Boost Your Immunity: 10 Foods That Increase Your Body’s Vitamin C Intake | Health

In today’s fast-changing world, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is more important than ever, but did you know that one essential nutrient that plays a key role in supporting your immune system and overall health is Vitamin C? Not only does Vitamin C help your body fight disease, it also aids in collagen production, promotes healthy skin and acts as a powerful antioxidant.

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Deepika Krishna, nutrition and strategic health coach and managing director of Immunoscience Supplements, revealed five delicious foods that can help you increase your daily vitamin C intake.

1. Guava:

This tropical fruit is a powerhouse of Vitamin C, containing even more of the nutrient than an orange. One guava provides more than double the recommended daily intake of Vitamin C. Whether eaten on its own, blended into a smoothie, or mixed into a fruit salad, guava is a delicious and nutritious way to increase your Vitamin C intake.

2. Papaya:

Papaya is another tropical fruit rich in vitamin C. One cup of papaya contains more than the recommended daily intake of vitamin C. Enjoy it on its own or add it to smoothies, salads, and salsas for a refreshing, nutritious boost.

3. Brussels sprouts:

These little green vegetables are not only delicious, but they’re also high in Vitamin C. In fact, just half a cup of cooked Brussels sprouts provides more than 80 percent of your daily recommended intake of Vitamin C. Whether baked, sautéed or steamed, Brussels sprouts are a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal.

4. Pineapple:

Sweet, juicy and packed with Vitamin C, pineapple is the perfect way to increase your intake of this essential nutrient. Enjoy it fresh, grilled or mixed into a tropical smoothie for a refreshing, nutritious treat.

5. Broccoli:

This nutrient-packed vegetable is not only rich in fiber and antioxidants, but it’s also a great source of Vitamin C. Whether steamed, baked, or added to a stir-fry, broccoli is a delicious and nutritious food that boosts your immunity.

“By including these five foods in your diet, you’ll be sure to get enough vitamin C to support a healthy immune system and overall wellness. Whether you enjoy them on their own or incorporate them into your favorite recipes, these delicious foods are sure to keep you fuelled all year round,” says Dr Deepika Krishna.

Speaking on her expertise, Rhea Ekhlas Shroff, fitness and nutrition expert and founder of Body Fit TV and The Diet Channel, said, “In our hectic modern life, the value of consuming a balanced diet is often overlooked. However, there are few substances that can beat Vitamin C when it comes to your immune system and overall health. Not only is this effective vitamin essential for preventing colds, it also boosts collagen production and protects cells from harm.”

So, if you’re looking to increase your intake of this essential mineral, Rhea Ekhlas Shroff suggests five fun items to add to your shopping list.

1. Citrus fruits:

If life gives you lemons (or oranges, grapefruits, limes), make sure you include them in your diet. Citrus fruits are known for their high vitamin C content, making them an ideal choice for getting your daily dose of this immune-boosting nutrient. Whether eaten raw as a snack or cooked in salads or marinades, citrus fruits add a refreshing accent to any meal.

2. Bell pepper:

Bell peppers not only add color and flavor to your food, they’re also packed with vitamin C. If you love the sweet taste of red, yellow, and green peppers, incorporating these highly adaptable vegetables into your diet is sure to boost your daily vitamin C intake.

3. Strawberries:

Sweet and packed with Vitamin C, strawberries are a summer favorite that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether blended into a smoothie, tossed in a salad, or enjoyed on their own, these juicy strawberries are the perfect way to satisfy your sweet craving while boosting your immunity.

4. Cruciferous vegetables:

Vegetables like broccoli, kale and Brussels sprouts are excellent sources of Vitamin C, which is essential for immune function, collagen production and antioxidant protection. By including these nutrient-rich foods in your diet, you can increase your Vitamin C intake and support overall health and vitality while also getting the nutrients you need for optimal health.

5. Kiwi:

Native to New Zealand, kiwifruit is not only delicious, but also incredibly healthy. With more Vitamin C than an orange, this fluffy fruit is a delicious tropical delicacy that can be eaten on its own or mixed into a fruit salad for a refreshing flavour.

Rhea Ekhlas Shroff concludes, “Incorporating all five of these foods into your diet is an easy and delicious way to increase your daily intake of Vitamin C while improving your overall health and wellbeing. Next time you’re at the grocery store, be sure to stock up on these immune-boosting staples and reap the taste buds and health benefits.”