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.
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Most Useful Reviews
8.5
Symptom relief
2 people found this helpful
These gummies are outstanding! At the first sign of a cough, sore throat, or body aches, I take this before bed and feel much better by morning. If I do get sick, taking this significantly lessens the effects, cutting my colds to just 2 days instead of a week. A must-have for bolstering your immune system!
Read More
9
Great cold remedy
1 people found this helpful
Excellent! This vitamin is my go-to at the first hint of a cold. I’ve tried several options—orange, tangerine—but the raspberry flavour is by far the most enjoyable.
Read More
10
Excellent cold remedy
This product is brilliant! I've been buying it for three years now. It's an excellent remedy for early colds! As soon as I sense body aches, I drink two or three packets throughout the day for a couple of days. It alleviates a cold remarkably. All my friends have started using it! I also give it to my child but at half the dosage. I recommend it to everyone!
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 56 Reviews
8.1
All Reviews
Positive Reviews
Negative Reviews
8.5
Symptom relief
2 people found this helpful
These gummies are outstanding! At the first sign of a cough, sore throat, or body aches, I take this before bed and feel much better by morning. If I do get sick, taking this significantly lessens the effects, cutting my colds to just 2 days instead of a week. A must-have for bolstering your immune system!
Read More
9
Great cold remedy
1 people found this helpful
Excellent! This vitamin is my go-to at the first hint of a cold. I’ve tried several options—orange, tangerine—but the raspberry flavour is by far the most enjoyable.
Read More
10
Excellent cold remedy
This product is brilliant! I've been buying it for three years now. It's an excellent remedy for early colds! As soon as I sense body aches, I drink two or three packets throughout the day for a couple of days. It alleviates a cold remarkably. All my friends have started using it! I also give it to my child but at half the dosage. I recommend it to everyone!
Read More
10
Solves winter cold
Amazing product! It resolves colds all winter long, has excellent taste, and works wonderfully.
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9
Supports children's immunity
I have been giving Emergen-C Vitamin C Daily Immune Support to my kids, and it's a fantastic addition to our routine! The mild raspberry flavour is very popular with them; they enjoy it in water without complaints. It dissolves quickly and seems to absorb well, which is great for quick benefits. Since we started using it, they appear to have more energy and stay healthier during cold season, with shorter recovery times when they do get ill. The powder contains natural, non-GMO ingredients without artificial flavours, which I appreciate. The container is user-friendly as well. Highly recommend it for parents seeking an easy, effective way to support their children’s health!
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.
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a critical role in numerous bodily functions. As an essential nutrient, it contributes to the growth and repair of tissues in the body, and it is vital for the production of collagen, an important protein that helps maintain skin, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels. Additionally, Vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant, which means it helps combat free radicals—unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress and contribute to various chronic diseases.
Moreover, Vitamin C enhances iron absorption from plant-based foods, making it a vital component for those following vegetarian or vegan diets. While many people get sufficient Vitamin C from a well-balanced diet that includes fruits and vegetables like oranges, strawberries, kiwi, broccoli, and bell peppers, some individuals might require supplementation. It's generally recommended to stay within the daily intake guidelines, as excessive consumption can lead to gastrointestinal disturbances. Overall, Vitamin C is not just a skincare celebrity—it's a fundamental part of maintaining overall health and well-being.
Vitamin C has long been touted as a potential remedy for the common cold, but the evidence regarding its effectiveness is mixed. Several studies suggest that while vitamin C does not necessarily prevent colds, it may reduce the severity and duration of symptoms if taken at the onset of illness or during periods of high stress. For instance, a review published in the Cochrane Database indicated that regular intake of vitamin C might shorten the duration of colds by about a day, especially in individuals under physical stress, like athletes.
It's important to note that while vitamin C can be beneficial, it should not be viewed as a cure-all. Maintaining a balanced diet with adequate vitamin C through fruits and vegetables, such as citrus fruits, strawberries, and bell peppers, is recommended for overall immune support. If you are considering taking vitamin C supplements specifically to combat cold symptoms, consulting with a healthcare professional is advised to determine the appropriate dosage and to ensure that it aligns with your health needs.
Based on user reviews, many individuals report experiencing relief from cold symptoms almost immediately after taking the supplement. For instance, users noted that symptoms dissipated rapidly, often within just a few hours of consumption, suggesting that the supplement acts quickly to alleviate discomfort when cold symptoms first appear Read Review. Users recommend taking it at the first hint of a cold to maximize effectiveness, with some stating that they have started to feel better within the same day of use Read Review.
Additionally, some long-term users have shared that consistent use of the supplement not only helps during acute cold symptoms but may also assist in reducing the frequency and duration of colds over time Read Review. Overall, users seem generally satisfied, stating that they notice a significant improvement in their symptoms shortly after taking the supplement, making it a popular choice during cold season.
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.
