We explored how vitamin C affects the severity of common colds through a comprehensive review of available studies. By including only randomized, placebo-controlled trials where participants received at least 1 gram of vitamin C daily, we aimed to investigate both the overall duration of colds and the intensity of symptoms experienced.
Our analysis found that vitamin C significantly reduced the severity of cold symptoms by about 15%. Interestingly, it appears that the benefits are more pronounced for those experiencing severe symptoms compared to mild ones. In specific comparisons, vitamin C didn’t substantially affect the duration of mild symptoms but had a notable impact on how long severe symptoms lasted.
This insight is crucial, as the common cold often leads to absenteeism at work and school, with more severe symptoms playing a key role in this setback. By highlighting vitamin C's greater effectiveness against intense cold symptoms, we suggest that future research should continue to look into how this vitamin can be utilized in managing cold severity.
Read More
8
Vitamin C's potential benefits highlighted
Bias against Vitamin C in Mainstream Medicine: Examples from Trials of Vitamin C for Infections.
We assessed the longstanding debate about vitamin C’s effectiveness in treating the common cold. This exploration reveals that evidence has consistently indicated that vitamin C can indeed help reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms in certain circumstances.
However, despite this evidence, mainstream medicine has often favored what we call eminence-based medicine, relying on influential figures rather than empirical data. The skepticism surrounding vitamin C largely traces back to three pivotal studies published in 1975, two in JAMA and one in the American Journal of Medicine. These studies have shaped the narrative in textbooks and nutritional guidelines, despite exhibiting notable flaws that we carefully examined.
Furthermore, we highlighted misleading reporting in recent randomized trials and critical editorials published in JAMA regarding vitamin C. While our critique largely focuses on this journal, it reflects a broader trend across medical literature, indicating a possible bias against acknowledging the benefits of vitamin C in fighting colds.
Read More
8
Vitamin C reduces cold incidence
Vitamin C supplementation reduces the odds of developing a common cold in Republic of Korea Army recruits: randomised controlled trial.
We conducted an insightful study to explore whether vitamin C supplementation can help reduce the incidence of common colds among Republic of Korea Army recruits. Our research involved a rigorous randomised, placebo-controlled trial that included 1,444 soldiers over a 30-day period.
In this study, we divided the participants into two groups: one received a daily dose of 6,000 mg of vitamin C while the other received a placebo with no vitamin C. We investigated the soldiers' medical records to see how many of them contracted a cold during the training period.
Our findings showed encouraging results. The group that took vitamin C had a 20% lower risk of developing a common cold compared to those who took the placebo. Interestingly, this protective effect was especially pronounced among recruits in certain training camps, as well as never smokers and those who were physically ranked at level three.
Overall, we observed that vitamin C supplementation appears to be an effective strategy for reducing the incidence of common colds in military settings, which may lead to considerations for implementing vitamin C provisions during basic training for soldiers.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Improved immunity
6 people found this helpful
Excellent product. This is my third purchase. I've noticed a difference since using it; the colds I suffered from during seasonal changes have gone. My immunity has significantly improved, especially combined with a healthy diet. Best wishes to those looking to care for their health.
Read More
9
Quick recovery
3 people found this helpful
Great company! I've used plenty of vitamin C from various brands without seeing effects. After using this one during a severe cold, I took 3 pills a day and, astonishingly, recovered in 48 hours. I wholeheartedly recommend it.
Read More
9
No winter colds
1 people found this helpful
Excellent vitamins! I combined them with zinc and had no colds throughout winter.
We explored the potential benefits of vitamin C as a supplementary treatment for relieving common cold symptoms. By analyzing data from 10 randomized controlled trials, all focused on patients in China, we sought to understand how combining vitamin C with antiviral therapy might enhance recovery.
Our findings revealed that vitamin C supplementation could significantly improve overall efficacy, with a reported relative risk of 1.27. Moreover, it was shown to shorten the time it takes for symptoms to get better and for patients to heal, compared to antiviral therapy alone.
