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
7.5
Immune support
377 people found this helpful
I absolutely love this vitamin! It’s completely natural, without any synthetics. I recommend it especially to women who take Vitamin C regularly for collagen production. I've tested it during the winter with my family and colleagues; if you feel a cold coming on, increase the dose to 1 capsule every 2-3 hours for 1-2 days, and ensure you drink plenty of water. It's vital!
Read More
9
Effective supplement
49 people found this helpful
Best Raw Vitamin C! It's effective and safe for the family. It's made with unprocessed organic fruits, vegetables, probiotics, and enzymes for better absorption. I think the serving size of 2 capsules at once is too much; I prefer smaller doses throughout the day, especially during cold season.
Read More
10
Cold remedy
28 people found this helpful
Vitamin C saved me through winter and spring. At the first sign of a cold, I increased my dose and noticed my symptoms vanish by morning. Given my history of respiratory infections, this vitamin has truly proven itself.
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.
I absolutely love this vitamin! It’s completely natural, without any synthetics. I recommend it especially to women who take Vitamin C regularly for collagen production. I've tested it during the winter with my family and colleagues; if you feel a cold coming on, increase the dose to 1 capsule every 2-3 hours for 1-2 days, and ensure you drink plenty of water. It's vital!
Read More
9
Effective supplement
49 people found this helpful
Best Raw Vitamin C! It's effective and safe for the family. It's made with unprocessed organic fruits, vegetables, probiotics, and enzymes for better absorption. I think the serving size of 2 capsules at once is too much; I prefer smaller doses throughout the day, especially during cold season.
Read More
10
Cold remedy
28 people found this helpful
Vitamin C saved me through winter and spring. At the first sign of a cold, I increased my dose and noticed my symptoms vanish by morning. Given my history of respiratory infections, this vitamin has truly proven itself.
Read More
10
Reduces cold symptoms
11 people found this helpful
Vitamin Natural Cure! This vitamin cured my family’s colds. We take 1 capsule daily, and during illness, we increase to 3-4 capsules. I hardly remember when I last experienced a cold or cough.
Read More
9
Symptom relief
10 people found this helpful
I’m very satisfied! At the first signs of a cold, I take 2 capsules in the morning and evening, and within a day or two, the symptoms vanish. I've used it for 1.5 years without ever having a fever. I highly recommend it!
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 customers report experiencing noticeable results within 24 to 48 hours of increasing their vitamin C dosage at the first sign of a cold. For instance, one user mentioned, "At the first sign of a cold, I increased my dose and noticed my symptoms vanish by morning" (Read Review). Another review echoed this sentiment, stating, "I take 2 capsules in the morning and evening, and within a day or two, the symptoms vanish" (Read Review).
Users have also noted that factors such as dosage and timing can play a significant role in the effectiveness of the supplement. For example, one user advised increasing the dosage to "1 capsule every 2-3 hours for 1-2 days" to ensure better results (Read Review). Overall, it appears that with proper dosage adjustments, many users feel relief from cold symptoms relatively quickly.
Vitamin C has garnered attention as a potential remedy for the common cold, and recent studies suggest it could play a beneficial role. Research indicates that while vitamin C may not prevent colds in the general population, it can reduce the severity and duration of symptoms, particularly when taken in doses of 1 g or more daily. In a comprehensive review of multiple studies, findings showed a significant 15% reduction in cold symptom severity, which is particularly evident in individuals experiencing severe symptoms compared to those with milder ones [1][2]. Furthermore, for those under physical stress—like military recruits—vitamin C supplementation demonstrated a 20% reduction in the incidence of colds [7].
On the other hand, the efficacy of vitamin C appears to be more pronounced when administered proactively at the onset of symptoms, possibly shortening the duration of cold-related discomfort such as fever and chills [6]. Overall, while further high-quality research is needed to definitively affirm its benefits, existing data highlight the potential of vitamin C as a supplementary approach to manage common colds, especially for specific populations or under certain conditions [4].
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported significant improvements in symptoms when taking vitamin C during the onset of a cold. Users frequently mention that increasing the dosage at the first sign of illness has led to rapid relief. One reviewer stated, "I take 2 capsules in the morning and evening, and within a day or two, the symptoms vanish," highlighting the prompt efficacy of the supplement (Read Review). Similarly, another user noted a remarkable recovery, claiming, "I used this during the common cold season... the natural composition worked well for my stomach and the dosage was convenient" (Read Review).
Moreover, several reviews emphasize the importance of dosage timing and frequency, with users suggesting that smaller, more frequent doses can be more effective during cold season (Read Review). A common thread in the reviews is the overall boost to immune response, with many claiming a reduction in the frequency or severity of colds throughout the year. One satisfied user even reported, "I've practically stopped getting common colds," attributing this change to consistent vitamin C intake (Read Review). While these testimonials provide encouraging evidence, individual results can vary widely.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have found that combining this vitamin C supplement with other supplements can enhance its effectiveness in managing cold symptoms. A frequent suggestion among users is pairing vitamin C with zinc, which they report as a potent mix for preventing and alleviating common colds (Read Review) . Additionally, users have shared their strategies for increasing vitamin C intake when they feel a cold coming on. For example, one user highlighted taking higher doses at the onset of illness to expedite recovery, stating, "I take this in large doses at the first sign of a common cold" (Read Review).
