Fruit as a source of Vitamin C
Mar 15th, 2008 by Susan
Fruit is good for you any time of day. One of the most important nutrients we get from fruit is vitamin C. This vitamin is important for healthy skin tissue and mucous membranes - such as the lining of your mouth, nose, and throat. It helps you fight off colds and other infections, too.
Your body can’t store Vitamin C. It can’t manufacture it, either. That’s why it’s important to have a good source of vitamin C every day.
Does every fruit have vitamin C?
Not every fruit has vitamin C, but many do. Citrus fruits, such as oranges, grapefruits, lemons and tangerines, are very rich in vitamin C. About 75 to 125 milliliters (a 3- to 4-ounce glass) of citrus juice will supply your vitamin C need for a full day. So will 250 milliliters (1 cup) of tomato juice, 500 milliliters (2 cups) of pineapple juice, a fourth of a large cantaloupe, or 125 milliliters (1/2 cup) of fresh strawberries.
You don’t have to get all your vitamin C at one time, either. There are lots of other things you can eat during the day to put together the amount you need. Broccoli and cabbage are excellent sources. Potatoes are good, too. But most people like to have fruit or juice in the morning because of its refreshing “wake-up” flavor.
