
What foods are rich in vitamin C?
More Citrus Fruit High in Vitamin C
- 413% DV in 1 pomelo
- 98% DV in 1 grapefruit
- 40% DV in 1 clementine
- 34% DV in 1 lemon
Which fruits and vegetables contain high vitamin C?
Read on to know about these foods!
- Guava. Yellow and red fruits are usually credited with having high vitamin content, but guava is a fruit that stands tall as an exception.
- Pineapple. Pineapple is an underrated nutrient powerhouse - the fruit contains huge amounts of vitamin C. ...
- Strawberries. ...
- Kiwi. ...
- Mango. ...
- Papaya. ...
- Broccoli. ...
- Kale. ...
- Red And Yellow Bell Peppers. ...
Which food contains vitamin C?
What vegetables are good sources of vitamin C?
- Hot chili peppers
- Yellow sweet peppers. Furthermore, it has only 27 calories. Just 1 yellow pepper contains up to 341 mg of vitamin C ( 2 ).
- Red Sweet Peppers. Just one medium red sweet pepper contains about 152 mg of vitamin C.
- Green Sweet Peppers. Kale is a good source of vitamin K. Additionally eating kale seems to be beneficial for your eyes. ...
What vegetables contain vitamin C?
These veggies and fruits are good sources of vitamin C:
- Red bell peppers
- Cruciferous veggies
- Potatoes

What is vitamin C?
Due to its function as an antioxidant and its role in immune function, vitamin C has been promoted as a means to help prevent and/or treat numerous health conditions. This section focuses on four diseases and disorders in which vitamin C might play a role: cancer (including prevention and treatment), cardiovascular disease, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts, and the common cold.
What is the best source of vitamin C?
Fruits and vegetables are the best sources of vitamin C (see Table 2) [ 12 ]. Citrus fruits, tomatoes and tomato juice, and potatoes are major contributors of vitamin C to the American diet [ 8 ]. Other good food sources include red and green peppers, kiwifruit, broccoli, strawberries, Brussels sprouts, and cantaloupe (see Table 2) [ 8, 12 ]. Although vitamin C is not naturally present in grains, it is added to some fortified breakfast cereals. The vitamin C content of food may be reduced by prolonged storage and by cooking because ascorbic acid is water soluble and is destroyed by heat [ 6, 8 ]. Steaming or microwaving may lessen cooking losses. Fortunately, many of the best food sources of vitamin C, such as fruits and vegetables, are usually consumed raw. Consuming five varied servings of fruits and vegetables a day can provide more than 200 mg of vitamin C.
What did Linus Pauling suggest about vitamin C?
In the 1970s Linus Pauling suggested that vitamin C could successfully treat and/or prevent the common cold [ 79 ]. Results of subsequent controlled studies have been inconsistent, resulting in confusion and controversy, although public interest in the subject remains high [ 80, 81 ].
How much vitamin C is absorbed daily?
Approximately 70%–90% of vitamin C is absorbed at moderate intakes of 30–180 mg/day.
What is the role of vitamin C in wound healing?
Vitamin C is required for the biosynthesis of collagen, L-carnitine, and certain neurotransmitters; vitamin C is also involved in protein metabolism [ 1, 2 ]. Collagen is an essential component of connective tissue, which plays a vital role in wound healing.
Why do smokers have lower vitamin C levels?
Studies consistently show that smokers have lower plasma and leukocyte vitamin C levels than nonsmokers, due in part to increased oxidative stress [ 8 ]. For this reason, the IOM concluded that smokers need 35 mg more vitamin C per day than nonsmokers [ 8 ]. Exposure to secondhand smoke also decreases vitamin C levels. Although the IOM was unable to establish a specific vitamin C requirement for nonsmokers who are regularly exposed to secondhand smoke, these individuals should ensure that they meet the RDA for vitamin C [ 4, 8 ].
Is vitamin C deficiency rare?
Today, vitamin C deficiency and scurvy are rare in developed countries [ 8 ]. Overt deficiency symptoms occur only if vitamin C intake falls below approximately 10 mg/day for many weeks [ 5-8, 22, 23 ]. Vitamin C deficiency is uncommon in developed countries but can still occur in people with limited food variety.
