We explored the relationship between vitamin C and influenza, delving into various studies conducted from 2000 to June 2021. In our analysis of the research, we found eleven studies that specifically examined the effects of vitamin C on influenza.
While some of these studies reported positive outcomes, we should note that the isolated benefits of vitamin C can be hard to determine. This is primarily because some studies included additional treatments, making it difficult to draw definitive conclusions about vitamin C alone.
Overall, we observed that while there is some interest and preliminary evidence regarding the efficacy of vitamin C in preventing or treating influenza, its stand-alone effectiveness remains somewhat unclear.
Continued research should help clarify how much vitamin C can truly contribute to combating influenza.
Read More
7
Vitamin C impacts respiratory mortality
Serum antioxidant status and mortality from influenza and pneumonia in US adults.
We examined how serum levels of vitamin C could influence mortality rates from influenza and pneumonia. The study analyzed data from 7,428 participants aged 45 and older, utilizing information from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES-III).
Through our research, we discovered that vitamin C, along with other antioxidants like carotenoids, showed a nonlinear relationship with mortality from these respiratory illnesses. Specifically, those in the third quartile of serum vitamin C displayed a lower risk of dying from influenza or pneumonia compared to those in the lowest quartile, with a hazard ratio of 0.38.
This implies that having a moderately high level of vitamin C may help reduce the risk of mortality from these diseases. However, the protective effect seemed to weaken for those in the highest quartile of vitamin C, suggesting a more complex relationship.
Overall, this study highlights the potential benefits of maintaining healthy levels of vitamin C in the blood, indicating that antioxidant intake may positively influence mortality risk among adults facing influenza or pneumonia. Nevertheless, more research is needed in diverse populations to confirm these findings and explore their implications further.
Read More
7
Vitamin C's impact on RTIs
Effect of micronutrient supplements on influenza and other respiratory tract infections among adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
We systematically reviewed how vitamin C affects respiratory tract infections (RTIs), including influenza. This involved analyzing results from numerous studies to understand how effective vitamin C is in either preventing these infections or alleviating their symptoms.
Our findings reveal that vitamin C supplementation can reduce the risk of RTIs, with a reported risk ratio of 0.96. This means that taking vitamin C may lower the chance of getting an RTI compared to not taking it at all.
Additionally, we observed that vitamin C can help shorten the duration of symptoms by approximately 9%, making recovery from a potential influenza infection a bit quicker. Interestingly, the benefits of vitamin C seemed to be more pronounced among men and in populations from middle-income countries, compared to women and those in higher-income areas.
While the results are promising, it’s essential to note that vitamin C alone might not be a complete solution for preventing influenza. More research is necessary to fully understand its effectiveness, particularly in light of other emerging viruses and health challenges.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Natural source
Although the price is steep, this high-quality vitamin C, sourced naturally, is very effective during influenza and colds.
Read More
9
Enhanced effectiveness
The powerful vitamin C from Herb, combined with zinc, enhances its effectiveness against influenza, as it’s composed of completely natural materials.
Read More
7.5
Strengthens immunity
Vitamin C is fantastic, especially for influenza symptoms and boosting immunity.
We investigated the potential of a unique formulation combining vitamin C with a complex of alkaloids to combat the H1N1 influenza virus. Our approach involved creating nanoparticles that encapsulate both the alkaloid-rich fraction and ascorbic acid (vitamin C) to enhance the water solubility and bioavailability of these components.
The results were promising, showing that our formulated nanoparticles had a significant selective antiviral effect against the H1N1 virus, achieving an IC50 of 2.7 μg/mL. Notably, this effect was observed without harming the host cells, suggesting that the treatment could be both effective and safe.
However, it's important to note that while the presence of vitamin C in the formulation seems beneficial, we also included other active ingredients, making it difficult to assess the isolated impact of vitamin C alone. The combination of these elements appears to contribute to the overall effectiveness against influenza.
In summary, our findings indicate that this new delivery system might be a promising avenue for treating influenza viruses, with vitamin C playing a supportive role among other powerful components.
