Get Your C

Vitamin C ranks among American's favorite vitamins. While the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for vitamin C is 60 milli-grams, some physicians advise consuming between 250 mg to 500 mg a day because of its antioxidant effects, the vitamin's ability to neutralize free radicals that would otherwise damage cells, and therefore, contribute to lowering the risk of heart disease. Nutrition experts still advise people to make every effort to get their essential nutrients from a balanced and varied diet with lots of fruits, vegetables and grains and not from supplements.

Here are some top sources of vitamin C to keep in mind:

Of course some people may require a multiple vitamin/mineral supplement each day, including those who restrict calories to fewer than 1,200 per day, heavy smokers, heavy drinkers, people with malabsorption syndromes, poorly nourished elderly people, and those taking drugs that interfere with appetite. Always consult with your physician before taking supplements that exceed the Recommended Daily Allowance.