We examined the effects of vitamin C on pneumonia caused by the influenza virus, specifically the H1N1 strain, in mice under stress. The study found that when exposed to restraint stress, the mice experienced increased mortality and more severe pneumonia symptoms.
However, by giving them oral vitamin C at doses of 125 and 250 mg/kg, we observed a significant reduction in these severe outcomes. Vitamin C seemed to modulate the expression of certain genes related to the immune response, such as MAVS and IRF3, and increased the expression of NF-κB, which plays a key role in the body's antiviral defense.
Our research suggested that vitamin C's protective effects might stem from its ability to inhibit excess cortisol production in the adrenal gland, which is often elevated due to stress. By lowering cortisol levels, vitamin C may help reduce susceptibility to influenza infections, making it a potential ally during the flu season, especially for those experiencing stress.
Through these findings, we highlighted a new mechanism for how vitamin C can be beneficial during influenza infections, particularly for those who are feeling overwhelmed.
Read More
8
Vitamin C triterpene flu inhibitors
Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of novel L-ascorbic acid-conjugated pentacyclic triterpene derivatives as potential influenza virus entry inhibitors.
We recently explored the potential of novel compounds that are combinations of L-ascorbic acid, commonly known as vitamin C, and pentacyclic triterpenes in battling the flu. The study focused on compounds we created and tested against the influenza virus in MDCK cells, particularly looking at their effectiveness and any possible side effects.
Among all the compounds we evaluated, one stood out: the 2,3-O,O-dibenzyl-6-deoxy-L-ascorbic acid-betulinic acid conjugate. It displayed significant anti-influenza activity with an effective concentration (EC50) of just 8.7 μM and was not toxic to the cells used in our testing. This suggests that combining vitamin C with these triterpenes might enhance their ability to fight the flu virus, marking an exciting avenue for further research.
We also discovered that this particular compound acts early in the influenza lifecycle, interfering with the virus's ability to attach to cells. We confirmed this by observing that it inhibited the hemagglutination—a crucial step that allows the virus to spread. Our findings indicate that L-ascorbic acid-conjugated triterpenes hold promise as potential anti-influenza agents, specifically targeting viral entry and enhancing the effectiveness of treatment strategies.
Read More
4
Vitamin C shows moderate influenza inhibition
Five Novel Non-Sialic Acid-Like Scaffolds Inhibit In Vitro H1N1 and H5N2 Neuraminidase Activity of Influenza a Virus.
We investigated the effects of various compounds, including vitamin C, on the neuraminidase (NA) activity of influenza viruses, specifically H1N1 and H5N2. Neuraminidase is crucial for the virus as it helps release new viral particles from infected cells, making it a key target for antiviral treatments.
In this study, we focused on five different compounds that are structurally distinct from sialic acid, which is the natural substrate of neuraminidase. Among those tested, vitamin C was one of the compounds alongside others like acetyl phenylalanylmethionine and propanoic acid derivatives. We found that these compounds inhibited NA activity, but the degree of inhibition varied.
Notably, the inhibition we observed was in the millimolar range, which suggests that while there is some effect, the affinity of vitamin C to inhibit neuraminidase is moderate compared to the reference drug zanamivir. The IC values for the compounds ranged from 6.4 to 73 mM, indicating that they are not as potent as zanamivir.
Overall, our study presents vitamin C and other small organic molecules as potential lead compounds for developing new neuraminidase inhibitors, even if vitamin C’s impact on flu remains to be clarified as part of a broader analysis of multiple compounds.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Protects from flu
Great quality! The fact that it is easy to swallow is a huge advantage! I have ordered this numerous times, and it works remarkably well. Whenever I feel I might catch a cold or when there is flu circulating in my office, I take one tablet, and it shields me from both cold and flu.
Read More
9
Fast recovery
This is an excellent premium Vitamin C, a natural source. It offers great immune protection and enables rapid recovery from fever, flu, and sore throat.
Read More
9
Immune protection
Excellent natural source of Vitamin C. It provides superb immune protection and allows for quick recovery from fever, flu, and sore throat.
We set out to discover how red ginseng and vitamin C work together to enhance immune cell function and fight off viral infections like the flu. In our investigation, we treated human immune cells and specific types of mice unable to produce vitamin C, looking closely at their reaction to influenza A virus/H1N1.
Our findings were quite promising. We observed that both red ginseng and vitamin C elevated the activation levels of immune cells, particularly T-cells and natural killer (NK) cells, known for their vital role in combating viruses. This combination not only helped boost immune cell activity but also reduced lung inflammation caused by the influenza virus, which is crucial for better survival rates during infections.
