We explored the effects of vitamin C on the common cold and pneumonia by examining a range of studies. Interestingly, research on animals suggests that vitamin C may have protective effects against infections. However, when it comes to preventing colds in the general population, taking more than 1 gram of vitamin C per day didn’t show significant benefits.
But there's a twist! Participants engaged in heavy physical activities saw their cold incidence reduced by half with vitamin C supplementation. Additionally, regular intake of 1 gram or more daily was linked to a 15% decrease in cold severity. While some therapeutic trials showed inconsistent results when vitamin C was taken after cold symptoms appeared, two studies did indicate that larger doses (6-8 grams per day) could effectively shorten the duration of colds compared to lower doses.
Our investigation also looked into pneumonia, but the studies were conducted in unique settings, such as a boarding school and military recruits. This makes it hard to generalize the findings to the wider population. Yet, some trials suggested benefits for pneumonia patients. Finally, the role of vitamin C in treating COVID-19 and sepsis remains unclear, with mixed results.
Given that vitamin C seems to alleviate symptoms and shorten the duration of colds, while being safe and affordable, it might be worth considering a dose of 6-8 grams per day to see if it helps at an individual level.
Read More
9
Vitamin C improves cold tolerance
Application of Exogenous Ascorbic Acid Enhances Cold Tolerance in Tomato Seedlings through Molecular and Physiological Responses.
We explored the effects of ascorbic acid, commonly known as vitamin C, on cold tolerance in tomato seedlings. In our study, we discovered that applying vitamin C significantly boosts the seedlings' ability to handle cold stress.
By enhancing the antioxidant defense system, vitamin C treatment increased the enzyme activity in the seedlings' leaves. Additionally, it raised levels of important compounds such as proline, sugar, and abscisic acid, all of which play crucial roles in plant stress responses.
Our observations showed that vitamin C also protects the photosynthesis system of tomato seedlings. This implies that it helps maintain chlorophyll function, which is critical for the plant's overall health, especially under cold conditions.
Moreover, we found that vitamin C treatments led to increased expression of genes linked to antioxidant enzymes and cold response mechanisms. Overall, our findings suggest that exogenous vitamin C is a beneficial approach to improve cold tolerance in tomatoes and may provide helpful insights for farmers looking to cultivate hardier varieties during colder months.
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Most Useful Reviews
9
Effective against cold
196 people found this helpful
In the season of colds, I take one daily. I forgot about the cold and, interestingly, herpes has also disappeared. The only downside is that the tablets are quite large and hard to swallow. I split them and drink them.
Read More
9
No more colds
32 people found this helpful
I'm sold on Ester C for two reasons: myself and my dog. I've taken Ester-C for 15 years and have had no colds or sore throats since. My Bichon, previously prone to bladder issues, also benefits from it. There have been no bloody urine incidents since she started on Ester-C. The vet notes she still has crystals, but I'm grateful there’s no blood.
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10
Immediate relief from cold
14 people found this helpful
ASSISTANT IN THE FIRST SIGNS OF A COLD! This Vitamin C works 100%. As soon as I sense I'm about to get ill, I take two tablets immediately. The discomfort disappears as if by magic!
We explored the effects of ascorbic acid, commonly known as vitamin C, on cold tolerance in tomato seedlings. In our study, we discovered that applying vitamin C significantly boosts the seedlings' ability to handle cold stress.
By enhancing the antioxidant defense system, vitamin C treatment increased the enzyme activity in the seedlings' leaves. Additionally, it raised levels of important compounds such as proline, sugar, and abscisic acid, all of which play crucial roles in plant stress responses.
Our observations showed that vitamin C also protects the photosynthesis system of tomato seedlings. This implies that it helps maintain chlorophyll function, which is critical for the plant's overall health, especially under cold conditions.
Moreover, we found that vitamin C treatments led to increased expression of genes linked to antioxidant enzymes and cold response mechanisms. Overall, our findings suggest that exogenous vitamin C is a beneficial approach to improve cold tolerance in tomatoes and may provide helpful insights for farmers looking to cultivate hardier varieties during colder months.