While vitamin C seems to have a positive impact when paired with antiviral drugs, it’s essential to note that its individual effects might not be fully clear due to the combined treatment approach used in the studies. Nonetheless, vitamin C presents itself as a promising addition to traditional cold treatments, helping patients manage their symptoms more effectively.
Read More
8
Vitamin C reduces cold severity
Vitamin C reduces the severity of common colds: a meta-analysis.
We explored how vitamin C affects the severity of common colds through a comprehensive review of available studies. By including only randomized, placebo-controlled trials where participants received at least 1 gram of vitamin C daily, we aimed to investigate both the overall duration of colds and the intensity of symptoms experienced.
Our analysis found that vitamin C significantly reduced the severity of cold symptoms by about 15%. Interestingly, it appears that the benefits are more pronounced for those experiencing severe symptoms compared to mild ones. In specific comparisons, vitamin C didn’t substantially affect the duration of mild symptoms but had a notable impact on how long severe symptoms lasted.
This insight is crucial, as the common cold often leads to absenteeism at work and school, with more severe symptoms playing a key role in this setback. By highlighting vitamin C's greater effectiveness against intense cold symptoms, we suggest that future research should continue to look into how this vitamin can be utilized in managing cold severity.
Read More
8
Vitamin C's potential benefits highlighted
Bias against Vitamin C in Mainstream Medicine: Examples from Trials of Vitamin C for Infections.
We assessed the longstanding debate about vitamin C’s effectiveness in treating the common cold. This exploration reveals that evidence has consistently indicated that vitamin C can indeed help reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms in certain circumstances.
However, despite this evidence, mainstream medicine has often favored what we call eminence-based medicine, relying on influential figures rather than empirical data. The skepticism surrounding vitamin C largely traces back to three pivotal studies published in 1975, two in JAMA and one in the American Journal of Medicine. These studies have shaped the narrative in textbooks and nutritional guidelines, despite exhibiting notable flaws that we carefully examined.
Furthermore, we highlighted misleading reporting in recent randomized trials and critical editorials published in JAMA regarding vitamin C. While our critique largely focuses on this journal, it reflects a broader trend across medical literature, indicating a possible bias against acknowledging the benefits of vitamin C in fighting colds.
Read More
8
Vitamin C reduces cold incidence
Vitamin C supplementation reduces the odds of developing a common cold in Republic of Korea Army recruits: randomised controlled trial.
We conducted an insightful study to explore whether vitamin C supplementation can help reduce the incidence of common colds among Republic of Korea Army recruits. Our research involved a rigorous randomised, placebo-controlled trial that included 1,444 soldiers over a 30-day period.
In this study, we divided the participants into two groups: one received a daily dose of 6,000 mg of vitamin C while the other received a placebo with no vitamin C. We investigated the soldiers' medical records to see how many of them contracted a cold during the training period.
Our findings showed encouraging results. The group that took vitamin C had a 20% lower risk of developing a common cold compared to those who took the placebo. Interestingly, this protective effect was especially pronounced among recruits in certain training camps, as well as never smokers and those who were physically ranked at level three.
Overall, we observed that vitamin C supplementation appears to be an effective strategy for reducing the incidence of common colds in military settings, which may lead to considerations for implementing vitamin C provisions during basic training for soldiers.
We investigated how vitamin C affects the common cold, focusing on its potential for prevention and treatment. Research indicates that while vitamin C does not prevent colds in the general population when taken at doses over 1 g/day, it has been beneficial for individuals engaging in heavy physical activity, effectively halving their incidence of colds.
Looking into regular supplementation, we found that taking 1 g or more daily can reduce the severity of colds by about 15%. However, when it comes to starting vitamin C after cold symptoms begin, results are less consistent, though higher doses of 6-8 g/day did significantly shorten the duration of colds compared to lower doses.
Interestingly, historical studies showed that vitamin C might prevent pneumonia in specific populations, such as schoolboys or soldiers, but this doesn’t translate to the general public. While some trials indicated potential benefits for pneumonia patients, the evidence is not conclusive.
Overall, we see that given the evidence supporting reduced severity and duration of colds, along with its safety and affordability, it may be worth considering a higher dose of vitamin C for those looking to manage cold symptoms better.
