Vitamin C is important to healthy teeth, bones and iron absorption. If you smoke, you -- and those around you -- may need more vitamin C than you think.

Smoking "uses up" vitamin C to clear out all the free radicals smoking causes. Smokers need about 1.5 times the amount of vitamin C as nonsmokers. New research shows that those who live with smokers or those who are exposed to secondhand smoke also need more vitamin C.

If you're a smoker, you should strongly consider stopping for your health and for those around you. But you should also increase your vitamin C intake. Female smokers should consume at least 110 milligrams a day, and male smokers should consume at least 125 milligrams a day.

Vitamin C is found in most fruits and vegetables, with citrus fruits, including oranges, grapefruits and their juices having the highest content.