Read More
7
Vitamin C's unclear influenza impact
The Role of Some Vitamins in Respiratory-related Viral Infections: A Narrative Review.
We explored the relationship between vitamin C and influenza, delving into various studies conducted from 2000 to June 2021. In our analysis of the research, we found eleven studies that specifically examined the effects of vitamin C on influenza.
While some of these studies reported positive outcomes, we should note that the isolated benefits of vitamin C can be hard to determine. This is primarily because some studies included additional treatments, making it difficult to draw definitive conclusions about vitamin C alone.
Overall, we observed that while there is some interest and preliminary evidence regarding the efficacy of vitamin C in preventing or treating influenza, its stand-alone effectiveness remains somewhat unclear.
Continued research should help clarify how much vitamin C can truly contribute to combating influenza.
Read More
7
Vitamin treatment showed mixed results
[Effect and mechanism of acupoint injection on influenza A virus induced pneumonia in mice].
We investigated how an acupoint injection containing vitamin C and B complex affected pneumonia triggered by the influenza A virus in mice. In our study, we used 60 male mice that were divided into six groups to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment. One group received the vitamin solution through acupoint injections, while others received it through different methods, including intraperitoneally and at non-target points.
Our findings indicated that the acupoint injections helped reduce inflammatory responses and oxidative stress in the lung tissue of the mice. We observed improvements in survival rates and longer survival times, despite no significant impact on the viral load in the lungs. This suggests that while vitamin injections can offer some protective benefits, they do not eliminate the virus itself.
Overall, while we found some positive effects of using the V+VCo solution, the results highlight the complexity of treating viral infections like influenza. It seems that vitamin C, combined with other vitamins, can be beneficial for managing symptoms, but it doesn't directly attack the virus.
Read More
7
Vitamin C impacts respiratory mortality
Serum antioxidant status and mortality from influenza and pneumonia in US adults.
We examined how serum levels of vitamin C could influence mortality rates from influenza and pneumonia. The study analyzed data from 7,428 participants aged 45 and older, utilizing information from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES-III).
Through our research, we discovered that vitamin C, along with other antioxidants like carotenoids, showed a nonlinear relationship with mortality from these respiratory illnesses. Specifically, those in the third quartile of serum vitamin C displayed a lower risk of dying from influenza or pneumonia compared to those in the lowest quartile, with a hazard ratio of 0.38.
This implies that having a moderately high level of vitamin C may help reduce the risk of mortality from these diseases. However, the protective effect seemed to weaken for those in the highest quartile of vitamin C, suggesting a more complex relationship.
Overall, this study highlights the potential benefits of maintaining healthy levels of vitamin C in the blood, indicating that antioxidant intake may positively influence mortality risk among adults facing influenza or pneumonia. Nevertheless, more research is needed in diverse populations to confirm these findings and explore their implications further.
Read More
7
Vitamin C's impact on RTIs
Effect of micronutrient supplements on influenza and other respiratory tract infections among adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
We systematically reviewed how vitamin C affects respiratory tract infections (RTIs), including influenza. This involved analyzing results from numerous studies to understand how effective vitamin C is in either preventing these infections or alleviating their symptoms.
Our findings reveal that vitamin C supplementation can reduce the risk of RTIs, with a reported risk ratio of 0.96. This means that taking vitamin C may lower the chance of getting an RTI compared to not taking it at all.
Additionally, we observed that vitamin C can help shorten the duration of symptoms by approximately 9%, making recovery from a potential influenza infection a bit quicker. Interestingly, the benefits of vitamin C seemed to be more pronounced among men and in populations from middle-income countries, compared to women and those in higher-income areas.
While the results are promising, it’s essential to note that vitamin C alone might not be a complete solution for preventing influenza. More research is necessary to fully understand its effectiveness, particularly in light of other emerging viruses and health challenges.
Although the price is steep, this high-quality vitamin C, sourced naturally, is very effective during influenza and colds.
Read More
9
Enhanced effectiveness
The powerful vitamin C from Herb, combined with zinc, enhances its effectiveness against influenza, as it’s composed of completely natural materials.