Excellent product. This is my third purchase. I've noticed a difference since using it; the colds I suffered from during seasonal changes have gone. My immunity has significantly improved, especially combined with a healthy diet. Best wishes to those looking to care for their health.
Read More
9
Quick recovery
3 people found this helpful
Great company! I've used plenty of vitamin C from various brands without seeing effects. After using this one during a severe cold, I took 3 pills a day and, astonishingly, recovered in 48 hours. I wholeheartedly recommend it.
Read More
9
No winter colds
1 people found this helpful
Excellent vitamins! I combined them with zinc and had no colds throughout winter.
Read More
9
Good composition
1 people found this helpful
I take maximum dosage at the first sign of a cold. This Vitamin C works well, even when I combine it with iron and collagen.
Read More
10
Never caught cold
Since I started drinking this, I have not caught a common cold.
The common cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract, primarily affecting the nose and throat. It's caused by a variety of viruses, with rhinoviruses being the most prevalent. Symptoms generally include a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, sneezing, mild headache, and sometimes a low-grade fever. While the common cold is often mild and resolves on its own within a week or two, it can still be bothersome and impact daily activities.
Transmission occurs through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus. Preventative measures include frequent handwashing, using hand sanitizer, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals. Since there is currently no cure for the common cold, treatment focuses on symptom relief through over-the-counter medications, adequate rest, and hydration. While colds may be uncomfortable, they are generally not serious; however, seeking medical attention may be necessary if symptoms worsen or persist for an extended period.
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 remedy for the common cold, but the evidence supporting its efficacy is mixed. Some studies suggest that regular consumption of Vitamin C may reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms, particularly in individuals who engage in intense physical activity or have a deficiency in this vitamin. However, for the average person, taking Vitamin C after the onset of cold symptoms is generally not shown to have a significant impact on shortening the cold.
If you're considering using Vitamin C to fend off colds, incorporating it into your daily routine through fruits and vegetables, such as oranges, strawberries, and bell peppers, can support overall immune function. Supplements might be beneficial for those who struggle to get enough from their diet, but they are not a guaranteed cure. While Vitamin C isn't a magic bullet against the common cold, maintaining adequate levels can contribute to overall health and may help mitigate some symptoms. However, always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimens.
Based on user reviews, many individuals report noticing results from taking this vitamin C supplement within a short period, particularly when taken at the first signs of a cold. For instance, one user indicated that after taking three pills daily during a severe cold, they recovered in just 48 hours Read Review. Another user shared that they consistently take the product when symptoms begin and feel it helps them cope with illnesses more effectively Read Review.
In general, reviews suggest that users experience improvements in their immune response and a reduction in cold symptoms when the supplement is taken proactively during the onset of illness. Many report that the product has maintained their cold-free status through consistent use over time Read Review. While individuals may have varied responses, users tend to agree that earlier intervention with the supplement can lead to quicker relief from cold symptoms.
Numerous studies have explored the role of vitamin C in managing common cold symptoms, with varying degrees of evidence supporting its effectiveness. While vitamin C is not deemed a definitive preventive measure against the common cold for the general population, research indicates that it can reduce the severity of symptoms by about 15% when taken consistently at doses of 1 gram or more per day [1]. Interestingly, individuals engaged in heavy physical activity may benefit more, experiencing a halved incidence of colds [1].
Furthermore, some studies have highlighted that while vitamin C does not prevent colds outright, it can significantly shorten the duration of symptoms, particularly when initiated at the onset of illness [6]. A notable study involving South Korean soldiers reported that daily supplementation of 6,000 mg of vitamin C resulted in a 20% lower risk of developing a common cold [7]. Overall, while high-quality and comprehensive studies are still needed to firmly establish its efficacy, vitamin C's potential to alleviate symptoms and reduce the duration of colds makes it a supplement worth considering for those seeking relief.
