We investigated whether a daily vitamin C supplement could reduce the risk of catching colds. Over two months, 168 people took either the supplement or a placebo. Results showed that those taking vitamin C experienced significantly fewer colds and shorter durations of severe symptoms compared to the placebo group.
This supplement was well-tolerated with minimal side effects, and participants were notably satisfied with it. Overall, it seems that vitamin C may not only help prevent colds but also assist in faster recovery from them.
Read More
7
Vitamin C alleviates cold symptoms
Winter illness and vitamin C: the effect of relatively low doses.
We looked into how vitamin C affects cold symptoms through a well-structured study involving 622 volunteers divided into treatment groups. They received either vitamin C or a placebo over a 15-week period.
While both vitamin C groups experienced milder illnesses compared to the placebo group, there were no significant differences between the two forms of vitamin C used. Interestingly, those taking vitamin C spent about 25% fewer days sick indoors. This suggests that while vitamin C can alleviate some cold symptoms, we might not need as high a dose as previously thought.
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
Most Useful Reviews
10
Cold relief in a day
210 people found this helpful
The quality is simply outstanding. As soon as a cold starts, I take these pills, and within a day, the cold disappears. Besides vitamin C, there's calcium, which is a bonus. The tablets are quite large, making them tough to swallow sometimes. This vitamin, at 1000 mg, fully meets my daily needs. My immunity skyrockets; just two packs a year suffice. The results are visible, and I haven’t fallen ill. I follow my doctor's advice for taking them.
Read More
9
Effective during colds
104 people found this helpful
Vitamin C with bioflavonoids is highly effective; during colds, I often feel back on my feet within three days.
Read More
9
Great for quick recovery
87 people found this helpful
This drug contains palmitic acid, plant flavonoids, calcium, rutin, and other essential trace elements. I typically take two dosages - 500 mg regularly and 1000 mg for colds and illnesses. I’m very pleased! It’s effective, and I seldom fall ill, recovering quickly!
We investigated whether a daily vitamin C supplement could reduce the risk of catching colds. Over two months, 168 people took either the supplement or a placebo. Results showed that those taking vitamin C experienced significantly fewer colds and shorter durations of severe symptoms compared to the placebo group.
This supplement was well-tolerated with minimal side effects, and participants were notably satisfied with it. Overall, it seems that vitamin C may not only help prevent colds but also assist in faster recovery from them.
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
7
Vitamin C alleviates cold symptoms
Winter illness and vitamin C: the effect of relatively low doses.
We looked into how vitamin C affects cold symptoms through a well-structured study involving 622 volunteers divided into treatment groups. They received either vitamin C or a placebo over a 15-week period.
While both vitamin C groups experienced milder illnesses compared to the placebo group, there were no significant differences between the two forms of vitamin C used. Interestingly, those taking vitamin C spent about 25% fewer days sick indoors. This suggests that while vitamin C can alleviate some cold symptoms, we might not need as high a dose as previously thought.
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 181 Reviews
8.5
All Reviews
Positive Reviews
Negative Reviews
10
Cold relief in a day
210 people found this helpful
The quality is simply outstanding. As soon as a cold starts, I take these pills, and within a day, the cold disappears. Besides vitamin C, there's calcium, which is a bonus. The tablets are quite large, making them tough to swallow sometimes. This vitamin, at 1000 mg, fully meets my daily needs. My immunity skyrockets; just two packs a year suffice. The results are visible, and I haven’t fallen ill. I follow my doctor's advice for taking them.
Read More
9
Effective during colds
104 people found this helpful
Vitamin C with bioflavonoids is highly effective; during colds, I often feel back on my feet within three days.
Read More
9
Great for quick recovery
87 people found this helpful
This drug contains palmitic acid, plant flavonoids, calcium, rutin, and other essential trace elements. I typically take two dosages - 500 mg regularly and 1000 mg for colds and illnesses. I’m very pleased! It’s effective, and I seldom fall ill, recovering quickly!
Read More
10
First aid for colds
6 people found this helpful
During the cold season, I always purchase this and recommend it to everyone for the first aid kit. At the first sign of a cold, I take it every three hours over three days.
Read More
9
Strengthens immunity
5 people found this helpful
The best vitamin C wonderfully alleviates cold symptoms and boosts immunity. Please rate my review, may God grant you happiness.
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.
