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Humans are unable to make vitamin C and must get the vitamin through the diet. Cooking foods destroys portions of the vitamin, so the best sources are fresh, raw fruits and vegetables. Foods containing significant amounts of vitamin C include:

• Citrus fruits and juices (e.g., oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruit)
• Broccoli
• Bell peppers
• Kiwi
• Strawberries
• Cantaloupe
• Potatoes
• Sweet potatoes
• Cabbage
• Lettuce
• Tomatoes
• Brussels sprouts

In the United States, the average balanced diet fulfills the body’s requirements for vitamin C. If necessary, vitamin supplements are also available. Vitamin C is a common addition to multivitamins and is also available separately in tablets and powders.