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
9
Powerful immune support
659 people found this helpful
Vitamin C is indispensable during the cold season, as it enhances the absorption of other medications like iron. It's particularly important for smokers since this vitamin is quickly depleted in their bodies. Additionally, Vitamin C combats premature ageing and acts as a strong antioxidant that neutralises toxins.
Read More
9
Prevention strategy
88 people found this helpful
Taking this vitamin at the first sign of a common cold really helps me avoid getting sick.
Read More
9
Immune boost method
48 people found this helpful
As Vitamin C is not well metabolised above 500 mg normally, during a common cold I take up to 1g at once, boosting my immune response to viruses. I drink it with ant tree bark at the first signs of illness, usually three times a day for three days, which prevents the cold from developing.
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.
Vitamin C is indispensable during the cold season, as it enhances the absorption of other medications like iron. It's particularly important for smokers since this vitamin is quickly depleted in their bodies. Additionally, Vitamin C combats premature ageing and acts as a strong antioxidant that neutralises toxins.
Read More
9
Prevention strategy
88 people found this helpful
Taking this vitamin at the first sign of a common cold really helps me avoid getting sick.
Read More
9
Immune boost method
48 people found this helpful
As Vitamin C is not well metabolised above 500 mg normally, during a common cold I take up to 1g at once, boosting my immune response to viruses. I drink it with ant tree bark at the first signs of illness, usually three times a day for three days, which prevents the cold from developing.
Read More
9
Immunity booster
20 people found this helpful
Ester-C is fantastic! I started taking it and felt more energetic, sparking immunity. The dosage is strong; I take it when feeling weak. My husband took it upon feeling a cold, and by the second day, his symptoms were mild, recovering completely after three days.
Read More
9
Natural absorption
15 people found this helpful
Vitamin C is essential for my family during winter colds. It's best to take it in vitamin form, as it's quickly oxidised in natural sources. Ester-C, combined with bioflavonoids, is natural and well-absorbed, much better than any fruit source for treating common colds. It also supports collagen production and strengthens blood vessels.
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.
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 as a remedy for the common cold, but the evidence supporting its efficacy is mixed. Some studies suggest that regular consumption of Vitamin C may reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms, particularly in individuals who engage in intense physical activity or have a deficiency in this vitamin. However, for the average person, taking Vitamin C after the onset of cold symptoms is generally not shown to have a significant impact on shortening the cold.
If you're considering using Vitamin C to fend off colds, incorporating it into your daily routine through fruits and vegetables, such as oranges, strawberries, and bell peppers, can support overall immune function. Supplements might be beneficial for those who struggle to get enough from their diet, but they are not a guaranteed cure. While Vitamin C isn't a magic bullet against the common cold, maintaining adequate levels can contribute to overall health and may help mitigate some symptoms. However, always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimens.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported experiencing positive effects shortly after starting Vitamin C supplements for common colds. For instance, one user noted feeling better after just a few doses taken at the onset of symptoms, while another reported a significant reduction in cold symptoms by the second day of taking the supplement Read Review. Another user highlighted that by taking the vitamin at the first sign of a cold, symptoms had vanished by the next morning Read Review.
Users commonly advocate for taking Vitamin C multiple times daily, especially at the initial signs of illness, leading to faster recovery rates. Many suggest that a regimen spread throughout the day can maximize the effectiveness of the supplement. For instance, one user shared that splitting a 1000 mg dosage helped them alleviate cold symptoms quickly Read Review. Overall, based on these experiences, it appears that users typically see results within one to three days when they start taking Vitamin C promptly at the onset of cold symptoms.
Vitamin C is often hailed as a potential ally against the common cold, with various studies suggesting it might have beneficial effects in managing symptoms. Research indicates that while vitamin C does not significantly prevent colds in the general population, it can reduce the severity of symptoms by about 15% when taken at doses of 1 g or more daily ([1]; [2]). The vitamin appears particularly effective for individuals under physical stress, such as athletes, where higher doses can halve the incidence of colds ([4]). For those already experiencing cold symptoms, studies have shown that starting vitamin C supplementation may shorten the duration of colds, especially at higher doses of around 6-8 g/day, compared to lower dosages ([1]).
However, it’s essential to note that the effectiveness of vitamin C varies based on individual circumstances and there's still some skepticism in the medical community regarding its benefits for treating colds. Some research critiques highlight that while evidence supports vitamin C's ability to alleviate symptoms, this support is often overshadowed by historical biases in medical literature ([3]). Overall, while vitamin C is not a miracle cure for colds, it should be considered as part of a symptom management strategy, especially for those who are more susceptible to colds due to physical stress or who experience severe symptoms.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported notable improvements in symptoms related to cold and immune health after starting Vitamin C supplementation. Several users specifically mentioned that taking Vitamin C at the first signs of illness resulted in immediate relief, with one individual stating that their cold symptoms vanished by the next morning Read Review. Others highlighted a decrease in the duration and severity of cold symptoms, with one user observing that symptoms became mild within a couple of days of starting the supplement Read Review.
Additionally, some users have emphasized the importance of dosage timing, citing that spreading their intake throughout the day leads to better results in preventing and managing cold symptoms Read Review. For instance, another user reported consistently feeling better after taking doses of Vitamin C every hour upon feeling unwell Read Review. Overall, while individual experiences may differ, it appears that early and sufficient intake of Vitamin C significantly aids in recovering from cold symptoms and enhancing overall immunity.
