Vitamin C is not just an antioxidant.
The National Institutes of Health notes that vitamin C is **required for collagen biosynthesis**. Without adequate vitamin C, the body cannot form normal collagen effectively. Severe deficiency can even cause weakened connective tissue and joint pain.
Fortunately, deficiency is uncommon in people who regularly eat fruits and vegetables.
Instead of searching for expensive “collagen-boosting” products, adding vitamin C-rich foods to your daily diet is a simple place to start.
## 1. Oranges
Oranges are one of the best-known dietary sources of vitamin C.
They are easy to find, naturally sweet, and can be eaten without much preparation.
### Why oranges can support joint health
The vitamin C in oranges helps provide what your body needs for normal collagen formation.
Oranges also contain plant compounds such as flavonoids, including hesperidin, that are being studied for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
That does **not** mean oranges directly repair cartilage or treat arthritis. Their benefit is better understood as part of an overall nutrient-rich diet.
### Easy ways to eat more oranges
Try:
