Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a water-soluble vitamin found in many foods and supplements. The human body does not make vitamin C on its own nor does it store it. Hence it is important to include vitamin C fruits and vegetables in your diet. It forms and maintains bone, skin and blood vessels. Lack of vitamin C leads to scurvy. Vitamin C is also an antioxidant that strengthens your body’s natural defenses, may lower the risk of heart disease, reduce blood uric acid levels, helps prevent iron deficiency, boosts immunity and helps protect your memory and thinking as you age.
Fruits with the highest sources of vitamin C include cantaloupe, citrus fruits, and juices, kiwi fruit, mango, papaya, pineapple, strawberry, raspberry, blueberry, cranberry, and watermelon.
Vegetables with the highest sources of vitamin C include broccoli, red and green peppers, spinach, cabbage, sweet and white potatoes, and tomatoes.