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.
Read More
9
Vitamin C improves cold tolerance
Application of Exogenous Ascorbic Acid Enhances Cold Tolerance in Tomato Seedlings through Molecular and Physiological Responses.
We explored the effects of ascorbic acid, commonly known as vitamin C, on cold tolerance in tomato seedlings. In our study, we discovered that applying vitamin C significantly boosts the seedlings' ability to handle cold stress.
By enhancing the antioxidant defense system, vitamin C treatment increased the enzyme activity in the seedlings' leaves. Additionally, it raised levels of important compounds such as proline, sugar, and abscisic acid, all of which play crucial roles in plant stress responses.
Our observations showed that vitamin C also protects the photosynthesis system of tomato seedlings. This implies that it helps maintain chlorophyll function, which is critical for the plant's overall health, especially under cold conditions.
Moreover, we found that vitamin C treatments led to increased expression of genes linked to antioxidant enzymes and cold response mechanisms. Overall, our findings suggest that exogenous vitamin C is a beneficial approach to improve cold tolerance in tomatoes and may provide helpful insights for farmers looking to cultivate hardier varieties during colder months.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Avoided catching colds
30 people found this helpful
Our best defence against the cold season. The quality of these vitamins has been verified for me. My children brought home bad colds from school, yet my husband and I avoided catching it despite being their designated nose wipers. My mother caught a cold despite the precautions. I now swear by these vitamins and the additional variety of Dr. Best vitamins I take daily.
Read More
9
Effective winter remedy
8 people found this helpful
I highly regard the etutorgovuyu brand. This vitamin is excellent for combating winter colds and flu. Be sure to take it to stay healthy.
Read More
9
Energy and immunity boost
3 people found this helpful
Great value in a big jar! This vitamin C has an impressive dosage of 1000 mg. We take it daily during the colder months, and it bolsters our immunity—we're not fearful of any colds. I even mix the contents with porridge for my young child, and it goes down well!
We explored the effects of ascorbic acid, commonly known as vitamin C, on cold tolerance in tomato seedlings. In our study, we discovered that applying vitamin C significantly boosts the seedlings' ability to handle cold stress.
By enhancing the antioxidant defense system, vitamin C treatment increased the enzyme activity in the seedlings' leaves. Additionally, it raised levels of important compounds such as proline, sugar, and abscisic acid, all of which play crucial roles in plant stress responses.
Our observations showed that vitamin C also protects the photosynthesis system of tomato seedlings. This implies that it helps maintain chlorophyll function, which is critical for the plant's overall health, especially under cold conditions.
Moreover, we found that vitamin C treatments led to increased expression of genes linked to antioxidant enzymes and cold response mechanisms. Overall, our findings suggest that exogenous vitamin C is a beneficial approach to improve cold tolerance in tomatoes and may provide helpful insights for farmers looking to cultivate hardier varieties during colder months.
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.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 171 Reviews
8.1
All Reviews
Positive Reviews
Negative Reviews
9
Avoided catching colds
30 people found this helpful
Our best defence against the cold season. The quality of these vitamins has been verified for me. My children brought home bad colds from school, yet my husband and I avoided catching it despite being their designated nose wipers. My mother caught a cold despite the precautions. I now swear by these vitamins and the additional variety of Dr. Best vitamins I take daily.
Read More
9
Effective winter remedy
8 people found this helpful
I highly regard the etutorgovuyu brand. This vitamin is excellent for combating winter colds and flu. Be sure to take it to stay healthy.
Read More
9
Energy and immunity boost
3 people found this helpful
Great value in a big jar! This vitamin C has an impressive dosage of 1000 mg. We take it daily during the colder months, and it bolsters our immunity—we're not fearful of any colds. I even mix the contents with porridge for my young child, and it goes down well!
Read More
9
Preventative cold measure
2 people found this helpful
An excellent quality product. This effective vitamin C has been tested repeatedly by my family. During cold season, I give everyone a preventive dose of 1000mg per day, preferably split into two doses to avoid gastric sensitivity. During illness, I administer 500mg every hour until there's a change. I then adjust the dosage for the first few days of illness, spreading it across several doses.
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9
Improved health
2 people found this helpful
This is a noteworthy supplement from Doctor's Best. Firstly, it is high-quality vitamin C from Scotland called Quori C, so you can be assured of its quality. I take 2 to 3 tablets a day, but as one tablet is 1000mg, I only need one tablet in the morning, afternoon, and evening. I haven't caught a cold in over 3 years since I started using this. Furthermore, I no longer worry about my skin's pores. I believe vitamin C is essential for health and beauty.