Read More
7.5
Strengthens immunity
Vitamin C is fantastic, especially for influenza symptoms and boosting immunity.
Read More
7.5
Protects mucous membranes
I purchased this to protect my mucous membranes and manage my health as influenza season approaches. Its high-quality ingredients drew me to this supplement.
Read More
7.5
Gentle on digestion
7 people found this helpful
I believe vitamin C from raw organic foods is superior to ascorbic acid. It’s gentle on the digestive system and helps combat influenza effectively. Despite containing live enzymes, its potency is lower than sodium ascorbate form.
Influenza, commonly referred to as the flu, is a highly contagious viral infection that primarily affects the respiratory system. Caused by influenza viruses, it can lead to mild to severe illness and can result in hospitalization or even death, particularly in vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, and individuals with certain health conditions. Symptoms typically include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, body aches, headaches, and fatigue. It's important to note that while many people refer to common colds as the flu, the flu is generally more severe and lasts longer.
Preventing influenza is possible through vaccination, which is recommended annually as the viruses can change from year to year. Other preventive measures include practicing good hygiene, such as regular hand washing and avoiding close contact with infected individuals. If someone does contract the flu, antiviral medications may be prescribed by a healthcare provider, particularly if the treatment begins within the first few days of illness. Understanding the nature of influenza and the importance of preventive measures can help individuals protect themselves and their communities during flu season.
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 for its immune-boosting properties, and while it may play a role in supporting overall immune function, its specific effectiveness against influenza remains a topic of debate among researchers. Studies suggest that Vitamin C can help reduce the duration and severity of colds, which are caused by viruses similar to the flu. However, clinical evidence directly linking Vitamin C supplementation to a decrease in flu symptoms or prevention is limited. It's important to note that while taking Vitamin C may be beneficial in maintaining a healthy immune system, it's not a guaranteed remedy for influenza.
If you're considering Vitamin C as part of your flu prevention or treatment plan, it's best to approach it as a supplement to, rather than a replacement for, traditional medical treatments like vaccination and antiviral medications. A well-rounded diet rich in fruits and vegetables, along with adequate hydration and rest, will further support your immune system during flu season. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have health concerns or are on medication.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported positive effects of vitamin C in fighting off influenza symptoms, but the time frame in which they notice results varies. Some users emphasize that immediate effects on their immunity are felt, likely within days Read Review. Other reviews suggest that it's a reliable supplement that contributes to overall health during the influenza season Read Review, hinting that consistent use may lead to better outcomes over time.
Users commend the supplement's ability to support immunity during colds and flu, often feeling more secure knowing they're using high-quality vitamin C Read Review. However, several reviewers did not specify an exact timeframe for experiencing benefits, leaving it somewhat ambiguous. If you’re looking to utilize this supplement for influenza, it might be beneficial to start taking it at the onset of symptoms and continue through the duration of your illness for the best chance at effectiveness.
The scientific support for the use of vitamin C as a supplement for influenza is mixed and somewhat nuanced. Research has indicated that vitamin C may have a role in reducing the risk of respiratory tract infections (RTIs) like influenza. One systematic review found that vitamin C supplementation could reduce the risk of RTIs and shorten the duration of symptoms by approximately 9%, suggesting it may provide some benefits in managing influenza symptoms [5]. However, the effectiveness of vitamin C alone remains uncertain, as other studies indicated that while it shows promise, particularly in combination with other treatments, isolating its specific benefits can be challenging due to varied study methodologies [1].
Additionally, while some studies have highlighted a potential protective effect of maintaining healthy levels of vitamin C against mortality from influenza, the overall consensus is that more research is needed to understand its efficacy fully [4]. In animal models, vitamin C has shown to reduce inflammatory responses related to influenza-induced pneumonia, though it doesn't directly eliminate the virus [2]. Overall, while there is some preliminary evidence suggesting that vitamin C may support immune function and symptom management in influenza cases, further studies are required to clarify its role as an effective standalone treatment.