We explored the effects of vitamin C on the common cold and pneumonia by examining a range of studies. Interestingly, research on animals suggests that vitamin C may have protective effects against infections. However, when it comes to preventing colds in the general population, taking more than 1 gram of vitamin C per day didn’t show significant benefits.
But there's a twist! Participants engaged in heavy physical activities saw their cold incidence reduced by half with vitamin C supplementation. Additionally, regular intake of 1 gram or more daily was linked to a 15% decrease in cold severity. While some therapeutic trials showed inconsistent results when vitamin C was taken after cold symptoms appeared, two studies did indicate that larger doses (6-8 grams per day) could effectively shorten the duration of colds compared to lower doses.
Our investigation also looked into pneumonia, but the studies were conducted in unique settings, such as a boarding school and military recruits. This makes it hard to generalize the findings to the wider population. Yet, some trials suggested benefits for pneumonia patients. Finally, the role of vitamin C in treating COVID-19 and sepsis remains unclear, with mixed results.
Given that vitamin C seems to alleviate symptoms and shorten the duration of colds, while being safe and affordable, it might be worth considering a dose of 6-8 grams per day to see if it helps at an individual level.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 352 Reviews
8.1
All Reviews
Positive Reviews
Negative Reviews
9
Effective against cold
196 people found this helpful
In the season of colds, I take one daily. I forgot about the cold and, interestingly, herpes has also disappeared. The only downside is that the tablets are quite large and hard to swallow. I split them and drink them.
Read More
9
No more colds
32 people found this helpful
I'm sold on Ester C for two reasons: myself and my dog. I've taken Ester-C for 15 years and have had no colds or sore throats since. My Bichon, previously prone to bladder issues, also benefits from it. There have been no bloody urine incidents since she started on Ester-C. The vet notes she still has crystals, but I'm grateful there’s no blood.
Read More
10
Immediate relief from cold
14 people found this helpful
ASSISTANT IN THE FIRST SIGNS OF A COLD! This Vitamin C works 100%. As soon as I sense I'm about to get ill, I take two tablets immediately. The discomfort disappears as if by magic!
Read More
9
Combat cold effectively
9 people found this helpful
Huge benefit to health! I take two pieces daily and have completely rid myself of catarrhal illnesses. Despite struggling with colds for nearly 60 years, I strongly recommend everyone try it.
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9
Convenient to take
7 people found this helpful
The best! Definitely to take! This has been a lifesaver during the cold season; it's so convenient to drink just once a day. I always take it.
Cold is a term that refers to a state of low temperature, often associated with a perceptibly chilly environment or the sensation of being cool to the touch. Scientifically, cold is relative to the presence and movement of heat, which is a measure of energy within matter. In everyday terms, we experience cold through weather changes, such as during winter months, and it can also be described in the context of specific temperature ranges – for example, temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius) generally signify freezing conditions, which can impact outdoor activities, personal comfort, and various ecological systems.
Moreover, the sensation of cold is not solely dependent on temperature; factors like humidity and wind chill can enhance the feeling of coldness. When discussing cold in terms of human health, prolonged exposure to cold conditions can lead to hypothermia or frostbite if body heat is not effectively maintained. Hence, it's crucial to dress appropriately and take necessary precautions during colder months to prevent adverse effects. Understanding the concept of cold can help individuals better prepare for seasonal changes and ensure their comfort and safety.
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 potential remedy for the common cold, but the evidence regarding its effectiveness is mixed. Several studies suggest that while vitamin C does not necessarily prevent colds, it may reduce the severity and duration of symptoms if taken at the onset of illness or during periods of high stress. For instance, a review published in the Cochrane Database indicated that regular intake of vitamin C might shorten the duration of colds by about a day, especially in individuals under physical stress, like athletes.
It's important to note that while vitamin C can be beneficial, it should not be viewed as a cure-all. Maintaining a balanced diet with adequate vitamin C through fruits and vegetables, such as citrus fruits, strawberries, and bell peppers, is recommended for overall immune support. If you are considering taking vitamin C supplements specifically to combat cold symptoms, consulting with a healthcare professional is advised to determine the appropriate dosage and to ensure that it aligns with your health needs.