Cold is a term that refers to a state of low temperature, often associated with a perceptibly chilly environment or the sensation of being cool to the touch. Scientifically, cold is relative to the presence and movement of heat, which is a measure of energy within matter. In everyday terms, we experience cold through weather changes, such as during winter months, and it can also be described in the context of specific temperature ranges – for example, temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius) generally signify freezing conditions, which can impact outdoor activities, personal comfort, and various ecological systems.
Moreover, the sensation of cold is not solely dependent on temperature; factors like humidity and wind chill can enhance the feeling of coldness. When discussing cold in terms of human health, prolonged exposure to cold conditions can lead to hypothermia or frostbite if body heat is not effectively maintained. Hence, it's crucial to dress appropriately and take necessary precautions during colder months to prevent adverse effects. Understanding the concept of cold can help individuals better prepare for seasonal changes and ensure their comfort and safety.
Ascorbic acid, commonly known as vitamin C, is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for various bodily functions, including the synthesis of collagen, the absorption of iron, and the maintenance of a healthy immune system. Found naturally in a variety of fruits and vegetables, especially citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwi, and bell peppers, it serves as a potent antioxidant, helping to protect cells from damage by free radicals. Given that the human body cannot synthesize ascorbic acid on its own, it must be obtained through diet or supplementation.
In addition to its fundamental role in supporting overall health, ascorbic acid has garnered interest for its potential benefits in skincare and wound healing. Topical applications of vitamin C can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and improve skin texture, making it a popular ingredient in various cosmetic formulations. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in the body's ability to repair tissues and produce important neurotransmitters. For those looking to boost their vitamin C intake, incorporating a variety of vitamin C-rich foods into your diet or considering a supplement can be effective strategies.
Ascorbic acid, commonly known as vitamin C, has long been touted as a remedy for the common cold. While many people believe that taking vitamin C can either prevent a cold or reduce its duration and severity, clinical research offers mixed conclusions. Some studies suggest that regular supplementation of vitamin C can slightly reduce the duration of colds, especially in individuals exposed to extreme physical stress or cold environments, but it is less effective in the general population.
For those who are already experiencing cold symptoms, higher doses of vitamin C may provide minimal benefits. It's important to note that taking large amounts of ascorbic acid can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort and other side effects. Instead of relying solely on vitamin C supplements, incorporating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables—such as citrus fruits, bell peppers, and broccoli—can help support your immune system. Ultimately, while vitamin C can contribute to overall health, it shouldn't be seen as a cure-all for the common cold.
Based on user reviews, the time it takes to see results from taking vitamin C for cold relief can vary. Some users report that they experience improvements almost immediately, particularly when they increase their dosage at the first sign of a cold. For instance, one user mentions that symptoms vanish by the morning after taking a mega dose before bed at the onset of a cold Read Review. Other users, however, suggest a more gradual buildup of effectiveness, stating that regular daily usage over time significantly enhances their immunity and reduces the occurrence of colds altogether. For example, after three months of consistent consumption, one reviewer noted they hadn't caught a cold Read Review.
Many users concur that for optimal results, especially during cold season, it's best to take vitamin C daily as a preventive measure and to increase the intake as soon as cold symptoms appear. As one user highlighted, after taking two capsules daily, they noticed a remarkable improvement in health, with colds disappearing and overall well-being improving Read Review. Therefore, while immediate relief can be possible, many users find the greatest benefit comes from regular use over weeks or months.
Vitamin C has been a popular supplement for boosting the immune system and alleviating cold symptoms, and recent research sheds light on its effectiveness. A review of multiple studies indicated that while taking more than 1 gram of vitamin C daily does not significantly reduce the incidence of colds in the general population, its benefits emerge for specific groups. Notably, individuals engaged in heavy physical activities experienced a 50% reduction in cold incidence when supplementing with vitamin C. Moreover, regular intake at or above the 1-gram threshold was associated with a 15% decrease in the severity of cold symptoms, suggesting that while it may not prevent colds entirely, it can mitigate their impact on those who are active [1].
Furthermore, higher doses of vitamin C (6-8 grams per day) have demonstrated potential in shortening the duration of colds, although individual responses can vary [1]. Despite mixed outcomes with therapeutic trials, the overall evidence points toward vitamin C being a safe and potentially beneficial supplement to consider when facing a cold, particularly for active individuals or during peak illness seasons. Thus, if you're looking to support your immune response, a carefully monitored vitamin C regimen could indeed be worth exploring for its effects on colds.
Users have reported significant improvements in their symptoms after incorporating vitamin C into their daily routine. Many have noted that regular intake, especially during colder months, helps boost their overall immunity, effectively reducing the frequency and severity of colds. For instance, one user mentioned not having caught a cold in over three years since they began taking vitamin C daily, and another cited a marked reduction in illness and a notable increase in energy levels after starting the supplement Read ReviewRead Review.
