What essential vitamin, critical for immune function and antioxidant activity, is delivered by a medium baked potato with skin?
Answer
Vitamin C
A medium baked potato consumed with its skin provides significant amounts of Vitamin C. This specific micronutrient is recognized for its vital role in supporting the body's immune function. Beyond immunity, Vitamin C also functions effectively as an antioxidant, helping to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. It is important to note that Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin, meaning that if potatoes are prepared incorrectly, such as being chopped into small pieces and submerged in boiling water, a portion of this valuable nutrient can leach out into the cooking water, reducing the final nutritional yield.

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