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
Enhanced immunity
2 people found this helpful
Great help not only for colds and influenza! I recall my mother always giving us sour yellow vitamins for colds, which I cherished. Many know that vitamin C is effective against influenza and colds, and few realise it also combats allergies! For prevention and treatment of influenza, I take one capsule (1000 mg) morning and evening for the first two days. This truly hits viruses hard! When cold season arrives, everyone in my household takes one capsule daily. As a result of this preventative measure, we've fallen ill much less frequently, and if we do catch something, our colds are milder and pass quicker. As someone with severe allergies, I take 1000 mg of this vitamin daily, and during spring-autumn, I don’t experience any allergy symptoms. I don’t get colds at all. Highly recommend it! Stay healthy and happy!
Read More
9
Effective against illness
1 people found this helpful
During an influenza epidemic, this product is beneficial to prevent illness. At the first sign of symptoms, I consume between 3000-4000 mg daily.
Read More
7.5
Vitamin C essential
37 people found this helpful
I am astonished that the benefits of Vitamin C are not more widely publicised. After a severe cold last summer, I now supplement with it daily, especially since it may halve the duration of illnesses like influenza. The NOW product meets my expectations perfectly.
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.
Great help not only for colds and influenza! I recall my mother always giving us sour yellow vitamins for colds, which I cherished. Many know that vitamin C is effective against influenza and colds, and few realise it also combats allergies! For prevention and treatment of influenza, I take one capsule (1000 mg) morning and evening for the first two days. This truly hits viruses hard! When cold season arrives, everyone in my household takes one capsule daily. As a result of this preventative measure, we've fallen ill much less frequently, and if we do catch something, our colds are milder and pass quicker. As someone with severe allergies, I take 1000 mg of this vitamin daily, and during spring-autumn, I don’t experience any allergy symptoms. I don’t get colds at all. Highly recommend it! Stay healthy and happy!
Read More
9
Effective against illness
1 people found this helpful
During an influenza epidemic, this product is beneficial to prevent illness. At the first sign of symptoms, I consume between 3000-4000 mg daily.
Read More
7.5
Vitamin C essential
37 people found this helpful
I am astonished that the benefits of Vitamin C are not more widely publicised. After a severe cold last summer, I now supplement with it daily, especially since it may halve the duration of illnesses like influenza. The NOW product meets my expectations perfectly.
Read More
9
Increased resistance
1 people found this helpful
Gorgeous for treating influenza and colds. It elevates the body’s resistance and can improve immune function, which I found particularly effective.
Read More
9
Health enhancement
1 people found this helpful
Excellent for reinforcing immunity against influenza; a wonderful and beneficial addition to health.
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, the timeline for seeing results from this vitamin C supplement varies, but many users report relatively quick benefits. One reviewer mentions that they take the supplement at the first sign of influenza symptoms, consuming between 3000-4000 mg daily, suggesting that they aim for immediate impact during an illness outbreak Read Review. Another notes that regular intake can noticeably elevate the body's resistance and improve immune function, indicating benefits might start to be felt shortly after consistent use Read Review.
Additionally, several users emphasize long-term daily use leads to reduced frequency and severity of cold and influenza symptoms, implying that while immediate effects may be observed, consistent supplementation is recommended for sustained immunity enhancement Read Review. Typically, users find that taking the supplement regularly during cold season decreases their illness occurrences, aligning the results closely with the timing of flu season Read Review.
Research regarding vitamin C and its role in influenza presents a mixed picture. A review of eleven studies revealed some potential benefits of vitamin C for preventing or managing influenza, but the isolated effects were often difficult to determine due to the involvement of other treatments in these studies [1]. Another study suggested that vitamin C, alongside alkaloids, could have a selective antiviral effect against the H1N1 virus, although the exact impact of vitamin C alone remained unclear since the formulation included multiple active ingredients [3].
Moreover, some studies indicated that vitamin C may play a supportive role in reducing mortality associated with influenza. For instance, higher serum levels of vitamin C were linked to reduced mortality risk from influenza and pneumonia [4]. Similarly, vitamin C supplementation showed promise in lowering the risk of respiratory infections, including influenza, and helped reduce symptom duration [5]. However, it’s essential to note that while there are indicators suggesting vitamin C could be beneficial, more robust studies are necessary to fully elucidate its direct effects and to understand how it can effectively contribute to influenza treatment and prevention.
