Oranges and other Citrus fruits are not the only sources of vitamin C
Oranges are the first thing to come to mind when thinking about vitamin C. Afterall; a standard orange can fulfil a significant portion of the recommended dietary allowance of vitamin C. Then there are other citrus fruits like lemon, lime, tangerine etc., all of which obviously carry this water-soluble nutrient. But would you know that there are vegetables and other non-citrus fruits that contain a healthy amount of vitamin C as well? Suitably intrigued? Let's find out what they are.
Potatoes
One will not generally associate vitamin C with potatoes, but this widely available perineal tuber is a rich source of this vitamin. The vitamin C in potatoes works as an antioxidant and prevents cell damage. But do note that the maximum concentration of this vitamin is in its skin. So to derive the maximum benefits, it is advised to consume potatoes with its skin intact.
A single-serve (148 grams) of baked potatoes can release 45% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C.
Guavas
One can taste the acidic component in piquant guava. And the fruit indeed has a high content of vitamin C. According to particular research, those who consumed 400 grams of guava daily exhibited lowered levels of blood pressure and cholesterol.
Bell Peppers
Statistics hold that a cup of chopped red bell pepper has nearly three times more vitamin C than a similar quantity of oranges. Additionally, being a rich source of vitamin A, bell peppers help in maintaining good eyesight and can even protect against cataract progression.
Broccoli
Studies have shown that eating a decent quantity of vitamin C rich vegetable can lower stress, boost immunity and minimize the risk of cancer and heart diseases. One such vegetable is broccoli, a cooked half-cup of which contains 51 milligrams of vitamin C.
Papayas
Not just soft and pleasant to eat, Papayas are useful in reducing stress and inflammation. Mediators of Inflammation, a research journal carried a study in which twenty Alzheimer's patients were administered concentrated extracts of papaya for six months. All of them were reported to benefit from reduced inflammation and stress. A bowl of papaya is said to constitute 87 milligrams of vitamin C.
Strawberries
A group of researchers working for Oklahoma State University gave a set of volunteers a daily serving of freeze-dried strawberries. At the end of the study, they recorded the subjects to show a decrease in the risk of heart diseases. They also noted a reduction in the bad cholesterol levels in their bodies.
Besides vitamin C, strawberries also have magnesium, flavonoids and other antioxidants.
