Scientists have long understood the importance of vitamin C for healthy tissue, bones, teeth, and cartilage. But new research states that it may also play an important role in proper brain function and overall health.

Researchers in Oregan found that not getting enough vitamin C might result in the retina cells in the back of the eye becoming overtaxed. Vitamin C protects specific receptors in your eye that control the release of glutamate, a neurotransmitter that speeds up this cellular communication. Without these receptors, you'll end up releasing too much glutamate, and the cells will continue to work themselves to death.  If too many cells die, you may end up with glaucoma, a damaging condition that affects the optic nerve responsible for carrying information from your eyes to your brain.

Speaking of brains, yours is filled with the same types of cells and receptors that exist in your retinas. Without adequate amounts of vitamin C, cell burnout could (theoretically) alter your brain’s chemistry in a way that contributes to health issues ranging from epilepsy to depression,

Since your body can’t produce its own vitamin C, it's up to you to keep tabs on the 90-mg recommended daily allowance from your diet. Try eating more vitamin-C-loaded fruits and vegetables like oranges (70 mg of C per medium orange), cantaloupe (65 mg per cup), and broccoli (80 mg per cup of raw florets).