Vitamin C. Computer model of a molecule of ascorbic acid (vitamin C). Atom are represented as spheres and are colour-coded; carbon (blue), hydrogen (gold) and oxygen (red). Vitamin C is an essential vitamin that is found in fruit and green vegetables. It is needed for the growth and maintenance of bones, teeth, skin and blood vessels. It is also a powerful antioxidant. Deficiency in vitamin C leads to scurvy, which causes bleeding gums and anaemia.