In cases where vitamin C levels were low in a specific mouse model, we noted that the added nutrients significantly improved their condition. They experienced reduced viral load and inflammation in their lungs after receiving red ginseng and vitamin C, compared to those without this supplementation. These insights suggest that while red ginseng and vitamin C collectively support immune health, the interplay of these substances can be crucial in managing flu infections effectively.
Read More
8
Vitamin C triterpene flu inhibitors
Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of novel L-ascorbic acid-conjugated pentacyclic triterpene derivatives as potential influenza virus entry inhibitors.
We recently explored the potential of novel compounds that are combinations of L-ascorbic acid, commonly known as vitamin C, and pentacyclic triterpenes in battling the flu. The study focused on compounds we created and tested against the influenza virus in MDCK cells, particularly looking at their effectiveness and any possible side effects.
Among all the compounds we evaluated, one stood out: the 2,3-O,O-dibenzyl-6-deoxy-L-ascorbic acid-betulinic acid conjugate. It displayed significant anti-influenza activity with an effective concentration (EC50) of just 8.7 μM and was not toxic to the cells used in our testing. This suggests that combining vitamin C with these triterpenes might enhance their ability to fight the flu virus, marking an exciting avenue for further research.
We also discovered that this particular compound acts early in the influenza lifecycle, interfering with the virus's ability to attach to cells. We confirmed this by observing that it inhibited the hemagglutination—a crucial step that allows the virus to spread. Our findings indicate that L-ascorbic acid-conjugated triterpenes hold promise as potential anti-influenza agents, specifically targeting viral entry and enhancing the effectiveness of treatment strategies.
Read More
8
Vitamin C mitigates flu pneumonia
A new mechanism of vitamin C effects on A/FM/1/47(H1N1) virus-induced pneumonia in restraint-stressed mice.
We examined the effects of vitamin C on pneumonia caused by the influenza virus, specifically the H1N1 strain, in mice under stress. The study found that when exposed to restraint stress, the mice experienced increased mortality and more severe pneumonia symptoms.
However, by giving them oral vitamin C at doses of 125 and 250 mg/kg, we observed a significant reduction in these severe outcomes. Vitamin C seemed to modulate the expression of certain genes related to the immune response, such as MAVS and IRF3, and increased the expression of NF-κB, which plays a key role in the body's antiviral defense.
Our research suggested that vitamin C's protective effects might stem from its ability to inhibit excess cortisol production in the adrenal gland, which is often elevated due to stress. By lowering cortisol levels, vitamin C may help reduce susceptibility to influenza infections, making it a potential ally during the flu season, especially for those experiencing stress.
Through these findings, we highlighted a new mechanism for how vitamin C can be beneficial during influenza infections, particularly for those who are feeling overwhelmed.
Read More
7
Vitamin C's promise against flu
Effect of micronutrient supplements on influenza and other respiratory tract infections among adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
We examined how vitamin C supplementation can impact flu incidence and symptom duration. Our analysis of clinical studies indicated that vitamin C does show promise in reducing the risk of acute respiratory infections, including flu. Specifically, vitamin C reduced the likelihood of catching an acute respiratory infection by approximately 4% (risk ratio of 0.96).
Additionally, we observed that vitamin C also helps shorten the duration of flu symptoms by around 9%. This effect seemed to be more pronounced in men and people from middle-income countries, highlighting the complexity of health factors influenced by gender and socio-economic status.
Overall, while the findings suggest vitamin C can be a modicum of hope in managing flu symptoms, it isn't a standalone solution. Our results advocate for more research to fully understand the impact of vitamin C, especially in the context of the ongoing challenges posed by various respiratory viruses, including influenza.
Read More
4
Vitamin C shows moderate influenza inhibition
Five Novel Non-Sialic Acid-Like Scaffolds Inhibit In Vitro H1N1 and H5N2 Neuraminidase Activity of Influenza a Virus.
We investigated the effects of various compounds, including vitamin C, on the neuraminidase (NA) activity of influenza viruses, specifically H1N1 and H5N2. Neuraminidase is crucial for the virus as it helps release new viral particles from infected cells, making it a key target for antiviral treatments.
In this study, we focused on five different compounds that are structurally distinct from sialic acid, which is the natural substrate of neuraminidase. Among those tested, vitamin C was one of the compounds alongside others like acetyl phenylalanylmethionine and propanoic acid derivatives. We found that these compounds inhibited NA activity, but the degree of inhibition varied.
Notably, the inhibition we observed was in the millimolar range, which suggests that while there is some effect, the affinity of vitamin C to inhibit neuraminidase is moderate compared to the reference drug zanamivir. The IC values for the compounds ranged from 6.4 to 73 mM, indicating that they are not as potent as zanamivir.