Users report various improvements in their symptoms while using vitamin C supplements during the influenza season. Many individuals highlight the effective role of vitamin C in boosting immunity and managing influenza symptoms, with one user specifically noting it as "fantastic" for this purpose Read Review. Additionally, some reviews suggest that the combination of vitamin C with other natural ingredients, such as zinc, enhances its effectiveness against influenza, indicating a more robust immune response Read Review.
Moreover, several users appreciate the quality and natural sourcing of the vitamin C, implying that these factors contribute significantly to their positive experiences Read Review. Overall, while individual results can vary, many users express satisfaction with their improved resilience against colds and flu, often citing the supplement as a reliable addition to their health regimen during the influenza season Read Review.
Users report that combining vitamin C with other supplements, particularly zinc, significantly enhances its effectiveness in managing influenza symptoms and boosting overall immunity. One user specifically highlights that the combination creates a more robust immune response, making it a powerful ally against influenza Read Review. This sentiment is echoed by multiple reviews, indicating a preference for high-quality, natural sources of vitamin C, which users believe are more effective when tackling illnesses like influenza Read Review.
Additionally, some users express a belief in the superiority of natural forms of vitamin C, derived from raw organic foods, which they claim is more gentle on the digestive system and still effective against influenza Read Review. Overall, many reviewers affirm that the thoughtful combination of vitamin C with other immune-supporting nutrients leads to a more effective approach in handling influenza symptoms, making it a valuable addition to their health regimen during the flu season Read Review.
Users report that Vitamin C is effective in managing influenza symptoms and boosting immunity, although specific dosage recommendations are not clearly outlined in the reviews. Many users emphasize the importance of high-quality ingredients and natural sources, suggesting that forms like raw organic foods may be more beneficial than synthetic options such as ascorbic acid Read Review. Reviewers also mention combining Vitamin C with other supplements, such as zinc, to enhance its effectiveness against influenza Read Review.
7.5
Strengthens immunity
Vitamin C is fantastic, especially for influenza symptoms and boosting immunity.
7.5
Protects mucous membranes
I purchased this to protect my mucous membranes and manage my health as influenza season approaches. Its high-quality ingredients drew me to this supplement.
6
Safe choice
A good quality supplement during influenza season; it feels like a safe choice.
9
Enhanced effectiveness
The powerful vitamin C from Herb, combined with zinc, enhances its effectiveness against influenza, as it’s composed of completely natural materials.
9
Natural source
Although the price is steep, this high-quality vitamin C, sourced naturally, is very effective during influenza and colds.
7.5
Gentle on digestion
7 people found this helpful
I believe vitamin C from raw organic foods is superior to ascorbic acid. It’s gentle on the digestive system and helps combat influenza effectively. Despite containing live enzymes, its potency is lower than sodium ascorbate form.
7
Vitamin C's impact on RTIs
Effect of micronutrient supplements on influenza and other respiratory tract infections among adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
We systematically reviewed how vitamin C affects respiratory tract infections (RTIs), including influenza. This involved analyzing results from numerous studies to understand how effective vitamin C is in either preventing these infections or alleviating their symptoms.
Our findings reveal that vitamin C supplementation can reduce the risk of RTIs, with a reported risk ratio of 0.96. This means that taking vitamin C may lower the chance of getting an RTI compared to not taking it at all.
Additionally, we observed that vitamin C can help shorten the duration of symptoms by approximately 9%, making recovery from a potential influenza infection a bit quicker. Interestingly, the benefits of vitamin C seemed to be more pronounced among men and in populations from middle-income countries, compared to women and those in higher-income areas.
While the results are promising, it’s essential to note that vitamin C alone might not be a complete solution for preventing influenza. More research is necessary to fully understand its effectiveness, particularly in light of other emerging viruses and health challenges.
7
Vitamin C's unclear influenza impact
The Role of Some Vitamins in Respiratory-related Viral Infections: A Narrative Review.
We explored the relationship between vitamin C and influenza, delving into various studies conducted from 2000 to June 2021. In our analysis of the research, we found eleven studies that specifically examined the effects of vitamin C on influenza.