Based on user reviews, many individuals report seeing results within a day or two after starting the supplement at the first signs of a cold. For instance, one user mentions that they felt all symptoms alleviated or gone by the next day after taking the capsules as soon as they sensed they were becoming unwell Read Review. Similarly, another user highlights feeling revitalized within an hour or two of taking a capsule at the onset of a cold Read Review.
Conversely, some users suggest that regular intake over several days may provide a cumulative effect, which proves beneficial in managing cold symptoms Read Review. It’s common among reviewers to start treatment as soon as cold symptoms appear, and the supplement reportedly expedites recovery, making it a staple in the medicine cabinet for many families Read Review. Overall, users generally advocate for prompt administration for effective results.
Based on the research available, vitamin C supplementation does show some promise in alleviating symptoms and potentially reducing the duration of the common cold. A study found that while taking over 1 gram of vitamin C per day did not prevent colds for the general population, participants engaged in heavy physical activities experienced a significant reduction in cold incidence—by about half. Moreover, regular intake of 1 gram or more daily was associated with a 15% decrease in the severity of colds. Interestingly, therapeutic trials indicate that larger doses, between 6 to 8 grams per day, could effectively shorten the duration of colds compared to lower doses [1].
However, the effectiveness of vitamin C as a preventive measure against respiratory infections remains mixed. While its role in addressing cold symptoms appears supportive, studies involving larger groups specifically examining everyday populations are limited, which complicates definitive conclusions. Therefore, for those considering vitamin C to combat colds, it may be useful to explore higher dosages of 6-8 grams per day, keeping in mind that individual responses may vary [1].
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported significant improvements in their cold symptoms after taking vitamin C supplements. A majority of users note that they experience alleviation of discomfort almost immediately upon the onset of cold symptoms; one user illustrated that after taking the supplement, their symptoms vanished by the next day Read Review. Others have claimed feeling revitalized within just a few hours of intake, underscoring the supplement's perceived rapid effectiveness when administered at the first signs of an illness Read Review.
Many users emphasize the efficacy of consistent use, stating that daily consumption has not only helped them stave off colds but also improve overall health Read Review. One user noted that after three months of regular intake, they felt immensely supported against colds, highlighting the supplement as a staple in their routine Read Review. It's important to remember that while these accounts present a positive trend, individual results can vary. Some may find different degrees of effectiveness based on their personal health and usage patterns.
Users report positive experiences when combining this vitamin C supplement with other supplements to manage colds. One user mentions a regimen where they take vitamin C alongside D3K2 and zinc, noting they feel fine the very next day after starting this combination at the first signs of a cold Read Review. Additionally, another user shares that they regularly consume collagen along with their vitamin C, indicating a holistic approach to their cold management Read Review.
Many reviewers emphasize the effectiveness of high doses during critical periods, with one individual highlighting a strategy of taking 3-5 doses daily when feeling unwell, which they found particularly beneficial in alleviating symptoms Read Review. Overall, users seem to advocate for a tailored approach, combining vitamin C with other nutrients to maximize their immune support and minimize cold symptoms.
According to research, the optimal dose of Vitamin C for treating the common cold varies based on individual circumstances, but recent studies suggest that a dose of 6-8 grams per day may be particularly effective. While daily supplementation of 1 gram or more has been linked to a 15% decrease in cold severity, it is in unique circumstances—such as heavy physical activity—where those taking Vitamin C experienced a significant reduction in cold incidence. Notably, larger doses (6-8 grams daily) were found to shorten the duration of colds compared to lower doses [1].
This information highlights that while general recommendations for Vitamin C supplementation might suggest lower doses, individuals who suffer from frequent colds or rigorous physical stressors could see greater benefits from higher doses. Although the wide-ranging benefits of Vitamin C remain a hot topic in many studies, its potential to alleviate symptoms and reduce cold duration makes a case for a trial approach with doses on the higher end, especially for those particularly affected by colds [1].