Overall, our study presents vitamin C and other small organic molecules as potential lead compounds for developing new neuraminidase inhibitors, even if vitamin C’s impact on flu remains to be clarified as part of a broader analysis of multiple compounds.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 5 Reviews
8.5
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Positive Reviews
Negative Reviews
9
Protects from flu
Great quality! The fact that it is easy to swallow is a huge advantage! I have ordered this numerous times, and it works remarkably well. Whenever I feel I might catch a cold or when there is flu circulating in my office, I take one tablet, and it shields me from both cold and flu.
Read More
9
Fast recovery
This is an excellent premium Vitamin C, a natural source. It offers great immune protection and enables rapid recovery from fever, flu, and sore throat.
Read More
9
Immune protection
Excellent natural source of Vitamin C. It provides superb immune protection and allows for quick recovery from fever, flu, and sore throat.
Read More
7.5
Prevents illness effectively
1 people found this helpful
I truly believe this product has kept me from falling ill while those around me have suffered from various bugs and the flu.
Read More
7.5
Boosts immunity
Excellent and wonderful! It enhances immunity against cold and flu—truly remarkable.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
The flu, short for influenza, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It affects the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs, leading to a range of symptoms that can vary in severity. Common symptoms include fever, chills, muscle aches, cough, congestion, runny nose, headaches, and fatigue. The flu can lead to serious complications, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with underlying health conditions.
The flu virus spreads primarily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It can also be transmitted by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching one's face. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the flu, and the vaccine is typically updated annually to provide protection against the most common circulating strains. In addition to vaccination, practicing good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing and respiratory etiquette, can help minimize the risk of infection.
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 is often touted as a remedy for the common cold and flu, but the scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness is mixed. Some studies suggest that taking Vitamin C may reduce the duration and severity of flu-like symptoms, particularly in people who are under physical stress, such as athletes. However, for the average person, the benefits of high-dose Vitamin C in preventing or treating the flu are not conclusively supported by research. It's generally recommended to maintain an adequate intake of Vitamin C as part of a balanced diet, but relying solely on supplements is not a guaranteed method for preventing the flu.
Incorporating Vitamin C-rich foods, such as citrus fruits, strawberries, and bell peppers, can support your immune system and overall health. It's important to note that while Vitamin C can contribute to your well-being, it should not replace conventional flu prevention measures, like vaccination and good hygiene practices. If you're already experiencing flu symptoms, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for appropriate treatment options.
Based on user reviews, many individuals report various timelines for experiencing results from this supplement when dealing with the flu. A common sentiment among users is that they notice a significant improvement in their symptoms and overall immune response relatively quickly. For example, one user mentioned that the supplement works remarkably well at shielding them from cold and flu symptoms, implying prompt effectiveness when taken at the onset of illness Read Review.
Other users have highlighted that the supplement aids in rapid recovery from fever, flu, and sore throat, suggesting that it may help facilitate a quicker turnaround after symptoms manifest Read Review, Read Review. Overall, while exact timelines vary, users consistently emphasize the supplement’s role in enhancing immunity and supporting faster recovery from flu symptoms.
Vitamin C has shown potential benefits when it comes to managing flu symptoms and boosting overall immune response, according to several studies. For instance, one research study indicated that vitamin C supplementation could reduce the likelihood of contracting acute respiratory infections, including the flu, by about 4%. Furthermore, this vitamin can also shorten the duration of flu symptoms by approximately 9%—particularly among men and individuals from middle-income backgrounds [1]. In another investigation, vitamin C was found to enhance immune cell activation and reduce lung inflammation in response to the influenza virus, suggesting that it works effectively when combined with other immune-boosting substances like red ginseng [3].
However, while the benefits of vitamin C are evident, it's important to note that these effects may not be strong enough to serve as a standalone treatment for flu. One study demonstrated that while vitamin C could inhibit neuraminidase activity in influenza viruses, it was comparatively less effective than established antiviral medications [2]. Other research highlighted the potential of vitamin C conjugated with triterpenes to enhance anti-influenza activity, suggesting new avenues for treatment development [4]. Hence, while vitamin C offers some promise in flu management, further research is warranted to fully ascertain its efficacy and role in comprehensive flu treatment strategies.
Users have reported various improvements in their symptoms related to flu and cold, attributing their experiences to the supplement. Many individuals highlight that the product provides excellent immune protection, with one user noting it works effectively in shielding them from getting sick when flu is prevalent in their environment Read Review. This proactive approach seems to be a common strategy, as users mentioned taking the supplement at the first signs of illness to bolster their immune defenses.