Ester-C is a patented form of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) that is known for its unique formulation, which includes calcium ascorbate. This makes Ester-C less acidic than standard vitamin C, making it gentler on the stomach for those who may experience gastrointestinal discomfort from regular vitamin C supplementation. One of the key features touted by manufacturers of Ester-C is that it is better absorbed by the body and stays in the immune system longer, although scientific research on these claims can be mixed.
In addition to its purported benefits, Ester-C is often marketed as a supplement that supports immune health, collagen production, and serves as an antioxidant, helping to combat free radicals and oxidative stress. It's available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and powders, making it easy to incorporate into your daily routine. While some users report positive effects and tolerance of Ester-C, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before adding any new supplement to your regimen, especially if you have existing conditions or are taking other medications.
While Ester-C is often marketed as a more bioavailable form of Vitamin C, its effectiveness in preventing or treating the common cold remains a topic of debate. Vitamin C, in general, plays a crucial role in supporting the immune system, and some studies suggest that it can help reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms when taken regularly. However, the research specifically focused on Ester-C's unique formulation has not conclusively proven that it is more effective than regular Vitamin C in combating colds.
If you're considering adding Ester-C to your wellness routine during cold season, it's worth consulting with a healthcare professional first. They can guide you on appropriate dosages and whether this supplement is a good fit for your individual health needs. While maintaining a robust immune system is essential, it's important to remember that no supplement can guarantee immunity against colds or flu, so a well-rounded approach that includes adequate nutrition, hydration, and rest is always recommended.
Based on user reviews, many individuals report experiencing noticeable results in just a day or two of taking the supplement at the first signs of a cold. For instance, one user mentions that their cold disappears within a day of taking the pills Read Review. Another user specifically notes feeling back on their feet within three days Read Review. The consensus among users suggests that starting the dosage early is crucial for maximizing its effectiveness.
Additionally, many reviews indicate that consistent use of the supplement leads to quicker recoveries and fewer instances of falling ill during cold season. One user highlights that taking two capsules consistently works to alleviate symptoms rapidly, often reporting recovery within a day Read Review. Overall, starting the supplement promptly at the onset of cold symptoms appears to be key in achieving the best outcomes.
Scientific research supports the use of vitamin C as a supplement for colds, indicating that it may not only help in preventing them but also alleviate symptoms and shorten their duration. A study involving 168 participants found that those who took daily vitamin C supplements reported significantly fewer colds and experienced milder symptoms than the placebo group [1]. Moreover, another comprehensive analysis of 622 volunteers demonstrated that vitamin C not only reduced the severity of colds but also shortened the time spent sick, equating to about a 25% decrease in days confined indoors [2].
While the benefits of high doses of vitamin C (such as 6-8 grams per day) were observed, particularly for individuals engaged in intense physical activity, the general directives suggest moderation, as doses above 1 gram per day did not yield significant additional benefits in preventing colds in the broader population [3]. Overall, vitamin C presents itself as a safe, effective option for those looking to bolster their immunity against common colds, making it a supplement worth considering during cold and flu season.
Users have reported significant improvements in their cold symptoms after using this vitamin C supplement. Many individuals note that at the first sign of a cold, taking the supplement leads to rapid recovery, often within a day or two. For example, one user mentioned that their cold completely disappears within just a day of starting the regimen Read Review. Another user indicated they feel back on their feet after about three days Read Review. The overarching theme in the reviews suggests that early intervention with this vitamin is key to achieving these rapid results.
Additionally, consistent usage seems to lead to fewer colds overall, with several users attributing their improved immunity to regular intake of the supplement. One user emphasized that taking the vitamin daily prevented them from falling ill, especially during cold season Read Review. Others shared that upping the dosage when symptoms emerge can significantly reduce the severity and duration of illness Read Review. While individual results may vary, the collective experiences reflect a robust positive response to the use of this vitamin C product.
Based on user reviews, there is a consensus that combining this vitamin C supplement with other supportive supplements—such as zinc and vitamin D—enhances its effectiveness in managing cold symptoms. For example, one user reports taking the vitamin alongside D3 and zinc for a more robust defense against colds, stating that this combination really helps Read Review. Another user shares their experience of using vitamin C with zinc and observing a rapid recovery, noting that by the next day, they felt significantly better Read Review.
