Can Vitamin C Help You Lose Weight?

If you've been eating right and exercising regularly, but still not losing any weight, your metabolism may not be the culprit. According to a 2006 study done by Arizona State University, participants who increased their intake of vitamin C burned 30 percent more fat than those who didn't increase their intake. This helps explain why people with higher concentrations of vitamin C in their blood generally have less body fat and lower weight.

How it Works

Your body needs vitamin C to create I-carnitine. I-carnitine is an amino acid that helps the body burn fat. So while you may think you're metabolism is hindering your weight-loss efforts, it could indeed by a vitamin deficiency. You also need B6 and iron to make I-carnitine, but most people get enough of these nutrients.

According to the study, a daily intake of 1,000 mg. of vitamin C is sufficient in aiding weight-loss. The best way to increase your intake is to eat vitamin C rich foods or take supplements. But please consult your doctor before taking a new supplement. Some health conditions, such as kidney stones and genetic anemia, may respond negatively to extra vitamin C.

To make things easier for you, here's a list of food and juices that contain generous doses of vitamin C:

1. Your mother was right when she said you should drink your orange juice. One cup of orange juice contains a whopping 124 mg. of vitamin C.

2. One cup of chopped green pepper contains a hefty 120 mg. of vitamin C.

3. One cup of sliced strawberries contains 98 mg. of vitamin C.

4. This fruit may taste bitter, but it's good for you. Which fruit? Grapefruit. One cup of grapefruit juice gives you 94 mg of vitamin C.

5. Here's another reason to pile tomato on that salad. One cup of diced tomato contains 23 mg. of vitamin C.

6. While you're at it, add some broccoli to that salad as well. One cup of chopped broccoli equals 81 mg. of vitamin C.

What are you waiting for? Get out those measuring cups and start chopping. Remember this list the next time you're grocery shopping. Loading up on delicious vitamin C rich foods may just be the boost your weight-loss plan needs.