Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Dehydroascorbic acid (DHA), the oxidized form of vitamin C (ascorbic acid), has scientific relevance in the context of anemia, specifically iron-deficiency anemia. Scientific evidence indicates that vitamin C enhances non-heme iron absorption in the gut, thereby supporting the treatment of iron-deficiency anemia. While most research focuses on ascorbic acid, some studies have examined DHA because it can be converted back to ascorbic acid in the body and shares some biological roles. Experimental data demonstrate that DHA can enter red blood cells via glucose transporters and is subsequently reduced to ascorbate, which plays a role in maintaining iron in its ferrous (Fe2+) state, the form more readily absorbed and utilized by the body. This reduction capacity indirectly supports erythropoiesis (red blood cell production). A few clinical and preclinical studies suggest that both ascorbic acid and DHA may facilitate iron absorption and utilization, particularly in populations at risk of deficiency. However, DHA is less commonly used directly as a supplement due to stability concerns and its rapid reduction to ascorbate in biological systems. The majority of clinical recommendations still focus on vitamin C (ascorbic acid) rather than DHA specifically. In summary, there is moderate scientific evidence supporting the use of vitamin C forms, including dehydroascorbic acid, in enhancing iron absorption and potentially supporting anemia treatment, but DHA itself is not widely used as a direct therapeutic agent for this purpose.

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