Did You Have Your Vitamin C Today?

Anyone who comes into contact with me can expect to be asked that question.

My children avoid this question by taking a daily dosage, as do most of my extended family members. My colleagues are realizing I will ask this when they volunteer their health conditions and it's not usual for someone to show up at my office looking for Vitamin C.

Besides being a powerful antioxidant, Vitamin C helps repair and regenerate tissues, protects cells from everyday stress and improves our immune system.

And there is plenty of proof. An article on Medicinenet, cited a recent study, published in Seminars in Preventive and Alternative Medicine, that looked at over 100 studies over 10 years. The study's lead author, Mark Moyad, MD, MPH, of the University of Michigan, points out that vitamin C can protect against cardiovascular problems, cancer and stroke.

Studies have also shown that Vitamin C can protect against immune system deficiencies, prenatal health problems, eye disease and even skin wrinkling.

As for dosage there is a debate. Many are recommending 500 milligrams (mg) daily but others suggest a higher dosage. Supplements are used since it's hard to consume that much.

However it's always a good idea to get vitamins from their natural sources so here is a list of some food and their Vitamin C content.


* Cantaloupe, 1 cup: 59 mg Vitamin C
* Orange juice, 1 cup: 97 mg
* Broccoli, cooked, 1 cup: 74 mg
* Red cabbage, 1/2 cup: 40 mg
* Green pepper, 1/2 cup, 60 mg
* Red pepper, 1/2 cup, 95 mg
* Kiwi, 1 medium: 70 mg
* Tomato juice, 1 cup: 45 mg