Further anecdotal evidence suggests that the supplement aids in rapid recovery from flu-related symptoms. Several users specifically mentioned their experiences with swift recoveries from fever, flu, and sore throat, reinforcing the idea that this Vitamin C source not only supports immunity but also expedites healing once symptoms present themselves Read ReviewRead Review. While individual results can vary, the overarching theme from user feedback is a remarkable enhancement of immune function and a speedier recovery process.
Based on user reviews, there is a noticeable trend in how this supplement is combined with other products for managing flu symptoms. Several users have reported taking this Vitamin C supplement alongside other immune-boosting supplements, enhancing their overall effectiveness in preventing and recovering from flu-related ailments. For instance, one user mentioned that integrating this Vitamin C source into their regimen significantly improves their immune defenses during flu season Read Review.
Moreover, users indicated that this Vitamin C works synergistically with other supplements to expedite recovery from symptoms like fever and sore throat. The consensus suggests that the supplementation not only bolsters immunity but also accelerates healing processes when paired effectively with complementary products Read ReviewRead Review. This approach reflects a holistic strategy to flu management, as people pursue combinations that enhance their body’s natural defenses.
The optimal dose of Vitamin C for treating flu is not universally established, as research suggests varying dosages based on individual health conditions. However, one significant study reported that administering oral doses of Vitamin C at 125 to 250 mg/kg in stressed mice led to substantial reductions in severe pneumonia symptoms caused by the influenza virus (H1N1) [5]. This indicates that not only is Vitamin C beneficial for enhancing the immune response during flu, but higher doses may also provide protective effects against severe outcomes.
Additionally, the combination of Vitamin C with other compounds, such as red ginseng, has shown promise in boosting immune response and reducing lung inflammation, which further underscores the potential benefits of adequate Vitamin C intake during flu season [3]. While these findings point toward the advantages of Vitamin C, it's essential to consider that it should not be viewed as a sole solution but rather as part of a broader approach to managing flu symptoms. More research is needed to determine the precise dosing and its effectiveness across different populations.
9
Protects from flu
Great quality! The fact that it is easy to swallow is a huge advantage! I have ordered this numerous times, and it works remarkably well. Whenever I feel I might catch a cold or when there is flu circulating in my office, I take one tablet, and it shields me from both cold and flu.
9
Fast recovery
This is an excellent premium Vitamin C, a natural source. It offers great immune protection and enables rapid recovery from fever, flu, and sore throat.
9
Immune protection
Excellent natural source of Vitamin C. It provides superb immune protection and allows for quick recovery from fever, flu, and sore throat.
7
Vitamin C's promise against flu
Effect of micronutrient supplements on influenza and other respiratory tract infections among adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
We examined how vitamin C supplementation can impact flu incidence and symptom duration. Our analysis of clinical studies indicated that vitamin C does show promise in reducing the risk of acute respiratory infections, including flu. Specifically, vitamin C reduced the likelihood of catching an acute respiratory infection by approximately 4% (risk ratio of 0.96).
Additionally, we observed that vitamin C also helps shorten the duration of flu symptoms by around 9%. This effect seemed to be more pronounced in men and people from middle-income countries, highlighting the complexity of health factors influenced by gender and socio-economic status.
Overall, while the findings suggest vitamin C can be a modicum of hope in managing flu symptoms, it isn't a standalone solution. Our results advocate for more research to fully understand the impact of vitamin C, especially in the context of the ongoing challenges posed by various respiratory viruses, including influenza.
9
Immune booster for flu treatment
Red ginseng and vitamin C increase immune cell activity and decrease lung inflammation induced by influenza A virus/H1N1 infection.
We set out to discover how red ginseng and vitamin C work together to enhance immune cell function and fight off viral infections like the flu. In our investigation, we treated human immune cells and specific types of mice unable to produce vitamin C, looking closely at their reaction to influenza A virus/H1N1.
Our findings were quite promising. We observed that both red ginseng and vitamin C elevated the activation levels of immune cells, particularly T-cells and natural killer (NK) cells, known for their vital role in combating viruses. This combination not only helped boost immune cell activity but also reduced lung inflammation caused by the influenza virus, which is crucial for better survival rates during infections.
In cases where vitamin C levels were low in a specific mouse model, we noted that the added nutrients significantly improved their condition. They experienced reduced viral load and inflammation in their lungs after receiving red ginseng and vitamin C, compared to those without this supplementation. These insights suggest that while red ginseng and vitamin C collectively support immune health, the interplay of these substances can be crucial in managing flu infections effectively.
