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
7.5
Strengthens body
18 people found this helpful
Solgar is consistently excellent. This vitamin C is in a highly digestible form, which is important for our stomachs. Drinking it during influenza epidemics strengthens the body and is effective when combined with Lysine and zinc to combat herpes.
Read More
7.5
No influenza
1 people found this helpful
It is vitamin C that my family, parents, and brothers order and consume together. It's good value for money, and I have been using it for years. Since taking it, I seem to be doing well each year without any influenza or viral infections.
Read More
9
Highly recommended
Vitamin C is highly recommended! It works perfectly for influenza and is beneficial all year round!
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.
Solgar is consistently excellent. This vitamin C is in a highly digestible form, which is important for our stomachs. Drinking it during influenza epidemics strengthens the body and is effective when combined with Lysine and zinc to combat herpes.
Read More
7.5
No influenza
1 people found this helpful
It is vitamin C that my family, parents, and brothers order and consume together. It's good value for money, and I have been using it for years. Since taking it, I seem to be doing well each year without any influenza or viral infections.
Read More
9
Highly recommended
Vitamin C is highly recommended! It works perfectly for influenza and is beneficial all year round!
Read More
9
Immunity booster
Amazing! I have purchased it for the fifth time. This specific type (Ester C) is exceptional at boosting immunity and combating influenza.
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 taking this vitamin C supplement for influenza can vary. Many users report feeling a noticeable improvement in their overall health and a reduction in the frequency of viral infections, including influenza, within a few weeks of consistent use. For instance, one review highlights how the user has consistently avoided influenza during the years they have been taking the supplement, suggesting a cumulative effect over time Read Review. Another review notes that it works perfectly for combating influenza, but does not specify a timeframe Read Review.
Users are particularly impressed with the formulation that is designed to enhance digestion and absorption, which might contribute to quicker results Read Review. For those looking for an effective immune boost against influenza, many have found consistent usage combined with other supplements beneficial, while others emphasized that results may depend on individual health conditions and other factors. Overall, it appears that many users notice positive effects within a few weeks of regular use.
Vitamin C has garnered attention for its potential role in managing influenza, although scientific findings present a mixed picture. A review of multiple studies indicates that while there is preliminary evidence suggesting vitamin C may reduce the risk of respiratory tract infections, including influenza, its overall effectiveness remains uncertain. Specifically, vitamin C supplementation may lower the risk of these infections (risk ratio of 0.96) and could potentially shorten the duration of symptoms by around 9% [5]. However, the isolated benefits of vitamin C are complicated by the presence of other treatments in many studies, making it challenging to conclude its effectiveness definitively [1].
Moreover, other research highlights vitamin C's potential in specific formulations or combinations rather than as a standalone treatment. For instance, laboratory studies found that vitamin C contributed to the antiviral effects of nanoparticle formulations against the H1N1 virus, although its impact when isolated was modest compared to other compounds [3]. Overall, while maintaining adequate levels of vitamin C might be beneficial, its role in directly combating influenza is somewhat limited and further research is warranted to clarify its efficacy [4]. Therefore, while vitamin C shows promise, it's essential to approach its use with realistic expectations about its effectiveness against influenza.
Users report a range of improvements in symptoms related to influenza and overall health after using this vitamin C supplement. Many have highlighted that they experience fewer viral infections and a stronger immune response during flu seasons. For instance, one long-term user noted that their family has consistently avoided influenza since they started taking the supplement, suggesting its effectiveness as a preventative measure Read Review. Similarly, another reviewer praised the formulation for its ability to boost immunity, specifically mentioning its exceptional effectiveness in combating influenza Read Review.
Additionally, users appreciate the supplement’s highly digestible form, which they believe contributes to its efficacy, especially when taken in combination with other nutrients like Lysine and zinc Read Review. While individual results can vary significantly based on personal health conditions and lifestyle factors, many find that regular consumption leads to noticeable benefits in their overall health and resilience against seasonal illnesses.
Users often report positive outcomes when combining this vitamin C supplement with other nutrients, particularly Lysine and zinc, to enhance their immune response against influenza. One review highlights the supplement's highly digestible form, noting that this aspect is crucial for increasing effectiveness, especially during influenza epidemics Read Review. Many users believe that this combination not only boosts the body's defenses but also fortifies overall health, contributing to fewer instances of viral infections Read Review.
In addition, several reviewers praise the supplementation's exceptional effectiveness in combating influenza specifically, suggesting that stacking it with other supplements amplifies its immune-boosting properties Read Review. Overall, it appears that for many users, incorporating this vitamin C supplement into their routine alongside other supportive nutrients leads to enhanced resilience against colds and the flu.
Based on user reviews, vitamin C is widely recognized for its effectiveness in treating influenza and boosting overall immunity. Many users emphasize the importance of selecting a well-absorbed form of vitamin C, such as Ester C, which reportedly enhances immune function and offers better digestibility Read Review. Users like those from previous years shared that they have experienced fewer viral infections, hinting at the preventive benefits of consistent supplementation during flu seasons Read Review.
While specific dosages are not detailed in the reviews, users generally agree that vitamin C should be consumed regularly to strengthen the body's defenses against influenza. One user mentioned that combining vitamin C with other supplements, such as Lysine and zinc, could provide added benefits in combating illnesses Read Review. Overall, the consensus among users suggests that vitamin C, particularly in a highly absorbable form, can be a valuable addition to one’s wellness regimen during influenza seasons and throughout the year Read Review.
7.5
No influenza
1 people found this helpful
It is vitamin C that my family, parents, and brothers order and consume together. It's good value for money, and I have been using it for years. Since taking it, I seem to be doing well each year without any influenza or viral infections.
9
Highly recommended
Vitamin C is highly recommended! It works perfectly for influenza and is beneficial all year round!
7.5
Strengthens body
18 people found this helpful
Solgar is consistently excellent. This vitamin C is in a highly digestible form, which is important for our stomachs. Drinking it during influenza epidemics strengthens the body and is effective when combined with Lysine and zinc to combat herpes.
9
Immunity booster
Amazing! I have purchased it for the fifth time. This specific type (Ester C) is exceptional at boosting immunity and combating influenza.
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'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.
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