Netdoktor’s nutrient database reports substantial variation across everyday foods, and oranges fall well below several less familiar sources.
Vitamin C supports immune function and collagen formation, yet the body cannot store it. That makes consistent daily intake essential.
Herbs and berries
Netdoktor’s table of vitamin C sources places certain herbs and berries far above the citrus family.
Rose hips top the list, followed closely by blackcurrants. Aromatic herbs such as thyme and coriander deliver unexpectedly high concentrations.
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Their compact structure and low water content likely help explain why nutrients are so densely packed.
These numbers highlight a broader point: vitamin C appears across many food categories, not just fruit.
Netdoktor further explains that both fresh and frozen ingredients can act as full contributors, since freezing often preserves levels more effectively than prolonged storage in the refrigerator.
Preparation matters as much as the ingredient
Netdoktor adds that cooking method significantly influences how much vitamin C ends up on the plate.
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Boiling drains the nutrient, while steaming or microwaving tends to retain more.
As a result, the practical vitamin C content of a meal often reflects preparation choices as much as it reflects the ingredient list.
Raw produce therefore remains a reliable everyday source.
The site also cautions that consuming more than 1,000 milligrams per day, most commonly through supplements, may trigger stomach discomfort.
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Current dietary patterns show that adult Danes average roughly 110 milligrams daily, which aligns with recommendations.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women require higher amounts to meet increased physiological demands.
Source: Netdoktor.dk.
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This article is made and published by Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk, who may have used AI in the preparation.