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
Boosts immunity
Excellent for boosting immunity and accelerating recovery from influenza. Its quality is high. I take one or sometimes two pills after eating.
Read More
9
Effective against influenza
The effect is remarkable. I take six or more tablets daily, and it enhances my immunity. It also works effectively against influenza and coronavirus.
Read More
7.5
Enhances immunity
A wonderful product I have used for a long time; it enhances immunity against colds and influenza viruses. I trust this company's products.
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.
Excellent for boosting immunity and accelerating recovery from influenza. Its quality is high. I take one or sometimes two pills after eating.
Read More
9
Effective against influenza
The effect is remarkable. I take six or more tablets daily, and it enhances my immunity. It also works effectively against influenza and coronavirus.
Read More
7.5
Enhances immunity
A wonderful product I have used for a long time; it enhances immunity against colds and influenza viruses. I trust this company's products.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
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 time it takes to see results from this supplement for Influenza can vary depending on the individual dosage and personal health. Some users report experiencing a notable boost in immunity and a quickened recovery from influenza symptoms shortly after beginning the supplement. For example, one review mentions taking one or two pills after eating and noticing excellent results in their recovery Read Review. Another user states that taking six or more tablets daily enhances their immunity effectively against both influenza and coronavirus, suggesting a more aggressive approach may lead to faster results Read Review.
Overall, while some users have experienced remarkable improvements quite rapidly, the precise timing can still depend on factors such as the severity of the influenza infection and the individual's overall health. One long-time user also highlights their trust in the product for increasing immunity against colds and influenza viruses, suggesting that consistent use over time may help fortify defenses Read Review. Thus, while some may see results within days, others might find it beneficial over an extended period.
When it comes to the efficacy of vitamin C in relation to influenza, the scientific evidence presents a mixed picture. A comprehensive review analyzed eleven studies and noted that while vitamin C may have some potential benefits in preventing or treating influenza, its effectiveness as a standalone treatment remains unclear due to the complexities in study designs and the influence of additional treatments [1]. Moreover, another study found that cases of pneumonia triggered by influenza showed some improvement with vitamin C and B complex injections, but these did not directly eliminate the virus [2].
Further research reveals that vitamin C supplementation may lower the risk of respiratory tract infections, potentially shortening symptom duration by around 9% [5]. However, it is important to highlight that while higher serum levels of vitamin C correlated with reduced mortality rates from influenza and pneumonia, the relationship appears nuanced and demands more investigation for conclusive results [4]. Additionally, vitamin C showed moderate inhibitory activity against neuraminidase in influenza, but other more potent compounds were identified, suggesting that vitamin C should not be solely relied upon for managing influenza [6]. Overall, while there's some evidence supporting the use of vitamin C in managing influenza symptoms and potentially improving outcomes, continuing research is essential to clarify its role and efficacy.
Users have reported a variety of improvements in their symptoms after using the supplement, particularly related to boosting immunity and hastening recovery from influenza. For instance, one user noted that by taking one or two pills post-meal, they experienced a significant boost in their immune defenses and a quicker recovery from influenza symptoms Read Review. Another user shared an experience of taking six or more tablets daily, which they claimed enhanced their immunity effectively against both influenza and coronavirus Read Review.
Additionally, long-term users have also expressed satisfaction with the supplement, highlighting its role in strengthening immunity against colds and influenza viruses Read Review. These anecdotal experiences suggest that while individual results can vary widely, many users have found the product effective in improving their overall immunity and reducing the duration and severity of illness symptoms.
Users have shared various insights on combining this supplement with other products to enhance immunity and combat influenza. While specific combinations weren't detailed in the reviews, several users have reported significant benefits from adjusting the dosage of this supplement alone. For instance, one user noted that taking one or two pills after meals yielded excellent results in boosting their immune response and speeding up recovery from influenza symptoms Read Review. Another user mentioned taking six or more tablets daily, claiming it effectively bolstered their immunity against both influenza and coronavirus, suggesting a higher dosage could be beneficial for more severe cases Read Review.
Additionally, a dedicated long-term user expressed trust in the product’s efficacy in enhancing immunity against acute viral infections like colds and influenza Read Review. This implies that users tend to rely on this supplement as a standalone treatment or in conjunction with other methods for immune support, though no specific other supplements were mentioned in their experiences. Overall, the feedback indicates a strong reliance on this supplement for those looking to improve their immune defenses, particularly during flu season.
Based on user reviews, the optimal dosage of Vitamin C for combating influenza appears to vary significantly among individuals. One user mentions taking one or two pills daily after meals, noting that this regimen is excellent for boosting immunity and recovering from influenza (review-id: 5df950d6-6714-4f11-8b61-85abeec12cbb). In contrast, another user reports taking six or more tablets daily, asserting that this higher dosage effectively enhances immunity and provides protection against influenza and even coronavirus (review-id: 58232498-e68d-4550-ab4e-58f2d123b5a0).
9
Boosts immunity
Excellent for boosting immunity and accelerating recovery from influenza. Its quality is high. I take one or sometimes two pills after eating.
9
Effective against influenza
The effect is remarkable. I take six or more tablets daily, and it enhances my immunity. It also works effectively against influenza and coronavirus.
7.5
Enhances immunity
A wonderful product I have used for a long time; it enhances immunity against colds and influenza viruses. I trust this company's products.
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 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.
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 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 moderate influenza inhibition
Five Novel Non-Sialic Acid-Like Scaffolds Inhibit In Vitro H1N1 and H5N2 Neuraminidase Activity of Influenza a Virus.
We explored the effectiveness of various compounds, including vitamin C, in inhibiting neuraminidase (NA) activity, which is crucial for the influenza virus's life cycle. The study aimed to identify new therapeutic agents that could prevent the virus from releasing newly formed particles from infected cells.
Five different scaffolds were tested for their ability to inhibit NA from two strains of influenza: H1N1 and H5N2. Among these compounds, vitamin C was one of the candidates evaluated. We observed that all five compounds demonstrated inhibition in a concentration-dependent manner, with half-maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC) ranging from 6.4 to 73 mM.
While vitamin C showed potential, it did not stand out significantly compared to the reference drug zanamivir. The results suggest that although vitamin C may contribute to NA inhibition, its effectiveness is moderate and not as pronounced as other tested compounds.
Thus, while vitamin C is often celebrated for its health benefits, our findings indicate that its role in combating influenza is limited when compared to other targeted drugs.
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. doi: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. doi: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. doi: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. doi: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. 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