Based on user reviews, many individuals report significant improvements in their health and immunity when using this vitamin C supplement. A number of users have highlighted their experience of experiencing fewer colds, especially during seasonal changes. One user remarked that since starting the supplement, they have not caught a common cold, attributing this to the product's effectiveness Read Review. Another user indicated that they successfully avoided colds throughout winter when combining the vitamins with zinc Read Review.
Moreover, several reviews underscore the benefits of taking vitamin C at the first sign of a cold, with users reporting quicker recovery times. For instance, one user shared that by taking a higher dosage during a severe cold, they recovered remarkably within just 48 hours Read Review. While some users have experienced varying degrees of impact, the consensus highlights that many feel a notable enhancement in their immune response, which has led to a notable decrease in cold symptoms when taken proactively Read Review. Individual results can vary widely, with personal health factors influencing effectiveness.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported positive experiences when combining this vitamin C supplement with other supplements for managing common cold symptoms. Notably, one user shared their success in avoiding colds throughout winter by combining the vitamin with zinc Read Review. Similarly, another reviewer mentioned effective results when taking the vitamin alongside iron and collagen, especially at the first signs of a cold Read Review. These combinations appear to provide users with enhanced immune support and have contributed to their overall health.
Additional reviews reinforce these findings, with users reporting that the vitamin C supplement, when taken in conjunction with a balanced diet and possibly other vitamins, helps improve their immunity significantly Read Review. Some have noted that increasing their dosage during cold episodes led to quicker recovery Read Review. Overall, combining this vitamin C supplement with other potential immune-boosting supplements seems to be a favorable strategy for many users in managing cold symptoms effectively.
When it comes to treating the common cold, research suggests that higher doses of Vitamin C can be particularly beneficial. A daily intake of at least 1 gram is advised, as studies have shown this can reduce the severity of cold symptoms by approximately 15%[1]. Moreover, some evidence suggests that starting Vitamin C supplementation at higher doses—between 6 to 8 grams per day—once symptoms appear can significantly shorten the duration of colds compared to smaller doses[1].
It's important to note that while Vitamin C won't necessarily prevent colds for everyone, it seems to offer more pronounced benefits for those under physical stress or during intense training, such as soldiers, where a daily dose of 6,000 mg resulted in a 20% lower risk of developing colds[7]. Overall, for those looking to mitigate the effects of a cold, considering a dose of around 1 gram daily, or even higher if symptoms manifest, may be a prudent approach.
9
Quick recovery
3 people found this helpful
Great company! I've used plenty of vitamin C from various brands without seeing effects. After using this one during a severe cold, I took 3 pills a day and, astonishingly, recovered in 48 hours. I wholeheartedly recommend it.
7.5
Effective against ARVI
2 people found this helpful
Live vitamin C! We've been buying it for three years; it works wonders. We take it at the first sign of a cold, helping us cope with ARVI faster.
10
Best product ever
Excellent! It may be the best product I've ever seen; I have never had a common cold since I started taking this. Amazing!
10
Never caught cold
Since I started drinking this, I have not caught a common cold.
9
No winter colds
1 people found this helpful
Excellent vitamins! I combined them with zinc and had no colds throughout winter.
9
Good composition
1 people found this helpful
I take maximum dosage at the first sign of a cold. This Vitamin C works well, even when I combine it with iron and collagen.
9
Improved immunity
6 people found this helpful
Excellent product. This is my third purchase. I've noticed a difference since using it; the colds I suffered from during seasonal changes have gone. My immunity has significantly improved, especially combined with a healthy diet. Best wishes to those looking to care for their health.
9
Effective megadose
I took a megadose when I had a common cold, and it worked. Jjang!
We investigated how vitamin C affects the common cold, focusing on its potential for prevention and treatment. Research indicates that while vitamin C does not prevent colds in the general population when taken at doses over 1 g/day, it has been beneficial for individuals engaging in heavy physical activity, effectively halving their incidence of colds.
Looking into regular supplementation, we found that taking 1 g or more daily can reduce the severity of colds by about 15%. However, when it comes to starting vitamin C after cold symptoms begin, results are less consistent, though higher doses of 6-8 g/day did significantly shorten the duration of colds compared to lower doses.
