How did we lose it? Why did we lose it? We still have the gene, called GULO, to synthesize vitamin C, but somehow that gene has been broken over years and years (and years and years and years) of mutations. We may never know why evolution decided we should rely on fruits and vegetables for vitamin C instead of making our own. The important thing is that we make sure we get enough of it in our diet. Besides keeping scurvy away, vitamin C has many other benefits. The Many Benefits of Vitamin C You've known for years that vitamin C helps strengthen your immune system so you can fight off colds and other illnesses, but studies are continually discovering more. potential health benefits.May improve iron absorptionSome scientific research has indicated that vitamin C plays a key role in improving the absorption of iron supplements taken orally. Reduced risk of urinary tract infections Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common among older adults and pregnant women, but some research has suggested that vitamin C may reduce the risk of developing a UTI.