Investigation on the seasonal fluctuation of vitamin C excretion in Palestine

Abstract

During the period November 1936–November 1937 the vitamin C excreted in the urine by adults and children was investigated in a number of places in Palestine. The pronounced influence of the citrus season (winter and spring) with its greater consumption of citrus fruit was noted in all the population groups investigated. In the summer, however, when the supply of fresh vegetable sources of vitamin C is remarkably poor, much lower, partly subnormal, excretion values are to be found.The lower average excretion of vitamin C in the urine samples taken from children probably indicate a higher requirement by the growing than by the adult body.