Interestingly, historical studies showed that vitamin C might prevent pneumonia in specific populations, such as schoolboys or soldiers, but this doesn’t translate to the general public. While some trials indicated potential benefits for pneumonia patients, the evidence is not conclusive.
Overall, we see that given the evidence supporting reduced severity and duration of colds, along with its safety and affordability, it may be worth considering a higher dose of vitamin C for those looking to manage cold symptoms better.
7
Vitamin C may alleviate cold symptoms
Efficacy and safety of vitamin C in the management of acute respiratory infection and disease: A rapid review.
We explored the effects of vitamin C on common cold symptoms, particularly focusing on how it may assist in alleviating those pesky issues that come with viral respiratory infections. The research indicates that taking vitamin C, especially at the onset of symptoms, might help reduce the duration of discomfort, such as fever, chills, and chest pain.
Additionally, we noted that vitamin C could potentially reduce the severity of symptoms related to common cold-induced asthma and might decrease the need for hospital admissions in some cases. While the overall evidence about vitamin C's effectiveness isn’t exhaustive, oral consumption may provide relief for many experiencing early stages of viral infections.
However, we must emphasize that there is currently no strong evidence supporting the use of vitamin C specifically for preventing or treating COVID-19, which shares similar symptoms with typical respiratory infections. Therefore, while vitamin C appears beneficial for common cold symptoms, further high-quality research is essential to validate its efficacy and safety unequivocally.
8
Vitamin C reduces cold incidence
Vitamin C supplementation reduces the odds of developing a common cold in Republic of Korea Army recruits: randomised controlled trial.
We conducted an insightful study to explore whether vitamin C supplementation can help reduce the incidence of common colds among Republic of Korea Army recruits. Our research involved a rigorous randomised, placebo-controlled trial that included 1,444 soldiers over a 30-day period.
In this study, we divided the participants into two groups: one received a daily dose of 6,000 mg of vitamin C while the other received a placebo with no vitamin C. We investigated the soldiers' medical records to see how many of them contracted a cold during the training period.
Our findings showed encouraging results. The group that took vitamin C had a 20% lower risk of developing a common cold compared to those who took the placebo. Interestingly, this protective effect was especially pronounced among recruits in certain training camps, as well as never smokers and those who were physically ranked at level three.
Overall, we observed that vitamin C supplementation appears to be an effective strategy for reducing the incidence of common colds in military settings, which may lead to considerations for implementing vitamin C provisions during basic training for soldiers.
References
Hemilä H, Chalker E. Vitamin C for the common cold and pneumonia. Pol Arch Intern Med. 2025;135. 10.20452/pamw.16926
Hemilä H, Chalker E. Vitamin C reduces the severity of common colds: a meta-analysis. BMC Public Health. 2023;23:2468. 10.1186/s12889-023-17229-8
Hemilä H, Chalker E. Bias against Vitamin C in Mainstream Medicine: Examples from Trials of Vitamin C for Infections. Life (Basel). 2022;12. 10.3390/life12010062
Murni IK, Prawirohartono EP, Triasih R. Potential Role of Vitamins and Zinc on Acute Respiratory Infections Including Covid-19. Glob Pediatr Health. 2021;8:2333794X211021739. 10.1177/2333794X211021739
Ran L, Zhao W, Wang H, Zhao Y, Bu H. Vitamin C as a Supplementary Therapy in Relieving Symptoms of the Common Cold: A Meta-Analysis of 10 Randomized Controlled Trials. Biomed Res Int. 2020;2020:8573742. 10.1155/2020/8573742
Schloss J, Lauche R, Harnett J, Hannan N, Brown D, et al. Efficacy and safety of vitamin C in the management of acute respiratory infection and disease: A rapid review. Adv Integr Med. 2020;7:187. 10.1016/j.aimed.2020.07.008
Kim TK, Lim HR, Byun JS. Vitamin C supplementation reduces the odds of developing a common cold in Republic of Korea Army recruits: randomised controlled trial. BMJ Mil Health. 2022;168:117. 10.1136/bmjmilitary-2019-001384