Oranges boost immunity with vitamin C

Oranges are packed with vitamin C, a vital nutrient that powers your immune cells. This water-soluble vitamin helps white blood cells, like neutrophils and lymphocytes, fight off pathogens and produce antibodies. Just one medium orange provides about 70 milligrams of vitamin C, meeting most adults' daily needs. This connection was famously discovered in 1747 when British physician James Lind used citrus to cure scurvy, a disease caused by vitamin C deficiency. Today, we know vitamin C also acts as an antioxidant, potentially shortening colds by up to 14 percent. Eating fresh oranges maximizes this immune-supporting benefit.