4 Awesomely Healthful Sources of Immune-Boosting Vitamin C
Vitamin C is one of the most widely known and supplemented nutrients. The majority of people can name at least one good source of vitamin C, and most would name a citrus fruit if pressed. But there are many other great sources of vitamin C, and sources you should consider if you want to reap the many benefits of this nutrient and the foods that contain it.
One of the most important qualities of vitamin C is that it is a powerful antioxidant, neutralizing free radicals that can cause oxidative stress. These antioxidant effects are especially pronounced in the eyes, the bloodstream, and your DNA. Further, vitamin C-rich foods aid in the absorption of dietary iron.
In your brain, vitamin C is crucial in making neurotransmitters, the signals that carry thoughts and feelings. One of these neurotransmitters, serotonin, is important in mood regulation. The vitamin is also important for maintaining healthy skin, helping to improve elasticity and prevent wrinkles.
A vitamin C deficiency, known as scurvy in severe cases, can cause teeth loss, easy bleeding, and loss of strength. Here are 7 signs you’re vitamin C deficient.
Fortunately, getting enough vitamin C is easy, particularly when you look at the delicious foods naturally rich in this vitamin. Here are just 4 foods to consume to sweep your body with vitamin C:
1. Papaya
A tropical fruit, papaya is loaded with vitamin C, at 168.08 mg per single serving, or 224.11% of the daily recommended value. One medium-sized papaya contains 313% of the DV. They are also rich in carotenes, flavonoids, B vitamins, floate, and fiber. Papaya is good for the cardiovascular system and can protect against colon cancer.
2. Peppers
Like papaya, bell peppers and chili peppers are rich in vitamin C. Generally, a single-cup serving has approximately 117.48 mg of the nutrient, or 156.64 % of your daily recommended amount. Because peppers are so versatile and widely grown, they are a perfect source.
3. Camu Camu
Less widely known than the other sources, camu camu is a fruit from the Amazon rainforest. It has up to 7.5 grams of vitamin C per 100 gram serving. It is also good at fighting inflammation and cancer, promoting eye health and good moods, and boosting the immune system. Here are some other camu camu benefits.
4. Broccoli
Few people realize that broccoli is a good source of vitamin C, with 101.24 mg per single cup serving. This means you can get 134.99% of your daily vitamin C from one cup of the little trees. Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse and is also good for skin protection, fighting osteoarthritis, reducing cancer risk, and even reversing heart damage due to diabetes.