What are the daily recommended intake levels of Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) and Zinc?

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Last updated: February 10, 2025 • View editorial policy

From the Guidelines

The daily recommended intake levels of Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) are 90 mg/d for men and 75 mg/d for women, as recommended by the USA and Canada, while the recommended intake of Zinc is not specified in the provided evidence.

Vitamin C Intake

  • The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for vitamin C varies globally, ranging from 40 mg/d in the UK and India to 110 mg/d in some European countries 1.
  • The RDA is defined as the average daily dietary intake level that is sufficient to meet the nutrient requirements of nearly all (97-98%) healthy individuals in a particular life stage and gender group 2.
  • The USA and Canada's RDA of 90 mg/d for men and 75 mg/d for women is based on the potential health effects of vitamin C, including antioxidant protection and maintenance of near-maximal neutrophil concentrations with minimal urinary excretion of ascorbate 1.

Zinc Intake

  • Unfortunately, the provided evidence does not specify the recommended daily intake levels of Zinc.
  • However, it is essential to note that Zinc is an essential nutrient, and its recommended intake may vary depending on factors such as age, sex, and life stage.
  • Further research is needed to determine the recommended daily intake levels of Zinc.

From the Research

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) Intake

  • The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of vitamin C has been a topic of discussion, with some studies suggesting an increase from the traditional 60 mg/day to 90-100 mg/day for optimum reduction of chronic disease risk in nonsmoking men and women 3.
  • Other studies propose an RDA of 120 mg/day based on an estimated average requirement (EAR) of 100 mg/day 4, 5.
  • The adequate intake (AI) amount is estimated to be either 200 mg/day from 5 servings of fruits and vegetables or 100 mg/day of vitamin C to prevent deficiency with a margin of safety 4.
  • The tolerable upper intake level is proposed to be less than 1 g of vitamin C daily 4, 5.
  • Some studies suggest that individuals with chronic diseases, such as cancer or diabetes, or those who smoke may require higher doses of vitamin C in their diet 6.

Zinc Intake

  • There is no information available in the provided studies regarding the daily recommended intake levels of Zinc.

Comparison of Recommendations

  • The recommended daily intake of vitamin C varies across studies, with proposed RDAs ranging from 90 mg/day to 120 mg/day 3, 4.
  • The AI amount is estimated to be 200 mg/day from 5 servings of fruits and vegetables or 100 mg/day of vitamin C to prevent deficiency with a margin of safety 4.
  • It is essential to note that the current recommendation of daily intake of vitamin C is 90 mg/d for men and 75 mg/d for women, as stated in one of the studies 6.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.