Foods that Have More Vitamin C Than Oranges

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Load your plate with these vitamin C-rich eats to build your body's defense against cold and flu.

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Foods high in vitamin C

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If you chug a glass of orange juice every time you start sniffling, you may be onto something. Though studies show that consuming vitamin C can't actually prevent colds, loading up on the nutrient may help slightly shorten the length of time you're sick and reduce the severity of your symptoms. But despite their reputation for being loaded with vitamin C, the 69.7 mg that a medium orange provides is actually less than many other common fruits and veggies. To pack the ultimate vitamin C punch, fill up on these 12 superfoods.

RELATED: The Best Foods for Every Vitamin and Mineral

Watch the video: How to Juice an Orange

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Chili peppers

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A half-cup of chopped or diced chili peppers delivers 107.8 mg of vitamin C. Plus, researchers from the University of Buffalo found that capsaicin, the compound that makes chili peppers hot, may help relieve joint and muscle pain.

RELATED: 6 Sriracha Recipes For Spicy Food Lovers

Try this recipe: Red Bean and Poblano Chili

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Red bell pepper

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A cup of chopped red bell pepper contains nearly three times more vitamin C than an orange—190 mg. Red peppers are also a great source of vitamin A, which promotes eye health.

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Green bell pepper

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A cup of chopped green bell pepper contains less vitamin C than its sweeter sister, but at 120 mg, it's still 200% of your recommended daily allowance. Green bell pepper is also a great source of fiber.

RELATED: 12 Secrets to Grilling Perfect Veggies, According to a Chef

Try this recipe: Sausage and Peppers

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Kale

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In addition to twice your recommended daily intake of vitamin A and seven times the recommended amount of vitamin K, a one-cup serving of kale provides 80.4 mg of vitamin C. The nutrition powerhouse also delivers a sizeable dose of minerals and fatty acids.

RELATED: 7 Health Benefits of Kale

Watch the video: Fat-Burning Recipe: Kale, Grapefruit, and Hazelnut Salad

Try this recipe: Braised Kale

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Broccoli

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This cruciferous veggie provides 132 mg of vitamin C plus a punch of filling fiber for just 30 calories per serving. Plus, research shows broccoli may have cancer-preventing properties.

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Papaya

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Research shows that eating papaya can help clear your sinuses, brighten your skin, and strengthen your bones. A one-cup serving delivers 88.3 mg of vitamin C.

RELATED: All the Health Benefits of Papaya

Try this recipe: Tropical Fruit Parfaits

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Strawberries

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A cup of this superfruit contains 84.7 mg of vitamin C, plus healthy doses of folate and other compounds shown to promote heart health. Another unexpected benefit of strawberries? They may help whiten your teeth naturally.

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Cauliflower

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Whether you roast it, steam it, or mash it, eating a small head of cauliflower gives you a 127.7 mg dose of vitamin C, plus 5 grams of fiber and 5 grams of protein.

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Brussels sprouts

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These little cabbages are loaded with cancer-preventing phytonutrients and fiber, not to mention 74.8 mg of vitamin C. If you're usually turned off by their bitter taste, bring out their natural sweetness by roasting them.

RELATED: 7 Health Benefits of Brussels Sprouts

Try these recipes: Brussels Sprouts Recipes to Make Anyone a Believer

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Pineapple

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In addition to 78.9 mg of vitamin C, pineapple contains bromelain, a digestive enzyme that helps break down food and reduce bloating. Bromelain also acts as a natural anti-inflammatory that can help you recover faster after a tough workout.

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Kiwi

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One NLEA serving of kiwi (about 2 fruits) boasts 137.2 mg of vitamin C. The fuzzy fruit is also rich in potassium and copper. (Check out 15 more foods that are high in potassium.)

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Mango

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Taste the tropics for a 122.3 mg boost of vitamin C. Mango is also a great source of vitamin A, which like vitamin C plays a key role in immunity and additionally keeps your eyes healthy.

RELATED: 6 Health Benefits of Mangoes

Try this recipe: Chili-Dusted Grilled Mango and Pineapple

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12 Foods With More Vitamin C Than Oranges

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Foods high in vitamin C

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Chili peppers

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Red bell pepper

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Green bell pepper

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Kale

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Broccoli

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Papaya

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Strawberries

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Cauliflower

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Brussels sprouts

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Pineapple

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Kiwi

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Mango

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