While some of these studies reported positive outcomes, we should note that the isolated benefits of vitamin C can be hard to determine. This is primarily because some studies included additional treatments, making it difficult to draw definitive conclusions about vitamin C alone.
Overall, we observed that while there is some interest and preliminary evidence regarding the efficacy of vitamin C in preventing or treating influenza, its stand-alone effectiveness remains somewhat unclear.
Continued research should help clarify how much vitamin C can truly contribute to combating influenza.
7
Vitamin C impacts respiratory mortality
Serum antioxidant status and mortality from influenza and pneumonia in US adults.
We examined how serum levels of vitamin C could influence mortality rates from influenza and pneumonia. The study analyzed data from 7,428 participants aged 45 and older, utilizing information from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES-III).
Through our research, we discovered that vitamin C, along with other antioxidants like carotenoids, showed a nonlinear relationship with mortality from these respiratory illnesses. Specifically, those in the third quartile of serum vitamin C displayed a lower risk of dying from influenza or pneumonia compared to those in the lowest quartile, with a hazard ratio of 0.38.
This implies that having a moderately high level of vitamin C may help reduce the risk of mortality from these diseases. However, the protective effect seemed to weaken for those in the highest quartile of vitamin C, suggesting a more complex relationship.
Overall, this study highlights the potential benefits of maintaining healthy levels of vitamin C in the blood, indicating that antioxidant intake may positively influence mortality risk among adults facing influenza or pneumonia. Nevertheless, more research is needed in diverse populations to confirm these findings and explore their implications further.
7
Vitamin treatment showed mixed results
[Effect and mechanism of acupoint injection on influenza A virus induced pneumonia in mice].
We investigated how an acupoint injection containing vitamin C and B complex affected pneumonia triggered by the influenza A virus in mice. In our study, we used 60 male mice that were divided into six groups to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment. One group received the vitamin solution through acupoint injections, while others received it through different methods, including intraperitoneally and at non-target points.
Our findings indicated that the acupoint injections helped reduce inflammatory responses and oxidative stress in the lung tissue of the mice. We observed improvements in survival rates and longer survival times, despite no significant impact on the viral load in the lungs. This suggests that while vitamin injections can offer some protective benefits, they do not eliminate the virus itself.
Overall, while we found some positive effects of using the V+VCo solution, the results highlight the complexity of treating viral infections like influenza. It seems that vitamin C, combined with other vitamins, can be beneficial for managing symptoms, but it doesn't directly attack the virus.
References
Park JH, Lee Y, Choi M, Park E. The Role of Some Vitamins in Respiratory-related Viral Infections: A Narrative Review. Clin Nutr Res. 2023;12:77. 10.7762/cnr.2023.12.1.77
Liu MJ, Han ZY, Wang HW, Yu CL, Xu XL, et al. [Effect and mechanism of acupoint injection on influenza A virus induced pneumonia in mice]. Zhongguo Zhen Jiu. 2022;42:1017. 10.13703/j.0255-2930.20210713-k0002
Fahmy SA, Mahdy NK, Al Mulla H, ElMeshad AN, Issa MY, et al. PLGA/PEG Nanoparticles Loaded with Cyclodextrin- Alkaloid Complex and Ascorbic Acid with Promising Antimicrobial Activities. Pharmaceutics. 2022;14. 10.3390/pharmaceutics14010142
Kang H, Hu H, Park SK. Serum antioxidant status and mortality from influenza and pneumonia in US adults. Public Health Nutr. 2022;25:1. 10.1017/S1368980022000027
Abioye AI, Bromage S, Fawzi W. Effect of micronutrient supplements on influenza and other respiratory tract infections among adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Glob Health. 2021;6. 10.1136/bmjgh-2020-003176
Márquez-Domínguez L, Reyes-Leyva J, Herrera-Camacho I, Santos-López G, Scior T. Five Novel Non-Sialic Acid-Like Scaffolds Inhibit In Vitro H1N1 and H5N2 Neuraminidase Activity of Influenza a Virus. Molecules. 2020;25. 10.3390/molecules25184248