Natural Sources of Vitamin C

Out of all the nutrients and vitamins out there, vitamin C is the most common and familiar. Even though there are numerous foods containing vitamin C, most people lack this nutrient and end up having serious health problems because of this. We can get this vitamin from supplements, but as usual, it is always best to take it from natural sources. But, first of all, let’s see how vitamin C helps our organism.

To begin with, vitamin C is an antioxidant, being extremely beneficial for our cells, DNA, eyes and the cholesterol levels in our blood. At the same time, it promotes the iron absorption and the production of collagen that protects our bones and skin. Last, but not least, vitamin C is beneficial for the brain health as it is required to make neurotransmitters that carry commands, feelings and thoughts. Serotonin is also produced with the help of vitamin C, having a major beneficial effect in depression.

So, now that we know how this vitamin can help us, let’s see where we can take it from, apart from oranges and other citrus fruits.

Chili Peppers

Yes, they are spicy and not many people might like them, but they are rich in vitamin C. Half a cup of chili peppers contains more than 100 g of this vitamin. Moreover, these vegetables also contain capsaicin that is helpful in relieving muscle and joint pains.

Red Bell Peppers

The sweeter relatives of the chili peppers, the red bell peppers have 3 times more vitamin C as compared to an orange. One of these peppers alone contains 190 mg vitamin C. They also have vitamin A that is extremely beneficial for your eye health.

Kale

Kale contains 7 times more vitamin K and 2 times more vitamin A than your daily recommended dose. Besides this, a cup of this leafy vegetable has almost 80 milligrams of vitamin C. This amazing product is also a great source of fatty acids and minerals.

Papaya

Except for the fact that is really delicious, papaya is also efficient in strengthening your bones, brightening the skin and cleaning your sinuses. Not to mention that one serving of papaya provides you with 88 milligrams of vitamin C.

Broccoli

You may not have liked broccoli as a child, but this green vegetable must not miss from your diet now. It contains no less than 132 milligrams of the beneficial vitamin C and, on top of that, it’s rich in fiber, being efficient in preventing cancer.

Cauliflower

This vegetable can be eaten mashed, steamed or roasted and still preserve its health benefits. It contains proteins, fibers and also 127 milligrams of vitamin C.

Brussels Sprouts

These funny-looking cabbages have lots of fibers and phytonutrients that can prevent cancer. In what regards vitamin C, it delivers 74 mg of it. They’re better served roasted.

Strawberries

They’re delicious and a cup filled with them has more than 80 mg of vitamin C. They also contain various compounds that help your heart and, unexpectedly, they can whiten your teeth.

Other foods that contain large amounts of vitamin C are kiwi, pineapples, mangoes and green bell peppers.