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
Increased vitality
3 people found this helpful
Where was he before? When there was so little vitality! This type of green tea is a real lifesaver on cold, dark winter days. I follow the instructions, and my energy has tripled. In terms of price-quality ratio, there is nothing better yet. Prior to this, I tried Eleutherococcus, but the effect wasn’t as evident as with these capsules.
Read More
10
Cold prevention
1 people found this helpful
I take it daily to ward off colds and viruses! Since drinking this, my son in elementary school no longer catches a cold!
Read More
9
Prevented colds
1 people found this helpful
I recommend this primarily for strengthening blood vessels and immunity, as well as for weight loss. I take it as directed, one capsule daily with meals. It slightly invigorates, so it's best to take it in the morning. Since I began taking it in mid-September, I haven't caught a cold, despite others around me falling ill. Aside from some minor blood vessel issues, I have experienced no disadvantages. This sufficient supply lasts for 3.5 months.
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.
Where was he before? When there was so little vitality! This type of green tea is a real lifesaver on cold, dark winter days. I follow the instructions, and my energy has tripled. In terms of price-quality ratio, there is nothing better yet. Prior to this, I tried Eleutherococcus, but the effect wasn’t as evident as with these capsules.
Read More
10
Cold prevention
1 people found this helpful
I take it daily to ward off colds and viruses! Since drinking this, my son in elementary school no longer catches a cold!
Read More
9
Prevented colds
1 people found this helpful
I recommend this primarily for strengthening blood vessels and immunity, as well as for weight loss. I take it as directed, one capsule daily with meals. It slightly invigorates, so it's best to take it in the morning. Since I began taking it in mid-September, I haven't caught a cold, despite others around me falling ill. Aside from some minor blood vessel issues, I have experienced no disadvantages. This sufficient supply lasts for 3.5 months.
Read More
9
Enhanced growth
1 people found this helpful
SUPER ACTION! + Lose Weight !! My love for this product began when a masseuse suggested Green Tea Extract to reduce swelling. Alongside a diet, I lost 5 kg in a month! It provides energy throughout the day, though it's better not to drink in the evening. Green tea is a magic wand when I lack energy. It helps strengthen immunity, especially against colds in the autumn-winter period, and has numerous health benefits.
Read More
7.5
Beneficial during illness
I always consume it during a cold, and it's also beneficial for weight loss, especially combined with htp-5!
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.
Green tea extract is a concentrated form of green tea that typically contains high levels of beneficial compounds known as polyphenols, particularly catechins. These antioxidants are responsible for many of the health benefits associated with green tea, including improved metabolism, enhanced fat burning, and overall supportive effects on cardiovascular health. The extract is often available in capsules or powdered form, making it a popular supplement choice for those looking to harness the plant’s potential without having to drink multiple cups of tea each day.
In addition to its antioxidant properties, green tea extract may support weight management and provide mental clarity due to its caffeine content and L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes a state of calm alertness. As with any supplement, it's important to choose a high-quality product from reputable brands to ensure purity and potency. Users should also consult with a healthcare professional prior to adding green tea extract to their regimen, particularly if they have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
While green tea extract is well-known for its antioxidant properties and potential health benefits, there is currently limited scientific evidence to suggest that it can directly prevent or cure the common cold. Some studies have indicated that the polyphenols found in green tea, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), may have antiviral properties and could help boost the immune system. However, these effects are not guaranteed and should not be relied upon as a sole treatment for colds.
If you're looking to incorporate green tea extract into your wellness routine as a preventive measure during cold season, it may provide some benefits due to its rich content of antioxidant compounds. But remember that staying hydrated, getting enough rest, and maintaining a balanced diet are crucial elements for supporting your immune system. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you are considering it as a remedy for the common cold.
Based on user reviews, those taking this product for cold prevention and immune support often notice results fairly quickly. For instance, one user mentioned that since they started taking the supplement in mid-September, they haven't caught a cold, even with others around them falling ill Read Review. Another review highlighted that a parent has seen a significant decrease in colds for their child after incorporating the supplement into their routine Read Review.
While individual experiences may vary, several users suggest that benefits can be felt in a relatively short timeframe, often within days or weeks of consistent use. Users describe improvements in energy levels and overall immunity, which may assist in warding off the common cold during vulnerable seasons Read Review. Overall, if taken regularly, it seems users are able to appreciate its effects on their cold resistance quite promptly.
Vitamin C has garnered attention in the realm of managing common cold symptoms, and current scientific research supports its potential benefits. Studies indicate that while vitamin C does not substantially prevent colds in the general population, it can significantly reduce the severity of symptoms and shorten their duration, especially in individuals undergoing physical stress or strenuous activity. For instance, taking 1 gram or more of vitamin C daily may lead to a reduction in cold severity by approximately 15% [2]. Additionally, higher doses of vitamin C (6-8 grams per day) have shown to be effective in shortening cold duration, particularly when administered at the onset of symptoms [1].
