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Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Vitamin C

Functions and Sources

What food source is the nutrient found in?

The best sources of vitamin C are fruits and vegetables. Citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruit, and tangerines are excellent sources. Other good sources of vitamin C are as follows:

broccoli, cabbage, and brussels sprouts

melons, kiwifruit, and strawberries

sweet peppers, potatoes with skin, and tomatoes

Here are some guidelines for eating fruits and vegetables with a high vitamin C content.

Choose fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables over canned products.

Cook vegetables only for a short time in a small amount of water.

Eat raw vegetables.

Eat sliced fruits and vegetables shortly after they're cut.

Keep fruits and vegetables refrigerated, and eat them while they're fresh.

How does the nutrient affect the body?

Vitamin C is important to many body functions. It helps the body do the following:

build and maintain collagen, which are fibers that connect tendons, ligaments, bones, and cartilage

heal wounds and bruises

keep the immune system healthy

maintain healthy bones, teeth, gums, red blood cells, and blood vessels

repair bone fractures

Vitamin C may reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases by acting as an antioxidant. Antioxidants help the body fight the effects of free radicals, which can damage the body's cells.

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