Vitamin C

Vitamin C plays an important part in the health of a baby. This vitamin increases iron absorption in the blood, enabling the iron to do it's job. For more information about why iron is important, refer to my post on iron here. Vitamin C also helps to build strong bones, fortifies the immune system, keeps blood vessels strong, and keeps red blood cells healthy. In simple terms, vitamin C is responsible for cementing new cells together. For more information about vitamin C please visit the following two website: WebMD and BabyCenter.com.

A lack of vitamin C can cause anemia because iron is not being absorbed into the blood. Vitamin C deficiency can also cause a condition called scurvy. Scurvy is characterized by aches and pains, bleeding/tender gums, and irritability. Although not common in developed countries today, scurvy used to be a serious problem. Babies and the elderly population are still at risk for developing scurvy because of a deficiency in vitamin C. Some scientists attribute some cases of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) to scurvy, though there has not been sufficient research proving causation. For more information on scurvy, visit the following link: eMedicine.

Thankfully, vitamin C is a nutrient that most women like to get. It is commonly found in citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, limes, strawberries, and grapefruit, or in other foods such as potatos, cauliflower, and broccoli. For a more detailed list go to: BabyCenter.com.

The best way to incorporate vitamin C into your diet is to eat a citrus fruit for a snack. One of my favorite ways to eat broccoli, is to bake a potato and eat it smothered cooked broccoli and melted cheese. Below is another recipe that is a delicious way to get your vitamin C.

Campbell's Kitchen Chicken Broccoli Divan

"This saucy classic pairs cooked chicken or turkey with broccoli in a cheesy sauce, which stirs together easily. Bake until piping hot and serve with hot biscuits or noodles." Prep Time: 15 Minutes; Cook Time: 25 Minutes.

Ingredients:

1 pound fresh broccoli, cut into spears 1 1/2 cups cubed cooked chicken or turkey 1 (10.75 ounce) can Campbell's® Condensed Broccoli Cheese Soup or Campbell's® Condensed 98% Fat Free

Broccoli Cheese Soup* 1/3 cup milk 1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese (optional) 2 tablespoons dry bread crumbs 1 tablespoon butter or margarine, melted

Directions:

1.	Arrange broccoli and chicken in 9-inch pie plate or 2-quart shallow baking dish.
2.	Mix soup and milk and pour over all.
3.	Sprinkle with cheese. Mix bread crumbs with butter and sprinkle on top.
4.	Bake 400 degrees F for 25 minutes or until hot.

Recipe taken from Allrecipes.com