An Apple a Day, Or Was That an Orange? Vitamin C Support

Dive beneath the peel of a juicy orange, and you'll uncover a distinguished scent, balanced with sweetness and tartness. 

The fragrance escapes, and immediately you've become invigorated. This bright, golden fruit is a standard go-to at the slightest onset of a cough or common cold and for more reasons than smell. Why is this the case?

Oranges and other kindred citrus fruits like grapefruit, limes, lemons, and kiwi are rich in vitamin C. They are superior in hydrating the body and building a more robust immune system quickly. Citrus fruit is densely packed with natural compounds called phytonutrients. They serve as antioxidants that modify immune responses to help prevent sickness and combat disease. 

GETTING VITAMIN C IN MORE WAYS THAN ONE.

Vitamin C is a water-soluble nutrient that requires daily replenishment because the body does not store it.

The benefit is this essential vitamin conveniently exists within a colorful array of foods beyond citrus. Nourishing vitamin C-packed leafy greens and root vegetables also provide a sustainable source for our bodies. Including regular servings of broccoli, kale, Brussels sprouts, turnips, tomatoes, and potatoes into your meal plan will yield a healthy supply. 

WHAT IS THE ROLE OF VITAMIN C?

Would it surprise you to know this nutrient is multi-purposed for different body functions?

• Vitamin C is necessary to make collagen. Our skin, muscles, bones, and blood vessels need collagen to thrive.
• It improves the speed of wounds healing.
• It provides cellular protection against infections. 
• It aids in the absorption of iron, lowering the risk of anemia.

Apples or Oranges?

To answer the question, should you eat an apple a day or an orange? The answer is both are beneficial, but the orange provides more vitamins, minerals and fiber compared with the apple. An orange also provides more calories (85 calories vs the apple at 57), but the additional energy it provides in the diet is balanced by the additional nutrient benefits.