Foods with Highest Vitamin C
Article reposted from Holistic American Health Academy member, Chryl Davis. When it comes to foods rich in vitamin C, most people picture oranges, grapefruit, and kiwis, but this essential nutrient isn’t exclusive to fruits. Known for its immune-boosting, skin-protective, and antioxidant properties, vitamin C is also abundant in several vegetables. Surprisingly, these overlooked sources often contain just as much or even more vitamin C than their fruity counterparts, making it easier to meet your daily requirements. The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for this vitamin is 90 milligrams for adult males and 75 mg for adult females. Without adequate vitamin C intake, individuals risk compromised immune response, impaired wound healing, increased susceptibility to infections and potential long-term health complications due to the body's inability to produce or store this crucial nutrient, 1. Yellow Bell Peppers Vitamin C: 342 mg or 380% DV Yellow bell peppers top the list as the vegetable with the highest vitamin C content, offering an impressive 342 milligrams in just one fresh pepper.2 This amount covers 380% of the recommended daily value for adults, making them an outstanding choice for meeting and exceeding your daily vitamin C needs. As a reference, one navel orange has almost 83 mg. But yellow bell peppers bring more to the table than just vitamin C. These vibrant veggies deliver exceptional nutritional value through their rich complement of antioxidants like beta-carotene and lycopene, which contribute to reducing inflammation and supporting cardiovascular health, 2. Broccoli Vitamin C: 101 mg or 112% DV With its tree-like appearance and dark green florets, broccoli takes second place, packing 101 milligrams of vitamin C in each cup.5 This generous serving provides 112% of your daily vitamin C requirements and a rich array of health-promoting compounds. Beyond its vitamin C content, this cruciferous vegetable contains sulforaphane, a potent phytochemical with demonstrated anti-cancer properties, and a robust profile of additional nutrients including vitamin K, folate and fiber.