Various reviews highlight that increasing the dosage of vitamin C or combining it with other vitamins at the first sign of a cold leads to quicker recoveries and less severe symptoms. For instance, a user mentions upping their intake of vitamin C when feeling unwell and experiencing a marked decrease in symptoms Read Review. This multi-supplement approach appears to be a common strategy among users for bolstering immunity and shortening the duration of colds, reinforcing the idea that synergistic effects can be achieved through careful supplementation.
According to recent studies, the optimal dose of Ester C for treating the common cold appears to be around 6-8 grams per day. Research has indicated that higher doses within this range can effectively shorten the duration of cold symptoms compared to lower doses [3]. For individuals engaging in heavy physical activities, the incidence of colds was reported to be halved when supplemented with vitamin C, further suggesting significant benefits at elevated doses [3].
It's worth noting that while lower doses below 1 gram show some benefits in terms of reducing the severity of colds and the duration of symptoms, the most pronounced effects seem to occur with the higher dosing strategy. Therefore, if you're considering Vitamin C for cold relief, aiming for up to 8 grams may deliver the best results, pending consultation with a healthcare professional to tailor the dosage to individual needs and circumstances.
10
Cold relief in a day
210 people found this helpful
The quality is simply outstanding. As soon as a cold starts, I take these pills, and within a day, the cold disappears. Besides vitamin C, there's calcium, which is a bonus. The tablets are quite large, making them tough to swallow sometimes. This vitamin, at 1000 mg, fully meets my daily needs. My immunity skyrockets; just two packs a year suffice. The results are visible, and I haven’t fallen ill. I follow my doctor's advice for taking them.
9
Effective during colds
104 people found this helpful
Vitamin C with bioflavonoids is highly effective; during colds, I often feel back on my feet within three days.
10
Seasonal saviour
4 people found this helpful
Great Vitamin C! It saved me during cold season—definitely a 5/5! People around me got sick, but I didn’t. At the first sign of a cold, I take 2 capsules, and it has consistently worked! They’re standard-sized capsules, easy to take, a must-have in every home.
9
Immunity boost
1 people found this helpful
This supplement helps maintain immunity excellently. After using it for five years, I’ve noticed I stopped getting colds, particularly in the cold seasons. I take it every day, and if I feel the onset of symptoms like a runny nose or sore throat, taking a pill helps prevent the disease from progressing. Its natural composition is impressive—I recommend it wholeheartedly!
10
Decreased symptoms significantly
1 people found this helpful
GREAT PRODUCT! This really works. I had a terrible cold and upped my intake to 3 per day (from 2), which decreased my symptoms exponentially.
7.5
Family remedy
1 people found this helpful
At the first sign of a cold, the whole family takes this in combination with D3 and zinc, and it really helps!
10
Fast results
Excellent vitamin C—it gets you back on your feet quickly. At the first sign of a cold, I take two capsules alongside D and zinc, and by the next day, the cold is gone.
9
Vitamin C reduces cold incidences
Preventing the common cold with a vitamin C supplement: a double-blind, placebo-controlled survey.
We investigated whether a daily vitamin C supplement could reduce the risk of catching colds. Over two months, 168 people took either the supplement or a placebo. Results showed that those taking vitamin C experienced significantly fewer colds and shorter durations of severe symptoms compared to the placebo group.
This supplement was well-tolerated with minimal side effects, and participants were notably satisfied with it. Overall, it seems that vitamin C may not only help prevent colds but also assist in faster recovery from them.
7
Vitamin C alleviates cold symptoms
Winter illness and vitamin C: the effect of relatively low doses.
We looked into how vitamin C affects cold symptoms through a well-structured study involving 622 volunteers divided into treatment groups. They received either vitamin C or a placebo over a 15-week period.
While both vitamin C groups experienced milder illnesses compared to the placebo group, there were no significant differences between the two forms of vitamin C used. Interestingly, those taking vitamin C spent about 25% fewer days sick indoors. This suggests that while vitamin C can alleviate some cold symptoms, we might not need as high a dose as previously thought.
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
Van Straten M, Josling P. Preventing the common cold with a vitamin C supplement: a double-blind, placebo-controlled survey. Adv Ther. 2002;19:151.
Anderson TW, Beaton GH, Corey P, Spero L. Winter illness and vitamin C: the effect of relatively low doses. Can Med Assoc J. 1975;112:823.
Hemilä H, Chalker E. Vitamin C for the common cold and pneumonia. Pol Arch Intern Med. 2025;135. 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. 10.3390/ijms251810093