Further reinforcing this idea, another user mentioned that during periods of increased vulnerability, supplementing with extra vitamin C—up to 4 capsules—significantly helps fend off illness (Read Review). Users have also noted that adjusting the distribution of their vitamin C intake throughout the day, opting for smaller doses combined with hydration, may lead to improved outcomes in combating cold symptoms (Read Review). Overall, user experiences suggest that strategic combinations and adjustments in dosage can optimize the effectiveness of vitamin C in managing colds.
Research suggests that the optimal dose of Vitamin C for treating the common cold is around 1 gram (1,000 mg) per day for regular supplementation, as this amount has been shown to reduce the severity of cold symptoms by about 15% [1]. For individuals involved in heavy physical activity, higher doses, particularly around 6 to 8 grams per day, may be even more beneficial, significantly shortening the duration of colds when taken right after symptoms begin [1].
In a population that experiences physical or environmental stress, Vitamin C may effectively help halve the incidence of cold symptoms [4]. Although it won't prevent colds for most people, its effect on reducing severity and supporting recovery makes it a worthy consideration, especially in strategies to manage cold symptoms more efficiently. However, as research continues, individuals should keep an eye on evolving findings and consult healthcare providers for personalized advice [2].
10
Cold remedy
28 people found this helpful
Vitamin C saved me through winter and spring. At the first sign of a cold, I increased my dose and noticed my symptoms vanish by morning. Given my history of respiratory infections, this vitamin has truly proven itself.
9
Symptom relief
10 people found this helpful
I’m very satisfied! At the first signs of a cold, I take 2 capsules in the morning and evening, and within a day or two, the symptoms vanish. I've used it for 1.5 years without ever having a fever. I highly recommend it!
7.5
Immune support
377 people found this helpful
I absolutely love this vitamin! It’s completely natural, without any synthetics. I recommend it especially to women who take Vitamin C regularly for collagen production. I've tested it during the winter with my family and colleagues; if you feel a cold coming on, increase the dose to 1 capsule every 2-3 hours for 1-2 days, and ensure you drink plenty of water. It's vital!
9
Natural composition
6 people found this helpful
I used this during the common cold season. The natural composition worked well for my stomach and the dosage was convenient.
9
Effective supplement
49 people found this helpful
Best Raw Vitamin C! It's effective and safe for the family. It's made with unprocessed organic fruits, vegetables, probiotics, and enzymes for better absorption. I think the serving size of 2 capsules at once is too much; I prefer smaller doses throughout the day, especially during cold season.
7.5
Prevention success
8 people found this helpful
Vitamin C works perfectly! Since drinking more vitamin C regularly, I’ve practically stopped getting common colds. Just remember that the 500mg dosage is per two capsules.
9
Immunity booster
7 people found this helpful
This is a must-have! Raw vitamins, unlike synthetic ones, don't upset my stomach. Vitamin C combined with zinc is a great formula for preventing common colds.
9
Quick cold recovery
3 people found this helpful
I take this in large doses at the first sign of a common cold. I genuinely notice that by the end of the day, my symptoms are significantly reduced or gone.
9
Irreplaceable remedy
4 people found this helpful
This natural vitamin C is excellent for treating a common cold. Upon feeling unwell, I take 2g (4 capsules), which often prevents me from getting sick!
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.
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.
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.
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.
5
Vitamin C's varied effects on colds
Potential Role of Vitamins and Zinc on Acute Respiratory Infections Including Covid-19.
We explored the role of Vitamin C in managing common cold symptoms through a review of existing studies. The focus was to understand whether this popular vitamin could help in reducing the incidence of the common cold or its severity.
Our findings revealed that Vitamins C, D, and E did not notably lower the incidence of the common cold in the general population. However, we did discover something interesting: Vitamin C appeared to be beneficial in individuals experiencing physical or environmental stress, reducing the incidence of the cold by half in those specific circumstances.
Moreover, while Vitamin C did not prevent colds, it did play a role in shortening their duration and minimizing the severity of symptoms. On the other hand, large doses of Vitamin A showed no effects on pneumonia recovery, and Zinc had some benefits for children under five, particularly in improving clinical deterioration.
Despite the inconclusive results regarding Vitamin C and overall cold prevention, it seems that taking this vitamin during stressful periods may still offer some advantages. Overall, while the results are mixed, there's potential for Vitamin C to be a helpful component in managing colds for specific groups.
References
Hemilä H, Chalker E. Vitamin C for the common cold and pneumonia. Pol Arch Intern Med. 2025;135. doi: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. doi: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. doi: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. doi: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. doi: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. doi: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. doi:10.1136/bmjmilitary-2019-001384