Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, has many functions: helps maintain normal enzyme function; is important for the healthy growth of teeth, bones, gums, ligaments, and blood vessels; plays an important role in the immune systems response to infection and healing; helps in the absorption of iron from the digestive tract; acts as a powerful antioxidant, helping to protect the body against a variety of disorders including cancer.
Signs of deficiency include slow wound healing, bleeding gums, recurrent infections, a tendency to bruise easily and allergies. Severe deficiency can result in scurvy, though this is extremely rare in today's world.
Optimal daily amount: 2000 mg
Smoking, alcohol, pollution, stress, and fried foods will rob your body of its vitamin C.
Good food sources include papaya, red bell peppers (sliced, raw), broccoli, boiled brussel sprouts, strawberries, oranges, canteloupe, kiwi, cauliflower, boiled kale, fresh parsley, fresh lemon juice, romaine lettuce, grapefruit, ripe tomatoes, raspberries, asparagus, raw celery, spinach, cucumbers, pineapple, watermelon, green beans, cranberries, dried cloves, dried basil, cooked squash, blueberries, raw carrots, garlic, apricots, baked sweet potato, plums, boiled green peas, raw onion, dried oregano, baked potato with skin, banana, apples, raw shitake mushrooms, pears, grapes, cooked yellow corn, avocado
With a list like that, there's gotta be something you like to eat!
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