet is low in fresh produce, when they smoke, or simply to keep a steady daily base. Approved statements include a contribution to the normal function of the immune system and to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
