Ingredient Science: Vitamin C—Collagen, Antioxidant Function and Food Sources

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a water-soluble vitamin used in collagen synthesis and other enzyme reactions. It also functions as an antioxidant and can improve absorption of nonheme iron from plant foods.

What that means in everyday nutrition

Collagen is a structural protein found throughout connective tissues. Vitamin C also helps regenerate other antioxidants after they have been oxidized. These are normal biochemical functions; they should not be translated into promises that a supplement will prevent colds or other infections.

Food sources

Fruits and vegetables—including citrus, berries, peppers, tomatoes and broccoli—are important sources. The AAP emphasizes food-first nutrition for most healthy children because foods provide fiber and many nutrients together.

AAP context on “immune boosting”

Vitamin C is important to normal immune function, but the AAP’s 2026 guidance states that supplements should not be marketed or understood as a way to “boost” a healthy child’s immunity or prevent serious illness. Supplement needs should be based on diet, deficiency risk and the child’s clinical circumstances.

Where it appears in DocVites

Vitamin C is included in the current formulations of DocVites Infant Multivitamin Drops, DocVites Children’s Multivitamin with Prebiotics and DocVites Multivitamin Chewable Tablets. Read the finished label for the amount per serving.

Educational information only. This article describes normal nutrient physiology and label context; it does not claim that a DocVites product diagnoses, treats, cures or prevents disease. Follow the finished product label and discuss individual supplementation questions with your child’s pediatrician.