On April 4th, we celebrated Vitamin C day. Vitamin C is recognized for warding off colds and is clinically proven to be useful in other areas of our health as well. Vitamin C may help to reduce blood pressure, which in turn, may lower the risk of heart disease. It also has been shown to help lower the risk of gout for those who are prone to it.

Vitamin C is a powerful micronutrient that is essential to our health. It is considered the "go-to" supplement to boost the immune system during cold and flu season and offers great benefits to the brain, heart and skin year-round. It also helps to improve collagen production, so with sufficient vitamin C levels, your body can best produce healthy nails, hair and skin.

The following foods will help you get your daily dose of vitamin C: Brussel sprouts, blackcurrants, mangos, green or red bell peppers, cauliflower, oranges, grapefruit, tomato juice, cantaloupe, papaya, guava, broccoli, strawberries, yellow kiwi, hot green chili peppers, mustard greens and pineapple.