Interestingly, research conducted among South Korean soldiers demonstrated that a daily dose of 6,000 mg of vitamin C decreased the risk of developing colds by 20% compared to a placebo group [7]. Such findings suggest that vitamin C can be particularly beneficial in high-stress environments. However, it's important to note that the overall effectiveness varies across different demographics and conditions, and further investigation is warranted to fully understand its role in cold management [3]. Overall, while vitamin C isn’t a guaranteed cure, its potential to alleviate cold symptoms makes it a reasonable consideration for those seeking relief.
Based on user reviews, many individuals report notable improvements in their energy levels and overall resilience against colds after incorporating green tea extract into their daily routine. One user enthusiastically mentioned experiencing a "triple" increase in energy, highlighting how this supplement serves as a "real lifesaver" during cold winter days Read Review. Another parent shared that their child, who previously frequently caught colds, has not fallen ill since they began taking the supplement daily for immune support Read Review.
Furthermore, users report that the product not only strengthens immunity but also aids in weight loss and enhances vitality. For instance, one reviewer expressed delight in losing weight while feeling more energetic throughout the day, particularly appreciating the immune-boosting properties it provides during the autumn and winter months Read Review. Individual results, however, can vary; while many find significant benefit, others emphasize the importance of using the supplement in conjunction with other natural remedies, such as onions, to maximize its effects Read Review. Overall, consistent use appears to yield favorable results for many users.
Based on user reviews, several individuals report positive experiences when combining this green tea supplement with other natural remedies for managing the common cold. One user mentioned that they always consume the supplement during a cold, specifically highlighting its benefits for weight loss when taken alongside htp-5 Read Review. Another user has found success in reducing their cold frequency by pairing the supplement with onion, noting that this combination has led to rarely getting colds in recent years Read Review.
In a similar vein, another reviewer recommended taking the supplement with onion as a strategy to enhance resistance and minimize colds Read Review. While individual experiences will vary, it appears that users are benefiting from combining this green tea extract with onions and other supportive supplements to bolster their immunity against common colds during peak seasons.
Based on user reviews, the right dose for Green Tea Extract in managing the common cold seems to vary slightly, but many users recommend following the standard instruction of taking one capsule daily with meals. For instance, one user emphasized taking it in the morning for its invigorating effects, noting not having caught a cold since starting the regimen in mid-September, despite others around them falling ill (Read Review). Another user uses it daily as a preventive measure against colds, particularly benefiting their child who has not caught a cold since their regular intake (Read Review).
Moreover, some users combined Green Tea Extract with other ingredients, such as onion, to further enhance resistance to colds and minimize their occurrence (Read Review). Overall, while the standard dosing of one capsule daily appears effective according to the reviews, some users advocate for additional strategies to bolster immunity. This suggests a flexible approach where individual experiences may influence the frequency and context of use.
9
Prevented colds
1 people found this helpful
I recommend this primarily for strengthening blood vessels and immunity, as well as for weight loss. I take it as directed, one capsule daily with meals. It slightly invigorates, so it's best to take it in the morning. Since I began taking it in mid-September, I haven't caught a cold, despite others around me falling ill. Aside from some minor blood vessel issues, I have experienced no disadvantages. This sufficient supply lasts for 3.5 months.
10
Cold prevention
1 people found this helpful
I take it daily to ward off colds and viruses! Since drinking this, my son in elementary school no longer catches a cold!
9
Enhanced growth
1 people found this helpful
SUPER ACTION! + Lose Weight !! My love for this product began when a masseuse suggested Green Tea Extract to reduce swelling. Alongside a diet, I lost 5 kg in a month! It provides energy throughout the day, though it's better not to drink in the evening. Green tea is a magic wand when I lack energy. It helps strengthen immunity, especially against colds in the autumn-winter period, and has numerous health benefits.
7.5
Increased vitality
3 people found this helpful
Where was he before? When there was so little vitality! This type of green tea is a real lifesaver on cold, dark winter days. I follow the instructions, and my energy has tripled. In terms of price-quality ratio, there is nothing better yet. Prior to this, I tried Eleutherococcus, but the effect wasn’t as evident as with these capsules.
7.5
Reduced cold frequency
After eating it with onion for many years, I rarely get colds nowadays.
7.5
Beneficial during illness
I always consume it during a cold, and it's also beneficial for weight loss, especially combined with htp-5!
7.5
Increased resistance
Take it with onion to enhance resistance and minimise colds.
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.
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 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.
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.
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