20241118 Vitamin C deficiency and Market in the Philippines

 Vitamin C 

Also known as ascorbic acid and ascorbate) is a water-soluble vitamin found in citrus and other fruits, berries and vegetables. It is also a generic prescription medication and in some countries is sold as a non-prescription dietary supplement. As a therapy, it is used to prevent and treat scurvy, a disease caused by vitamin C deficiency.

Vitamin C deficiency in the Philippines

Undernutrition is and has always been, a serious problem in the Philippines.

96%

Vitamin C deficiency is prevalent in the Philippines, with 96% of adults having a below Estimated Average Requirement (EAR) as of 2018. 

National nutrition survey in Philippines found that the nutrient intake is inadequate in children and diet is also composed of limited food sources. It was found that 60-90% children in Philippines consume lesser vitamin C than the estimated average requirement. 

Insights:

As a Filipino, it's still disheartening but not surprising that this issue exists in the Philippines. I feel this highlights the urgent need for both short-term and long-term solutions. In the short term, vitamin C supplementation programs in schools and communities could help bridge the gap. Long-term efforts should focus on improving access to affordable, fresh produce by supporting local agriculture and promoting urban gardening. 

Vitamin C market in the Philippines

According to a survey on health and wellness in the Philippines as of the first quarter of 2023, more than 70 percent of Gen Z respondents indicated vitamin C as their most preferred nutrient when choosing food and supplements. (Balita, 2023)

There are several high-quality Vitamin C supplements available in the Philippines that can help meet daily needs. These supplements come in different forms, such as tablets, capsules, and powders, allowing Filipinos to choose the one that suits their preference. 

References:

Aransay, A. (2021). Dietary and Lifestyle-Related Factors associated with Vitamin C. University of the Philippines Los Baños. 

https://che.uplb.edu.ph/theses-data/dietary-and-lifestyle-related-factors-associated-with-vitamin-c-intake-of-selected-students-at-the-university-of-the-philippines-los-banos/

The role of vitamin C in protecting your child | Cecon PH. (2021, November 8). Cecon. https://cecon.ph/health-insights/the-role-of-vitamin-c-in-protecting-your-child/

Wikipedia contributors. (2024, November 22). Vitamin C. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vitamin_C