Doctors Reveal Best Vitamin C Foods To Stay Healthy
During cold and flu season, it’s a great idea to focus on boosting your immune system, and one of the best ways to do that is by incorporating vitamin C-rich foods into your diet. Dr. Amy Myers, a functional medicine physician, highlights the importance of vitamin C for immune function, suggesting that plant-based foods rich in this nutrient can not only enhance immunity but also support other aspects of health, such as heart health, skin, and eye health.
While many people think of citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits when they hear “vitamin C,” there are also many vegetables that provide a wealth of this essential nutrient. For instance, broccoli contains 51 mg of vitamin C per cup and also supports detoxification and gut health. Brussels sprouts are another excellent choice, providing 74 mg of vitamin C per cup, along with other nutrients like fiber and vitamin K that contribute to cardiovascular and digestive health. Similarly, cauliflower offers 51 mg per cup and aids in digestion and weight loss.
Other great sources of vitamin C include avocado, which provides 18 mg per fruit and is packed with heart-healthy fats and potassium, and kale, which contains an impressive 130 mg per cup. Kale’s high levels of vitamins A and K, along with its vitamin C content, make it a great addition to a nutrient-dense diet. Papaya, with 88 mg of vitamin C per cup, is another excellent source that also supports digestion and heart health.
Fruits like kiwi, bell peppers, and mangoes are also beneficial for boosting immunity. A single kiwi offers 64 mg of vitamin C, while red bell peppers are especially rich in this vitamin, providing 118 mg per cup. Mangoes, with 60 mg of vitamin C, also help with digestion and are full of fiber. Lastly, watermelon, which contains 67 mg of vitamin C per cup, not only provides this nutrient but also helps with hydration, making it a refreshing and healthy snack.
Incorporating a wide variety of these foods into your daily meals can help prevent illness, boost your immune system, and support overall health. These nutrient-rich foods provide not just vitamin C but also other important nutrients, making them a valuable addition to any diet, especially during cold and flu season.
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