Users report mixed experiences when combining Vitamin C with other supplements for managing the common cold. Many advocate for its use alongside bioflavonoids and zinc, suggesting that this combination can enhance immune response and increase overall effectiveness. One user noted significant improvements when taking Vitamin C alongside bioflavonoids and Omega-3, observing a noticeable reduction in the frequency of colds over time Read Review. Additionally, another reviewer mentioned a fantastic outcome from combining Vitamin C with zinc, crediting this mix for their strong resistance to colds Read Review.
In terms of dosage recommendations, several users suggest a higher intake during cold symptoms, with some taking 1g of Vitamin C multiple times a day in conjunction with other remedies to hasten recovery Read Review. A common theme among users is the emphasis on starting these combinations at the first signs of illness for optimal results. While individual responses vary, the general consensus is that combining Vitamin C with other beneficial supplements can help bolster the immune system and alleviate cold symptoms more effectively Read Review.
The optimal dose of Vitamin C for treating the common cold appears to be around 1 g (1000 mg) per day. Research indicates that this dosage can reduce the severity of cold symptoms by approximately 15% in the general population, while higher doses of 6-8 g daily administered after cold symptoms appear may significantly shorten the duration of illness [1]. For individuals engaged in heavy physical activity, higher doses can halve the incidence of colds, suggesting that this nutrient may offer substantial benefits under stress [1].
It's worth noting that while Vitamin C has shown efficacy in managing cold symptoms and mitigating severity, it does not prevent colds for most people [6]. The evidence suggests that maintaining a daily intake of 1 g, especially for those experiencing more severe symptoms or under physical stress, can be a worthwhile consideration in managing the common cold effectively [2]. However, individual responses may vary, and it remains important to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
9
Immunity booster
20 people found this helpful
Ester-C is fantastic! I started taking it and felt more energetic, sparking immunity. The dosage is strong; I take it when feeling weak. My husband took it upon feeling a cold, and by the second day, his symptoms were mild, recovering completely after three days.
9
Immediate relief
14 people found this helpful
This Vitamin C works perfectly. As soon as I feel a cold coming on, I take two tablets, and by morning, the symptoms have vanished!
9
Cold symptoms relief
3 people found this helpful
I’ve been ordering this vitamin for a year; it’s always effective. I split the 1000 dosage throughout the day, which helps alleviate common cold symptoms quickly.
9
Illness aid
6 people found this helpful
This supplement is my go-to for colds and viral infections. At the first sign of illness, I take 1g every hour with plenty of water, and I consistently feel better after just a few doses. I also use it for daily health.
9
Skin and cold health
4 people found this helpful
I started taking it on my cosmetologist's advice, alongside bioflavonoids and Omega 3. Over a year, my skin improved, and I noticed fewer common colds.
10
No colds
2 people found this helpful
I’ve been taking this form of vitamin C for a year without catching a single common cold. Combining it with zinc has been fantastic.
9
Immune boost method
48 people found this helpful
As Vitamin C is not well metabolised above 500 mg normally, during a common cold I take up to 1g at once, boosting my immune response to viruses. I drink it with ant tree bark at the first signs of illness, usually three times a day for three days, which prevents the cold from developing.
9
Powerful complex
6 people found this helpful
During the pandemic, this supplement gained immense popularity. I advise splitting the dosage for better results. This non-acidic form is gentle on the stomach and effectively helps avoid colds while enhancing vitality.
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 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.
5
Vitamin C's varied effects on colds
Potential Role of Vitamins and Zinc on Acute Respiratory Infections Including Covid-19.
We explored the role of Vitamin C in managing common cold symptoms through a review of existing studies. The focus was to understand whether this popular vitamin could help in reducing the incidence of the common cold or its severity.
Our findings revealed that Vitamins C, D, and E did not notably lower the incidence of the common cold in the general population. However, we did discover something interesting: Vitamin C appeared to be beneficial in individuals experiencing physical or environmental stress, reducing the incidence of the cold by half in those specific circumstances.
Moreover, while Vitamin C did not prevent colds, it did play a role in shortening their duration and minimizing the severity of symptoms. On the other hand, large doses of Vitamin A showed no effects on pneumonia recovery, and Zinc had some benefits for children under five, particularly in improving clinical deterioration.
Despite the inconclusive results regarding Vitamin C and overall cold prevention, it seems that taking this vitamin during stressful periods may still offer some advantages. Overall, while the results are mixed, there's potential for Vitamin C to be a helpful component in managing colds for specific groups.
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.
7
Vitamin C may alleviate cold symptoms
Efficacy and safety of vitamin C in the management of acute respiratory infection and disease: A rapid review.
We explored the effects of vitamin C on common cold symptoms, particularly focusing on how it may assist in alleviating those pesky issues that come with viral respiratory infections. The research indicates that taking vitamin C, especially at the onset of symptoms, might help reduce the duration of discomfort, such as fever, chills, and chest pain.
Additionally, we noted that vitamin C could potentially reduce the severity of symptoms related to common cold-induced asthma and might decrease the need for hospital admissions in some cases. While the overall evidence about vitamin C's effectiveness isn’t exhaustive, oral consumption may provide relief for many experiencing early stages of viral infections.
However, we must emphasize that there is currently no strong evidence supporting the use of vitamin C specifically for preventing or treating COVID-19, which shares similar symptoms with typical respiratory infections. Therefore, while vitamin C appears beneficial for common cold symptoms, further high-quality research is essential to validate its efficacy and safety unequivocally.
References
Hemilä H, Chalker E. Vitamin C for the common cold and pneumonia. Pol Arch Intern Med. 2025;135. doi: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. doi: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. doi: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. doi: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. doi: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. doi: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. doi:10.1136/bmjmilitary-2019-001384