vitamin C

(VY-tuh-min…) A key nutrient that the body needs to fight infection, heal wounds, and keep tissues healthy, including the blood vessels, cartilage, ligaments, tendons, bones, muscle, skin, teeth, and gums. It is an antioxidant that helps prevent tissue damage caused by free radicals. The body does not make or store vitamin C, so it must be taken in every day. It is found in many fruits and vegetables, especially green peppers, citrus, strawberries, tomatoes, broccoli, leafy greens, potatoes, and cantaloupe. Also called ascorbic acid .

(VIE-tuh-min SEE): A vitamin that is important to the immune system and many other body functions. Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits such as oranges, limes, and grapefruit. It is also found in vegetables such as tomatoes, green pepper, and potatoes.