Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid is an essential vitamin because our body cannot produce it. Therefore, we should consume it regularly in sufficient amounts to maintain its adequate levels in the body. This essential dietary component is naturally present in some foods, added to others and available as a dietary supplement. We need to replenish our supply of vitamin C every day – and the best source is from fruits and vegetables. Scroll down and check out what are the best vitamin c rich food sources.
Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin which is stored in the body in very limited amounts and gets excreted through the urine. Therefore, it is a good idea to have it in our daily diet. Vitamin C is well known for being a potent antioxidant, as well as having positive effects on skin health and immune function. The recommended daily intake for vitamin C is 75 mg for women and 90 mg for men.
* The recommended daily allowance (RDA) will vary depending on age, gender, age, and lifestyle choices like smoking.
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Vitamin C Rich Food Sources
Fruits with the highest sources of vitamin C include:
- Amla
- Guava
- Kiwi
- Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and cranberries
- Lemon
- Grapefruit
- Orange
- Papaya
- Pineapple
- Cantaloupe
- Watermelon
- Tomato (yes, you read that right! As per botanical classification, tomato is a fruit.)
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Vegetables with the highest sources of vitamin C include:
- Green, yellow and red peppers
- Broccoli
- Brussels sprouts
- Cabbage
- Cauliflower
- Sweet and white potatoes
- Spinach
- Kale
- Mustard green
- Turnip greens
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Benefits Of Vitamin C
- Vitamin C may boost immunity by helping white blood cells function more effectively, strengthening your skin’s defence system, and helping wounds heal faster.
- Vitamin C plays an integral part in the production of collagen, a protein that is necessary for building and maintaining- healthy bones, joints, skin and digestive tract tissues. Collagen decreases wrinkles and also the symptoms and signs of ageing.
- It helps in absorbing iron from the food that is poorly absorbed, especially from meat-free sources. It may also reduce the risk of iron deficiency.
- It reduces the risk of chronic diseases.
- It may help manage high blood pressure.