Based on user reviews, many individuals report significant improvements in their cold symptoms after using the supplement, often describing quick relief even at the initial signs of illness. For instance, one user noted that drinking multiple sachets in a day helped alleviate body aches remarkably, allowing them to feel better soon after starting the treatment Read Review. Another user stated they experience symptom relief so promptly that they recommend it to their friends and family, highlighting its effectiveness in curtailing the severity of cold symptoms Read Review.
In addition to addressing acute symptoms, some long-term users have noted a decrease in the frequency of colds when using the supplement regularly. One review indicates that a user has gone from catching numerous colds annually to just one, attributing this change to their consistent use of the product over several years Read Review. Furthermore, parents have reported enhanced overall health and energy in their children during cold season, thanks to the pleasant-tasting formulation that they find easy to incorporate into their routine Read Review. This combination of immediate symptom relief and long-term immune support underscores the potential benefits users experience, though individual results may vary.
Users report varied experiences when combining this supplement with other products for handling colds. Some users take Emergen-C alongside their standard vitamin regimen, claiming that it complements their health routine effectively. For example, one user mentioned, “I take Emergen-C daily, even twice a day if I’m catching a cold or feeling fatigued,” indicating that they find it beneficial to use in conjunction with other supplements Read Review. Another reviewer shared a perspective that Emergen-C noticeably improves their condition compared to other products, suggesting a preference for its efficacy over alternatives like Ener-C Read Review.
Additionally, several users have commented on how they incorporate this supplement into their family's routine, particularly during the cold season, to bolster overall immunity. One parent noted that giving it to their children has resulted in better energy levels and a healthier winter season, showcasing its role in a broader preventative strategy Read Review. While some have found significant relief using this supplement alone, others appreciate its synergistic effects when used alongside a comprehensive approach to immune health, promoting both immediate symptom relief and long-term resilience.
According to research, the optimal dose of Vitamin C for treating colds appears to hover around the 6-8 grams per day mark, especially if taken at the onset of symptoms. Studies have shown that this higher dosage can effectively shorten the duration of colds compared to lower doses, making it a potentially beneficial strategy for those looking to alleviate their symptoms more quickly [1]. Importantly, regular intake of around 1 gram daily was also associated with a reduction in cold severity and might seem to be a good preventative measure, particularly for those engaging in heavy physical activities, where the incidence of colds was cut in half with Vitamin C supplementation.
Nevertheless, the response to Vitamin C can vary from person to person, and while doses over 1 gram didn't show significant preventive benefits for the general population, the potential for higher doses to make a noteworthy difference during a cold is worth considering [1]. As always, it's a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before drastically altering your supplement regimen, especially at higher dosages.
9
Quick symptom relief
This is a super supplement! I take a sachet whenever I feel unwell. It contains a large dose of vitamin C (people with stomach or kidney issues should be cautious). For me, it works impeccably; my cold symptoms dissipate rapidly. Occasionally, I consume it for a few days. I recommend this to everyone—it's a must-have in my medicine cabinet!
9
Instant cold relief
I truly love this vitamin. It instantly alleviates the condition and eliminates the symptoms of a cold.
9
Prevents colds
I’ve been using this product for five years and used to catch many colds. Now, I only get one a year. It really works; if you feel a cold coming on, take two packages for prevention.
10
Excellent cold remedy
This product is brilliant! I've been buying it for three years now. It's an excellent remedy for early colds! As soon as I sense body aches, I drink two or three packets throughout the day for a couple of days. It alleviates a cold remarkably. All my friends have started using it! I also give it to my child but at half the dosage. I recommend it to everyone!
9
Best for cold
Emergen C is remarkable if you feel a cold coming. I have recommended it to numerous friends, and they all adore it.
9
Supports children's immunity
I have been giving Emergen-C Vitamin C Daily Immune Support to my kids, and it's a fantastic addition to our routine! The mild raspberry flavour is very popular with them; they enjoy it in water without complaints. It dissolves quickly and seems to absorb well, which is great for quick benefits. Since we started using it, they appear to have more energy and stay healthier during cold season, with shorter recovery times when they do get ill. The powder contains natural, non-GMO ingredients without artificial flavours, which I appreciate. The container is user-friendly as well. Highly recommend it for parents seeking an easy, effective way to support their children’s health!
9
Relieves cold symptoms
I discovered this product when my uncle gave me a box while suffering from cold. I drink it religiously every day, and my cold is relieved immediately. I take Emergen-C daily, even twice a day if I'm catching a cold or feeling fatigued. It’s disappointing that it’s often out of stock. The quality is superb, improving my immunity, and the taste is delightful. It doesn’t upset my stomach, though I prefer to have it after breakfast or a meal. I hope for more stock soon.
7.5
Rapid cold relief
1 people found this helpful
This product is remarkable! My wife and I caught a cold in Augusta, Georgia, and our hosts offered us some; we felt results almost overnight! I’ve tried Ener-C when Emergen-C wasn’t available, but it didn’t seem as effective. However, Emergen-C shows a significant improvement in comparison. I think the packaging could be more eco-friendly.
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