Certain sources of Vitamin C can help prevent and treat high levels of stress, along with the common cold. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps fight off foreign invaders throughout the body to keep our immune systems in shape. It's also helpful for repairing physical and emotional levels of stress due to the way it lowers inflammation in the body. Inflammation can both cause and worsen stress, therefore it's crucial to get enough Vitamin C in your diet so you manage stress easier. Many athletes also take Vitamin C supplements due to the way it helps repair muscles after harsh workouts that lead to inflammation. If you're suffering physical or mental stress, try adding some of these sources of Vitamin C to your diet. Because life's too short to be a ball of stress all the time, girls!
1. Strawberries
All berries are wonderful sources of Vitamin C but strawberries rank higher than blueberries, blackberries, or raspberries. Strawberries are best bought organic since they rank high in pesticides. Use frozen or fresh organic strawberries to make a super stress-fighting smoothie today!
2. Camu Camu Berries
Camu camu berries are a well-known superfood and also the highest source of Vitamin C of all foods. Just one teaspoon of camu camu berry powder (such as Navitas Naturals or Bright Earth Foods brand) contains 1660% of your daily Vitamin C requirements! This superfood powder has a slightly sweet, yet tart taste and is virtually sugar-free.
3. Blackberries
Blackberries are superstars when it comes to Vitamin C content! They're also high in fiber and very low in sugar. Blackberries are even higher in antioxidants than blueberries and make one delicious bowl of berry-flavored oatmeal or a terrific blackberry smoothie.
4. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are another fruit you'll want to be sure to eat if you'd like to up your Vitamin C intake. They're even packed with potassium and lycopene. Potassium can help lower high blood pressure that contributes to stress and lycopene is a well-known antioxidant known to aid in cancer prevention.
5. Onions
The humble onion isn't something most people think of when they think of superstar veggies, but onions are a fantastic food to eat for many reasons. Their Vitamin C content is exceptionally high, which is why a soup made with onions is great for fighting off a cold. I love to make homemade broth with onions, carrots, tomatoes, garlic, and lots of spices when I feel a cold coming on. In just days, I'm all better!
6. Zucchini
Zucchini is another fruit that's fantastic for you when it comes to Vitamin C and potassium content. Zucchini is a squash that's easy to find year round and can be prepared many ways. Try snacking on it raw with salsa, grilling it and dipping it in hummus, or even chopping it up and blending into a thick green smoothie.
7. Papaya
Papaya is a wonderful fruit most of us don't enjoy enough of. It's packed with digestive benefits due to high levels of enzymes and it's also a fabulous source of Vitamin C. Just don't throw the seeds away! They're totally edible and offer plenty of nutrients themselves. Blend a half a papaya fruit up in your smoothie with the seeds for a sweet dose of Vitamin C to make you feel your best!
8. Pineapple
Pineapple is extremely high in Vitamin C and potassium, which offers a great anti-bloating remedy if you're struggling in that area. Pineapple is great to consume after a workout or when you're sick to lower body pain and fight off inflammation. It's also high in water to help you stay hydrated.
9. Kale
Kale is a super green you're probably already eating but if not, it's time you start! Kale offers more Vitamin C than any other leafy green and many other fruits. Be sure to include some in your diet throughout the week. Kale salad, a green smoothie, and kale soup are all great ideas.
10. Mulberries
Have you heard of these little magical berries? They're one of my latest and most treasured discoveries I'd like to share with you. Raw white mulberries are very low in sugar, packed with iron, and filled with Vitamin C. They're a new superfood that resembles a raisin and blackberry in taste. The dried fruit can be found online and makes a great addition to overnight oatmeal or your favorite energy bar recipe. I like Navitas Naturals brand.
11. Lemons
Lemons are a fantastic detoxifying fruit for the liver and offer a nice dose of Vitamin C. Drink a glass of lemon water two or three times a day and use fresh lemon juice as your salad dressing in place of high fat oils or dressings.
Also, remember that Vitamin C tablets from your drugstore aren't the best source to up your intake of this important nutrient. Vitamin C supplements are usually made from ascorbic acid, which is essentially GMO corn. It's best to get your sources of Vitamin C through foods like these above. Do you eat any of these or have any ideas for how you'd like to try them?
Sources: psychologytoday.com, doctoroz.com,
stylecraze.com
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can vitamin C really help reduce stress?
- Yes, vitamin C supports adrenal function which can help manage stress hormone levels.
- What are the best food sources of vitamin C?
- Citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, broccoli, and kale are excellent sources of vitamin C.
- How much vitamin C should I consume daily to help with stress?
- Adult women should aim for about 75 mg of vitamin C daily, but slightly higher amounts can be beneficial during stress.
- Can vitamin C boost my immune system during stressful times?
- Absolutely, vitamin C strengthens your immune system, which can be weakened by stress.
- Is it better to get vitamin C from food or supplements?
- It's best to get vitamin C from whole foods for added nutrients, but supplements can help if your intake is low.
- Can too much vitamin C cause side effects?
- High doses may cause stomach upset or diarrhea, so it's best to stick to recommended amounts.
- How quickly can vitamin C help me feel less stressed?
- While vitamin C supports your body, stress relief usually comes from a combination of healthy habits over time.
- Does cooking affect vitamin C content in foods?
- Yes, vitamin C is sensitive to heat, so eating raw or lightly cooked fruits and veggies preserves more vitamin C.
- Can vitamin C improve my mood when stressed?
- Vitamin C helps reduce oxidative stress, which can positively influence mood and mental well-being.
- Should I consult a doctor before increasing vitamin C intake for stress?
- Yes, especially if you have health conditions or take medications, it's good to check with your healthcare provider.