Effectiveness of Vitamin C on ColdsVitamin C for the common cold and pneumonia.
We explored the effects of vitamin C on the common cold and pneumonia by examining a range of studies. Interestingly, research on animals suggests that vitamin C may have protective effects against infections. However, when it comes to preventing colds in the general population, taking more than 1 gram of vitamin C per day didn’t show significant benefits.
But there's a twist! Participants engaged in heavy physical activities saw their cold incidence reduced by half with vitamin C supplementation. Additionally, regular intake of 1 gram or more daily was linked to a 15% decrease in cold severity. While some therapeutic trials showed inconsistent results when vitamin C was taken after cold symptoms appeared, two studies did indicate that larger doses (6-8 grams per day) could effectively shorten the duration of colds compared to lower doses.
Our investigation also looked into pneumonia, but the studies were conducted in unique settings, such as a boarding school and military recruits. This makes it hard to generalize the findings to the wider population. Yet, some trials suggested benefits for pneumonia patients. Finally, the role of vitamin C in treating COVID-19 and sepsis remains unclear, with mixed results.
Given that vitamin C seems to alleviate symptoms and shorten the duration of colds, while being safe and affordable, it might be worth considering a dose of 6-8 grams per day to see if it helps at an individual level.
No more colds
Most Useful Review
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Flu and cold free! Every winter, like clockwork, I catch either the flu or a cold despite my efforts to avoid it. Living in New York City makes this especially challenging, particularly when using public transport with others coughing and breathing the same air. On a friend's recommendation, I decided to try this brand and Vitamin C, and I have yet to experience even a sniffle. Update: Since taking this as a regular supplement, I have not had a cold or flu since my original review. If I stop taking it and notice a scratchy throat, I take two, and magically, the scratchiness disappears.