Tag: Guinea pigs

While most animals can produce their own vitamin C, a significant number of species have lost this ability through evolution and must obtain it from their diet. This guide explains exactly what species require vitamin C and the genetic reason behind this dependency.

According to genetic studies, the inability of certain animals to produce their own vitamin C is due to a mutation in the GULO gene. This gene encodes the final enzyme in the ascorbic acid biosynthesis pathway, rendering affected species dependent on dietary intake.

Most animals, from dogs to goats, produce their own vitamin C, but humans and a few other species cannot due to a genetic mutation. This biological quirk is a fun fact about vitamin C and means we must get this essential nutrient from our diet to prevent deficiency diseases like scurvy.