Additionally, many users reported immediate relief from cold symptoms when they escalated their dosage at the first sign of illness. One user shared their experience of symptoms vanishing by morning after taking a mega dose before bedtime Read Review, while another mentioned shorter recovery times for their children’s colds without relying on other medications Read Review. These anecdotes illustrate that while individual experiences may vary, consistent use of vitamin C appears to provide notable benefits for users looking to bolster their health and combat colds.
Users have shared their experiences combining vitamin C with other supplements for dealing with cold symptoms, indicating overall positive synergies. One user specifically mentioned that the inclusion of quercetin in Doctor's Best Vitamin C significantly boosted their immunity during the cold season, with improved absorption leading to fewer illnesses and enhanced energy levels Read Review. Another user has reported achieving better results by increasing their vitamin C dosage at the onset of a cold, administering up to 5 pills before bed, which they claimed helped alleviate symptoms by the following morning Read Review.
Moreover, multiple reviews emphasized the effectiveness of vitamin C when taken daily, particularly during colder months, which users noted as crucial in staving off colds altogether. Some users even complemented their vitamin C regimen with dietary adjustments, such as mixing it into porridge for children to ensure easier consumption Read Review. Overall, the combination of vitamin C with additional supportive measures appears to provide users with a robust defensive strategy against colds, while individual experiences may vary depending on personal health and supplementary intake.
When it comes to using Ascorbic Acid, or vitamin C, for treating the common cold, research suggests that an optimal daily dose is around 1 gram for general health benefits. However, for active individuals participating in heavy physical activities, this dosage can reduce the incidence of colds by nearly half. More intriguing is that taking doses between 6 to 8 grams per day has been shown to significantly shorten the duration of cold symptoms, offering a stronger therapeutic approach for those looking to reduce their recovery time [1].
The safety and affordability of vitamin C make it an appealing option for many individuals who want to alleviate their cold symptoms. While taking 1 gram consistently can decrease the severity of colds by about 15%, the higher dosing levels might provide even more relief for those suffering from more serious cold symptoms. Ultimately, it could be worthwhile to experiment with higher doses, especially during particularly harsh cold seasons, always consulting with a healthcare provider beforehand [1].
9
Disappeared cold
Since I began taking vitamin C, my gums stopped bleeding, stomachaches resolved, and heartburn disappeared. I take 2 or 3 pills daily, and at the first sign of a cold, I take 5 before bed. My symptoms vanish by morning, leaving me in good condition. It's an indispensable vitamin for me.
10
Cold prevention
After three months of consumption, I've yet to catch a cold.
9
Improved immunity
1 people found this helpful
Excellent dietary supplement! Vitamin C is a reliable brand of the highest quality. I bought it for my mother, who often fell ill. Colds became difficult to bear, and her health declined. The doctor recommended vitamin C to combat the virus quickly and avoid complications. After a month of taking two capsules daily as prescribed, my mother’s immunity and overall health improved remarkably. The pesky colds disappeared, and she felt less fatigued. The effectiveness of the supplement is quick, and we are very satisfied with the results.
9
Improved health
2 people found this helpful
This is a noteworthy supplement from Doctor's Best. Firstly, it is high-quality vitamin C from Scotland called Quori C, so you can be assured of its quality. I take 2 to 3 tablets a day, but as one tablet is 1000mg, I only need one tablet in the morning, afternoon, and evening. I haven't caught a cold in over 3 years since I started using this. Furthermore, I no longer worry about my skin's pores. I believe vitamin C is essential for health and beauty.
9
Strengthens immune system
Doctor's Best Vitamin C with QC is excellent immune support. I always take vitamin C to guard against colds and to strengthen my body; the addition of quercetin enhances its effectiveness by improving absorption. This product has bolstered my immune system during the cold season and boosted my energy levels. The capsules are easy to swallow, and I feel much better and fall ill less often.
9
Strong immune support
This is excellent. I take it every day in the morning. It’s great for general health. If my children have a cold, recovery takes only three days without using cold medicines, greatly boosting the immune system.
9
Energy and immunity boost
3 people found this helpful
Great value in a big jar! This vitamin C has an impressive dosage of 1000 mg. We take it daily during the colder months, and it bolsters our immunity—we're not fearful of any colds. I even mix the contents with porridge for my young child, and it goes down well!
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.
References
Hemilä H, Chalker E. Vitamin C for the common cold and pneumonia. Pol Arch Intern Med. 2025;135. doi:10.20452/pamw.16926
Wang X, Ran C, Fu Y, Han L, Yang X, et al. Application of Exogenous Ascorbic Acid Enhances Cold Tolerance in Tomato Seedlings through Molecular and Physiological Responses. Int J Mol Sci. 2024;25. doi:10.3390/ijms251810093