Getting enough vitamin C is not just a winter concern. Vitamin C helps the growth and repair of bones, teeth and skin, aids wound healing, helps iron absorption, helps prevent cell damage, and boosts collagen production. Collagen is the connective tissue that helps repair skin tissue, tendons, and blood vessels. Because vitamin C is water soluble, excess will be flushed from the body so regularity of intake is more important than consuming high doses. Citrus season is winding down but vitamin C is found in many foods: bell peppers, broccoli, brussels sprouts, berries, papaya, tomatoes, kiwi fruit, pineapple, mango, sweet potatoes, asparagus, lychee, watermelon, winter squash, leafy greens. When preparing vitamin C foods, consider that heat, light, and air can reduce vitamin C quality through oxidation.