What foods have vitamin C?
Written by Caroline Hill, MHumNutr, BSc on June 5, 2018. Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that’s found in many foods, particularly fruits and vegetables. It’s well known for being a potent antioxidant, as well as having positive effects on skin health and immune function.
Which fruit has the most vitamin C?
One guava fruit delivers 140% of the DV for this vitamin. 6. Sweet Yellow Peppers. The vitamin C content of sweet or bell peppers increases as they mature. Just one-half cup (75 grams) of yellow peppers provides 137 mg of vitamin C, or 152% of the DV, which is double the amount found in green peppers ( 17, 18 ).
How much vitamin C is in acerola cherries?
Just one-half cup (49 grams) of red acerola cherries ( Malpighia emarginata) delivers 822 mg of vitamin C, or 913% of the DV ( 6 ). Animal studies using acerola extract have shown that it may have cancer-fighting properties, help prevent UVB skin damage and even decrease DNA damage caused by bad diet ( 7.
How much vitamin C is in blackcurrants?
One-half cup (56 grams) of blackcurrants ( Ribes nigrum) contains 101 mg of vitamin C, or 112% of the DV ( 20 ).
How much vitamin C is in a green chili pepper?
One green chili pepper contains 109 mg of vitamin C, or 121% of the DV. In comparison, one red chili pepper delivers 65 mg, or 72% of the DV ( 12, 13 ).
How much vitamin C is in plums?
It has the highest known concentration of vitamin C, containing up to 5,300 mg per 100 grams. Just one plum packs 481 mg of vitamin C, which is 530% of the DV ( 3 ).
Which has more vitamin C, thyme or oranges?
Gram for gram, fresh thyme has three times more vitamin C than oranges and one of the highest vitamin C concentration of all culinary herbs.
What is the definition of vitamin C?
: a water-soluble vitamin C6H8O6 found in plants and especially in fruits and leafy vegetables or made synthetically and used in the prevention and treatment of scurvy and as an antioxidant for foods. — called also ascorbic acid.
What is vitamin C?
Medical Definition of vitamin C. : a water-soluble vitamin C6H8O6 found in plants and especially in fruits and leafy vegetables or made synthetically and used in the prevention and treatment of scurvy and as an antioxidant for foods. — called also ascorbic acid.
What are some examples of vitamin C?
Recent Examples on the Web The key dietary nutrients for collagen production include chromium, copper and zinc, Omega-3, silica, sulfur, vitamin C, iron, threonine, proline, and lysine —all of which are found in The Beauty Chef’s Collagen Inner Beauty Boost.
Why is vitamin C important?
Vitamin C is essential for the synthesis of collagen, a protein that is important in the formation of connective tissue and wound healing. It acts as an antioxidant, protecting against damage by reactive molecules called free radicals. Vitamin C also helps in stimulating the immune system. Vitamin C is essential for the synthesis ...
When was vitamin C first used?
Vitamin C was first isolated in 1928 . It was identified as the curative agent for scurvy in 1932.
What is the name of the substance that is involved in certain metabolic processes of animals?
Alternative Titles: ascorbic acid, cevitamic acid, hexuronic acid. vitamin C, also called ascorbic acid, water-soluble, carbohydrate-like substance that is involved in certain metabolic processes of animals. Although most animals can synthesize vitamin C, it is necessary in the diet of some, including humans and other primates, ...
What is the best source of vitamin C?
Citrus fruits and fresh vegetables are the best dietary sources of the vitamin. Because vitamin C is easily destroyed by reactions with oxygen, especially in neutral or alkaline solution or at elevated temperatures, it is difficult to preserve in foods. The vitamin is added to certain fruits to prevent browning.
Does vitamin C help the immune system?
It acts as an antioxidant, protecting against damage by reactive molecules called free radicals. The vitamin also helps in stimulating the immune system. It has been shown in animal trials that vitamin C has some anticarcinogenic activity.
What is chili pepper?
Chili peppers are known for their ability to improve the taste of any meal, to add a touch of spice. They are often used as a spice and can be cooked, powdered or dried.