10
Rapid symptom relief
1 people found this helpful
These vitamins yield excellent results. They help with colds and the initial stages of respiratory illnesses. A few times, when I felt the onset of being unwell with a sore throat and runny nose, I immediately took these capsules. Remarkably, by the next day, all my symptoms were either alleviated or gone. My family and I regularly take them in autumn, and I've also bought them for my mother, who appreciates their effectiveness.
9
Boosts strength quickly
1 people found this helpful
Excellent vitamin C! I take a capsule, and within an hour or two, I feel revitalised. At the slightest hint of a cold, it proves to be irreplaceable. Highly recommend!
10
Effective against cold
Really working vitamin! I really felt the effect of taking vitamin C. It's the second jar, from ester-c, meaning there's no heartburn, so I take it daily. At 1000 mg, it's just the daily norm. I forgot about the cold. When I feel ill coming on, I take 5-6 tablets, and the cold disappears. Therefore, I confidently affirm that this is the best formula.
7.5
Recover quickly
3 people found this helpful
Solgar's quality is stable. All their supplements are reliable. If taken daily, it helps manage your health, especially when taken at the onset of a cold, allowing for a speedy recovery. One tablet daily suffices, but for severe colds, 2-3 tablets daily will alleviate the symptoms. This is a product every medicine cabinet should have.
9
Combat cold effectively
9 people found this helpful
Huge benefit to health! I take two pieces daily and have completely rid myself of catarrhal illnesses. Despite struggling with colds for nearly 60 years, I strongly recommend everyone try it.
9
Colds preventive support
4 people found this helpful
Vitamins so as not to hurt! I love these vitamins! With low immunity, I often catch colds. I started taking them in the spring during the cold season, and they helped immensely. After three months, I've ordered two jars to begin again in August to prevent illness in September/October. Wishing all good health and beauty!
9
Cucumber recovery
1 people found this helpful
This vitamin is essential in my medicine cabinet. At the first signs of a cold, I take vitamin C, D3K2, and zinc; I feel perfectly fine the very next day.
7.5
Cold relief for family
1 people found this helpful
I absolutely love this brand. The dosage is good, and the tablets are intact. I’ve taken it multiple times, and it helps my whole family with colds. I also combine it with collagen.
10
Emergency cold aid
4 people found this helpful
Verified brand! I truly respect this manufacturer. For emergencies, I take this Esther at the first signs of a cold or malaise, consuming it 3 to 5 times a day for five days with a 1000 mg dosage. Neither my family nor I have experienced any stomach issues. Wishing everyone good health!
We explored the effects of vitamin C on the common cold and pneumonia by examining a range of studies. Interestingly, research on animals suggests that vitamin C may have protective effects against infections. However, when it comes to preventing colds in the general population, taking more than 1 gram of vitamin C per day didn’t show significant benefits.
But there's a twist! Participants engaged in heavy physical activities saw their cold incidence reduced by half with vitamin C supplementation. Additionally, regular intake of 1 gram or more daily was linked to a 15% decrease in cold severity. While some therapeutic trials showed inconsistent results when vitamin C was taken after cold symptoms appeared, two studies did indicate that larger doses (6-8 grams per day) could effectively shorten the duration of colds compared to lower doses.
Our investigation also looked into pneumonia, but the studies were conducted in unique settings, such as a boarding school and military recruits. This makes it hard to generalize the findings to the wider population. Yet, some trials suggested benefits for pneumonia patients. Finally, the role of vitamin C in treating COVID-19 and sepsis remains unclear, with mixed results.
Given that vitamin C seems to alleviate symptoms and shorten the duration of colds, while being safe and affordable, it might be worth considering a dose of 6-8 grams per day to see if it helps at an individual level.
References
Hemilä H, Chalker E. Vitamin C for the common cold and pneumonia. Pol Arch Intern Med. 2025;135. 10.20452/pamw.16926
Wang X, Ran C, Fu Y, Han L, Yang X, et al. Application of Exogenous Ascorbic Acid Enhances Cold Tolerance in Tomato Seedlings through Molecular and Physiological Responses. Int J Mol Sci. 2024;25. 10.3390/ijms251810093