Based on user reviews, many individuals report significant improvements in their symptoms related to colds, influenza, and even allergies after using this vitamin C supplement. For instance, one user noted that by taking 1000 mg daily, their family experienced fewer illnesses and milder symptoms when they did catch something during cold season Read Review. Additionally, another reviewer mentioned that daily intake led to a remarkable reduction in the frequency of colds, stating they might only get sick once or twice a year Read Review.
Moreover, several users emphasized the immunity-boosting properties of vitamin C, with one mentioning it helped them maintain brighter skin alongside its immunity benefits Read Review. Overall, while individual results may vary, users consistently highlight a noticeable enhancement in their health, particularly during peak cold and flu seasons. This suggests that regular supplementation may support overall vitality and resilience Read Review.
Users report that combining this vitamin C supplement with other products can enhance its efficacy in preventing and managing influenza. One reviewer noted that they took this vitamin C alongside N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and found it effective in avoiding infection during a high-risk season, demonstrating a potential synergistic effect Read Review. Additionally, many users mention adjusting their vitamin C intake based on their symptoms; one user reported consuming between 3000-4000 mg at the first sign of symptoms for a more immediate response Read Review.
While some users recommend taking vitamin C alone, others find noticeable benefits when used in conjunction with preventive measures like regular exercise and healthy eating Read Review. Consistent daily intake was emphasized, with users reporting a significant reduction in cold and influenza symptoms when adhering to this practice Read Review. Overall, users advise that combining this supplement with other health strategies can further bolster the immune response during flu season, illustrating a comprehensive approach to health management.
Based on user reviews, recommendations for the right dose of Vitamin C for treating influenza vary considerably, but many users appear to advocate for higher doses during illness. One reviewer notes taking between 3000-4000 mg daily at the first sign of symptoms, asserting that this high intake is beneficial during an influenza epidemic Read Review. Another user relayed their experience of taking 1000 mg twice a day for the first two days of illness, suggesting that such dosing effectively combats viruses Read Review.
For preventative measures, some users found success with a daily intake of 1000 mg, which they claimed significantly reduced the frequency and severity of cold and influenza symptoms throughout the year Read Review. Others support taking one pill daily during peak influenza periods for enhanced immunity Read Review. Overall, the suggested doses highlight a consensus around higher intake during active symptoms while promoting a consistent daily regimen for preventing cold and influenza symptoms.
9
Effective against illness
1 people found this helpful
During an influenza epidemic, this product is beneficial to prevent illness. At the first sign of symptoms, I consume between 3000-4000 mg daily.
9
Increased resistance
1 people found this helpful
Gorgeous for treating influenza and colds. It elevates the body’s resistance and can improve immune function, which I found particularly effective.
6
Daily use
During peak influenza periods, I take one pill daily to boost my immunity, and I’ve experienced good results.
9
Enhanced immunity
2 people found this helpful
Great help not only for colds and influenza! I recall my mother always giving us sour yellow vitamins for colds, which I cherished. Many know that vitamin C is effective against influenza and colds, and few realise it also combats allergies! For prevention and treatment of influenza, I take one capsule (1000 mg) morning and evening for the first two days. This truly hits viruses hard! When cold season arrives, everyone in my household takes one capsule daily. As a result of this preventative measure, we've fallen ill much less frequently, and if we do catch something, our colds are milder and pass quicker. As someone with severe allergies, I take 1000 mg of this vitamin daily, and during spring-autumn, I don’t experience any allergy symptoms. I don’t get colds at all. Highly recommend it! Stay healthy and happy!
6
Boosted vitality
1 people found this helpful
Vitamin C is essential for activity, vitality, and immunity. By taking it daily, you’ll notice a significant difference and reduce the frequency of cold and influenza symptoms, possibly to just once or twice a year. The company is reputable for its high-quality products, and I trust everything stated on the box and in the description.
7.5
Infection prevention
2 people found this helpful
With influenza rampant this year and the risk of coronavirus, I’ve taken this product twice a day since autumn began. Alongside NAC, I’ve managed to avoid infection so far, and my skin has become noticeably brighter, losing its dullness.
7
Vital for health
This product is extremely useful for ensuring adequate vitamin C intake, providing robust immunity and resilience against influenza.
9
Health enhancement
1 people found this helpful
Excellent for reinforcing immunity against influenza; a wonderful and beneficial addition to health.
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.
9
Vitamin C supports antiviral activity
PLGA/PEG Nanoparticles Loaded with Cyclodextrin- Alkaloid Complex and Ascorbic Acid with Promising Antimicrobial Activities.
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.
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 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.
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