Is vitamin C a nutrient?
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water soluble nutrient, it is present in many fruits and vegetables and is according to experts one of the safest and most effective nutrients it presents. many benefits for the body.
Is Kiwi a fruit?
The kiwi is a fruit with a sweet and tangy taste, it is generally eaten without its skin, but its skin is also edible. It is rich in vitamins C, dietary fiber and antioxidants.
Is orange a fruit?
Orange is a low calorie and highly nutritious type of citrus fruit and is known to have many health benefits. Thanks to its sweetness and the different possible uses, it is one of the most consumed and appreciated fruits.
Why is vitamin C lost in cooking?
Because it is water-soluble, the vitamin can also seep into cooking liquid and be lost if the liquids are not eaten. Quick heating methods or using as little water as possible when cooking, such as stir-frying or blanching, can preserve the vitamin. Foods at peak ripeness eaten raw contain the most vitamin C.
What are the symptoms of vitamin C deficiency?
Scurvy, the hallmark disease of severe vitamin C deficiency, displays symptoms resulting from loss of collagen that weakens connective tissues: Skin spots caused by bleeding and bruising from broken blood vessels. Swelling or bleeding of gums, and eventual loss of teeth. Hair loss. Delayed healing of skin wounds.
What is the vitamin C that is in 12 oranges?
Loading up on this vitamin was a practice spurred by Linus Pauling in the 1970s, a double Nobel laureate and self-proclaimed champion of vitamin C who promoted daily megadoses (the amount in 12 to 24 oranges) as a way to prevent colds and some chronic diseases. Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin.
What is the role of vitamin C in scurvy?
[1] Vitamin C plays a role in controlling infections and healing wounds, and is a powerful antioxidant that can neutralize harmful free radicals.
How much vitamin C is taken in the intestine?
Studies have shown that absorption of vitamin C decreases to less than 50% when taking amounts greater than 1000 mg.
Why is collagen important?
It is needed to make collagen, a fibrous protein in connective tissue that is weaved throughout various systems in the body: nervous, immune, bone, cartilage, blood, and others. The vitamin helps make several hormones and chemical messengers used in the brain and nerves. [2]
Is vitamin C bad for you?
In generally healthy adults, megadoses of vitamin C are not toxic because once the body’s tissues become saturated with vitamin C, absorption decreases and any excess amount will be excreted in urine. However, adverse effects are possible with intakes greater than 3000 mg daily, including reports of diarrhea, increased formation ...
Why is vitamin C important for the body?
Vitamin C is also vital to your body's healing process . Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps protect your cells against the effects of free radicals — molecules produced when your body breaks down food or is exposed to tobacco smoke and radiation from the sun, X-rays or other sources.
What is the best vitamin C supplement for high cholesterol?
Protease inhibitors. Oral use of vitamin C might reduce the effect of these antiviral drugs. Statins and niacin. When taken with vitamin C, the effects of niacin and statins, which might benefit people with high cholesterol, could be reduced. Warfarin (Jantoven).
What is the best vitamin for iron?
Vitamin C also helps your body absorb and store iron. Because your body doesn't produce vitamin C , you need to get it from your diet. Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits, berries, potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, broccoli and spinach. Vitamin C is also available as an oral supplement, typically in the form ...
What is the cause of scurvy?
Have a limited diet that doesn't regularly include fruits and vegetables. Severe vitamin C deficiency can lead to a disease called scurvy, which causes anemia, bleeding gums, bruising and poor wound healing.
Does vitamin C help with macular degeneration?
Taking oral vitamin C supplements in combination with other vitamins and minerals seems to prevent age-related macular degeneration (AMD) from worsening. Some studies also suggest that people who have higher levels of vitamin C in their diets have a lower risk of developing cataracts.
Can you take vitamin C for a cold?
Taking oral vitamin C supplements doesn't appear to offer the same benefit. Common cold. Taking oral vitamin C supplements won't prevent the common cold. Evidence also shows that the benefits of regularly taking vitamin C supplements to reduce the duration or severity of a cold are minimal. Eye diseases.
