Influence of oral contraceptives on ascorbic acid and triglyceride status

The overall purpose of this study was to determine the influence of oral contraceptive agents on ascorbic acid and triglyceride status of young women by measurement of plasma and whole blood ascorbate and serum triglycerides on three days during one oral contraceptive or menstrual cycle. The subjects' food intake records were evaluated to determine the relationship between dietary intake and ascorbic acid blood levels. Results indicate that, with adequate intake of ascorbic acid, there in no threat to ascorbic acid status as a result of using oral contraceptives for periods of six months to seven years. Although bordering on being significant, the serum triglycerides did not appear to be alarmingly elevated.