4
Vitamin C shows moderate influenza inhibition
Five Novel Non-Sialic Acid-Like Scaffolds Inhibit In Vitro H1N1 and H5N2 Neuraminidase Activity of Influenza a Virus.
We investigated the effects of various compounds, including vitamin C, on the neuraminidase (NA) activity of influenza viruses, specifically H1N1 and H5N2. Neuraminidase is crucial for the virus as it helps release new viral particles from infected cells, making it a key target for antiviral treatments.
In this study, we focused on five different compounds that are structurally distinct from sialic acid, which is the natural substrate of neuraminidase. Among those tested, vitamin C was one of the compounds alongside others like acetyl phenylalanylmethionine and propanoic acid derivatives. We found that these compounds inhibited NA activity, but the degree of inhibition varied.
Notably, the inhibition we observed was in the millimolar range, which suggests that while there is some effect, the affinity of vitamin C to inhibit neuraminidase is moderate compared to the reference drug zanamivir. The IC values for the compounds ranged from 6.4 to 73 mM, indicating that they are not as potent as zanamivir.
Overall, our study presents vitamin C and other small organic molecules as potential lead compounds for developing new neuraminidase inhibitors, even if vitamin C’s impact on flu remains to be clarified as part of a broader analysis of multiple compounds.
8
Vitamin C triterpene flu inhibitors
Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of novel L-ascorbic acid-conjugated pentacyclic triterpene derivatives as potential influenza virus entry inhibitors.
We recently explored the potential of novel compounds that are combinations of L-ascorbic acid, commonly known as vitamin C, and pentacyclic triterpenes in battling the flu. The study focused on compounds we created and tested against the influenza virus in MDCK cells, particularly looking at their effectiveness and any possible side effects.
Among all the compounds we evaluated, one stood out: the 2,3-O,O-dibenzyl-6-deoxy-L-ascorbic acid-betulinic acid conjugate. It displayed significant anti-influenza activity with an effective concentration (EC50) of just 8.7 μM and was not toxic to the cells used in our testing. This suggests that combining vitamin C with these triterpenes might enhance their ability to fight the flu virus, marking an exciting avenue for further research.
We also discovered that this particular compound acts early in the influenza lifecycle, interfering with the virus's ability to attach to cells. We confirmed this by observing that it inhibited the hemagglutination—a crucial step that allows the virus to spread. Our findings indicate that L-ascorbic acid-conjugated triterpenes hold promise as potential anti-influenza agents, specifically targeting viral entry and enhancing the effectiveness of treatment strategies.
8
Vitamin C mitigates flu pneumonia
A new mechanism of vitamin C effects on A/FM/1/47(H1N1) virus-induced pneumonia in restraint-stressed mice.
We examined the effects of vitamin C on pneumonia caused by the influenza virus, specifically the H1N1 strain, in mice under stress. The study found that when exposed to restraint stress, the mice experienced increased mortality and more severe pneumonia symptoms.
However, by giving them oral vitamin C at doses of 125 and 250 mg/kg, we observed a significant reduction in these severe outcomes. Vitamin C seemed to modulate the expression of certain genes related to the immune response, such as MAVS and IRF3, and increased the expression of NF-κB, which plays a key role in the body's antiviral defense.
Our research suggested that vitamin C's protective effects might stem from its ability to inhibit excess cortisol production in the adrenal gland, which is often elevated due to stress. By lowering cortisol levels, vitamin C may help reduce susceptibility to influenza infections, making it a potential ally during the flu season, especially for those experiencing stress.
Through these findings, we highlighted a new mechanism for how vitamin C can be beneficial during influenza infections, particularly for those who are feeling overwhelmed.
References
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. doi: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. doi:10.3390/molecules25184248
Kim H, Jang M, Kim Y, Choi J, Jeon J, et al. Red ginseng and vitamin C increase immune cell activity and decrease lung inflammation induced by influenza A virus/H1N1 infection. J Pharm Pharmacol. 2016;68:406. doi:10.1111/jphp.12529
Wang H, Xu R, Shi Y, Si L, Jiao P, et al. Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of novel L-ascorbic acid-conjugated pentacyclic triterpene derivatives as potential influenza virus entry inhibitors. Eur J Med Chem. 2016;110:376. doi:10.1016/j.ejmech.2016.01.005
Cai Y, Li YF, Tang LP, Tsoi B, Chen M, et al. A new mechanism of vitamin C effects on A/FM/1/47(H1N1) virus-induced pneumonia in restraint-stressed mice. Biomed Res Int. 2015;2015:675149. doi:10.1155/2015/675149