Does vitamin C help with cancer?
However, it's not clear whether this protective effect is related to the vitamin C content in the food. Taking oral vitamin C supplements doesn't appear to offer the same benefit.
What is the vitamin C requirement for food fortification?
Vitamin C Requirements. In food fortification, the amounts of nutrients added should be sufficient to maintain nutritional status. Considerably higher quantities of nutrients will be needed to cure existing deficiencies and replete nutrient stores.
What is the role of vitamin C in collagen?
Vitamin C has other functions in addition to its role in collagen synthesis. Along with its role in hydroxylation reactions, vitamin C affects leukocyte (Anderson and Theron, 1979) and macrophage (Anderson and Lukey, 1987) function, immune response (Leibovitz and Siegel, 1978), wound healing (Levenson et al., 1971), and allergic reactions (Dawson and West, 1965). The involvement of vitamin C in these areas is less well documented, and the levels necessary to achieve these benefits are not known but are assumed to be much higher (pharmacological) than those required for scurvy prevention. Thus, the priority for adding vitamin C based on these roles cannot be established. However, if cost-effectiveness analyses show that providing higher fortification levels to prevent scurvy is not warranted, it is extremely unlikely that better knowledge about the other possible benefits of vitamin C would result in favorable cost-effective analysis for this objective.
How much ascorbic acid is in cereal?
The level of ascorbic acid in blended, fortified commodities (40 mg/100 g) was based on the 1974 National Research Council (NRC) recommendations for children up to 11 years of age, by assuming an intake of 100 g of blended cereal per day (Dr. Samuel Kahn, USAID, personal communication, September, 1997).
What is the main source of vitamin C for camels?
This corresponded to a lack of fresh food and high prices for camel's milk. Purchased camel's milk, wild foods, and fruits and vegetables from kitchen gardens are generally the main sources of vitamin C for this population.
How much protein is in 30g of fortified food?
The blended, fortified commodities are not intended to be the sole or even major source of nutrients because 30 g per day will provide only 114 kcal, or 5–6 percent of daily energy requirements, and 5–6 g of protein.
Does vitamin C help with iron absorption?
Vitamin C and Iron Absorption. Vitamin C in the diet can enhance the absorption of iron from plant sources (non-heme iron) and improve the absorbability of fortification iron (nonchelated inorganic iron) added to diets that contain inhibitors of iron absorption (e.g., the phytate and polyphenols found in CSB and WSB).
Is vitamin C good for scurvy?
However, if cost-effectiveness analyses show that providing higher fortification levels to prevent scurvy is not warranted, it is extremely unlikely that better knowledge about the other possible benefits of vitamin C would result in favorable cost-effective analysis for this objective.
Why is vitamin C important?
Because it is abundant in many plant foods, eating a healthful diet that includes a variety of fruits and vegetables usually provides a person with all the vitamin C that they need.
What is the role of vitamin C in the body?
Vitamin C is an antioxidant. It protects the body’s cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals can cause changes in cells and DNA that can lead to illnesses, including cancer. This vitamin also plays a key role in almost all of the body’s tissues.
What is the best source of vitamin C?
Summary. Fruits and vegetables are the best food sources of vitamin C. Eating a variety of these healthful foods will help people meet their daily requirements. Vitamin C, also called ascorbic acid, plays many important roles in the body. In particular, it is key to the immune system, helping prevent infections and fight disease.
How to get the most vitamin C?
Trusted Source. recommend steaming or microwaving these foods. To get the most vitamin C, eat a variety of raw fruits and vegetables every day.
What is the role of vitamin C in the immune system?
Vitamin C is an important part of the immune system, which defends against viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens. Studies show that low levels of vitamin C lead to problems with the immune system and other illnesses. Vitamin C deficiency can result in a condition called scurvy.
Why do people need vitamin C?
Some people may need higher amounts of vitamin C than others. People who smoke or are exposed to secondhand smoke, for example, may require more vitamin C to reduce the damage of the free radicals that the smoke releases.
What happens when vitamin C is added to plant foods?
When vitamin C accompanies iron-rich plant foods, the body absorbs the iron more efficiently.
