Tag: L gulonolactone oxidase

Many animal species, unlike humans, have the ability to synthesize their own vitamin C within their bodies. This raises the often-asked question: Is vitamin C produced in the liver for people? The definitive answer is no, a fact rooted in a fascinating aspect of our genetic and evolutionary history.

While many plants and most animals can synthesize their own vitamin C, humans and other primates must obtain this essential nutrient from their diet. This inability to produce ascorbic acid internally is due to a genetic mutation that occurred millions of years ago.

Approximately 63 million years ago, a genetic mutation occurred in an ancestral primate that permanently removed its ability to produce vitamin C, a trait passed down to humans. This loss means that humans, along with other primates and a few other animals, must obtain this vital nutrient from external dietary sources to prevent scurvy and maintain optimal health.