Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a major role in maintaining the health of the body's connective tissues as well as acts as an antioxidant.
The benefits of vitamin C may include protection against cardiovascular diseases, immune system deficiencies, prenatal health problems, eye diseases and even skin wrinkling.
Vitamin C cannot be produced by the body on its own, so it is very common to have a vitamin C deficiency.
One of the most common causes of vitamin C deficiency is scurvy, which will make you feel fatigued and lethargic. The disease affects the bone and muscle strength and it stifles the immune system.
Health problems like high blood pressure, gallbladder disease, stroke, certain cancers, atherosclerosis, etc., occur when you have low levels of vitamin C in your body.
So, read on to know more about the top 10 foods that are rich in vitamin C to decrease the risk of vitamin C deficiency.
1. Guava
The aromatic and ripe guavas are one of the richest sources of vitamin C. 1 guava fruit contains 628% of vitamin C of the daily recommended value. Hence, if you eat a guava today, you need not worry about your vitamin C intake for the next day as well.
2. Yello/Red bell pepper
Yellow bell pepper is also rich in vitamin C. 1 large bell pepper contains 341 mg of vitamin C and you should consume this vegetable to boost your immunity and make your meals more colourful by adding them into cooking.
Red bell peppers also contain vitamin C. 1 cup of raw red bell peppers contain 317 mg of vitamin C. Red bell pepper also contains other vitamins and minerals that together will help to keep your immune system strong.
3. Parsley
Parsley herb contains high amounts of vitamin C and 1 cup of fresh parsley herb contains 133 percent of vitamin C. The herb not only adds to the flavour and taste of your dishes but also helps to boost your immunity. Start including parsley in your daily diet.
4. Kiwi
Kiwi is a delicious tropical fruit loaded with high amounts of vitamin C. 1 piece of kiwi fruit contains 273 mg of the daily recommended value of vitamin C. Kiwi has a sweet and sour taste and a smooth texture and also it is a great source of vitamin A, dietary fibre, calcium and other nutrients.
5. Broccoli
Broccoli is one of the healthiest vegetables and it is high in vitamin C. 1 cup of raw broccoli contains 135 percent of the daily recommended value of vitamin C. You can have broccoli by adding them in your smoothies or sauté it with other vegetables.
6. Lychee
Lychee is one of the highest vitamin C-rich fruits and it's not only sweet and succulent but also super delicious and healthy too. 100 grams of lychee contains 71.5 mg of vitamin C and these are also rich in potassium and healthy fats.
7. Papaya
Raw papayas are a great source of vitamin C. 1 cup of papaya contains 144 percent of the daily recommended value of vitamin C. Papayas are also rich in vitamin A, folate, dietary fibre, calcium, potassium and omega-3 fatty acids.
8. Strawberries
Strawberries are high in vitamin C and 1 cup of strawberries contains 149 percent of vitamin C. Strawberries are also a good source of protein and dietary fibre. These tasty fruits are a very good addition in salads, smoothies and desserts.
9. Oranges, lemon and lime
Lime and lemons are both citrus fruits, rich in vitamin C. 100 grams of lemon contains 53 mg of vitamin C and 100 grams of lime contains 29.1 mg of vitamin C. These fruits are low in calories and have zero cholesterol.
10. Pineapple
Lime and lemons are both citrus fruits, rich in vitamin C. 100 grams of lemon contains 53 mg of vitamin C and 100 grams of lime contains 29.1 mg of vitamin C. These fruits are low in calories and have zero cholesterol.
Source: Boldsky