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Forget lemons and oranges. These 6 non-citrus foods are bursting with vitamin C

Whenever we think of vitamin C, our mind immediately goes to oranges and lemons. But it's time to change that with these non-citrus sources of vitamin C.
foods to build immunity
Vitamin C is not constricted to just citrus fruits. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
Team Health Shots Updated: 10 May 2021, 11:24 pm IST
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Vitamin C is one of the most important nutrients that the human body needs in order to function efficiently. This vitamin, which is also referred to as ascorbic acid, boosts our immunity to fight against common cold, allergies and flu.

Vitamin C helps you to deal with high blood pressure, gives you flawless skin, enhances metabolism, keeps weight under check, reduces the risk of chronic diseases and minimises the risk of heart ailments.

And if these did not seem enough, foods rich in vitamin C fight stress by decreasing the level of stress hormones.

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A study by Japan’s National Cancer Center Research Institute East found that having more vitamin C can increase blood antioxidant levels by up to 30%, which in turn aids the body in combat inflammation.

While we have all heard that lemon, lime, tangerine and other citrus food are rich in vitamin C, but there are several other edibles which give you the much-needed dose of it as well.

Wondering what these are foods are? Let’s find out:

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  1. Potatoes
    This vegetable is a rich source of vitamin C. This vitamin in potatoes acts as an antioxidant and prevents cell damage.
vitamin C
Whenever you need your vitamin C fix, it’s time to add more potatoes to your diet. Image Courtesy: Shutterstock

Since the skin of the potato has the maximum vitamin C concentration, eating this kitchen essential with the skin on could be more beneficial.

2. Guavas
Not many people say no to the guava, thanks to its delicious taste. The fruit has a high content of vitamin C and according to research, people who ate 400 grams of guava daily showed lowered blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

3. Bell peppers
Another rich source of Vitamin C is bell peppers. Scientists have found that eating a lot vitamin C-rich food helps to keep the eyesight good and may even protect against cataract progression.

Studies have found having fruits and vegetables which are high in vitamin C increases dietary iron absorption.

4. Broccoli
Having half a cup of cooked broccoli gives the body 51 milligrams of Vitamin C.

vitamin C
This broccoli recipe is high on Vitamin C quotient. Image courtesy: TCK by The China Kitchen

A number of studies have found that eating a good amount of the Vitamin C-rich vegetable lower stress, boosts immunity, and minimises the risk of cancer and heart diseases.

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5. Papayas
A bowl of this fleshy, pulpy fruit provides 87 milligrams of vitamin C to the human body. 

According to a study published in the journal, Mediators of Inflammation, 20 people who were suffering from mild Alzheimer’s were given a concentrated papaya extract for a period of six months and the results showed a decrease in inflammation and reduction in stress.

6. Strawberries
This red, juicy fruit contains a healthy mix of Vitamin C, manganese, flavonoids and other useful antioxidants. 

A study conducted by Oklahoma State University in the United States saw volunteers being given freeze-dried strawberries daily. They showed a decrease in the risk of heart diseases. Also, the bad cholesterol level in their body was reduced as well. 

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