How does the Vitamin C content of a medium red bell pepper compare to citrus fruits?

Answer

It can supply well over three times the recommended daily intake, often exceeding citrus fruits ounce for ounce.

Bell peppers, especially the red variety, are exceptionally rich sources of Vitamin C (ascorbic acid). When comparing the nutritional contribution ounce for ounce, bell peppers frequently surpass citrus fruits, which are traditionally known for their high Vitamin C levels. A single medium red bell pepper can provide significantly more than three times the daily recommended intake for this critical nutrient. This large supply is fundamental because Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant, aids in protecting cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals, and is a necessary cofactor in the body's synthesis of collagen, which provides structural integrity to various connective tissues throughout the body.

Related Questions

How does the Vitamin C content of a medium red bell pepper compare to citrus fruits?What essential structural protein synthesis requires adequate Vitamin C intake?What nutritional change occurs as a green bell pepper ripens to red?Which specific carotenoids accumulate in the macula of the eye for protection?How is the body's ability to absorb fat-soluble carotenoids from peppers maximized?What compound is responsible for the deep red color in ripe bell peppers?Why is eating bell peppers raw or lightly steamed recommended for maximizing Vitamin C intake?What crucial cellular process requires the Folate (B9) found in bell peppers?What combination of features makes bell peppers beneficial for supporting weight management?What essential nutrient for low-light vision is derived from beta-carotene in red peppers?

health Vitamin nutrition vegetable bell pepper