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.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
10
Symptoms disappear
3 people found this helpful
Guard of your health! The first thing I noticed is that at the slightest manifestation of a cold - using 2 tablets a day - all symptoms disappear as if by a magic wand! I love Solgar vitamins; they are quite decent. I consider 500 mg a small dose during a pandemic, so I take 2 tablets daily. I have not noticed any side effects, so I can safely recommend it for use!
Read More
10
Immunity increased
3 people found this helpful
Vitamin C should be in every home. My life has changed since I began taking vitamin C daily. I used to suffer from frequent colds and fatigue. Since I started regular intake, my immunity has improved, and I hardly catch colds now—just a few times, and lightly.
Read More
9
Effective against cold
2 people found this helpful
Vitamin C helps me tackle two issues. I began taking it as a supplement for better absorption. When I felt a cold coming, I took two capsules, and the next day, symptoms vanished as if by magic. I never believed it would work until I tried it myself. It also cleared up my minor acne issues. I plan to continue using the vitamins to bolster my immune system.
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 183 Reviews
8.1
All Reviews
Positive Reviews
Negative Reviews
10
Symptoms disappear
3 people found this helpful
Guard of your health! The first thing I noticed is that at the slightest manifestation of a cold - using 2 tablets a day - all symptoms disappear as if by a magic wand! I love Solgar vitamins; they are quite decent. I consider 500 mg a small dose during a pandemic, so I take 2 tablets daily. I have not noticed any side effects, so I can safely recommend it for use!
Read More
10
Immunity increased
3 people found this helpful
Vitamin C should be in every home. My life has changed since I began taking vitamin C daily. I used to suffer from frequent colds and fatigue. Since I started regular intake, my immunity has improved, and I hardly catch colds now—just a few times, and lightly.
Read More
9
Effective against cold
2 people found this helpful
Vitamin C helps me tackle two issues. I began taking it as a supplement for better absorption. When I felt a cold coming, I took two capsules, and the next day, symptoms vanished as if by magic. I never believed it would work until I tried it myself. It also cleared up my minor acne issues. I plan to continue using the vitamins to bolster my immune system.
Read More
9
Reversed malaise
1 people found this helpful
A great product! Vitamin C works well. I experienced slight malaise, as if a cold was coming, so I took 1000mg. By morning, the symptoms had disappeared. I'm incredibly grateful.
Read More
9
Increased immunity
1 people found this helpful
Super Vitamin C has been part of my routine for nearly a month now. I haven’t fallen ill, especially during this cold season. It’s an excellent product for boosting immunity at a reasonable price. I highly recommend 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, the time it typically takes to see results from taking Vitamin C for colds can vary, but many users report experiencing significant improvements quite rapidly. For instance, several reviewers mention that when they took Vitamin C at the first sign of a cold, they saw their symptoms vanish overnight or by the next day. One user specifically noted that after taking 1000 mg at the onset of symptoms, they felt all signs of the cold dissipate by morning Read Review. Another reviewer echoes this sentiment, stating that taking a capsule every three hours at the onset of a cold resulted in no signs of illness the very next day Read Review.
While some users did not mention immediate results, others suggest a more extended use for long-term immunity benefits. One user reported taking it consistently, which helped them avoid colds altogether during the season Read Review. Overall, several users recommend taking Vitamin C promptly at the onset of cold symptoms for the best chance of seeing quick results.
Scientific research suggests that vitamin C may be beneficial for those suffering from the common cold, although its effectiveness can vary. A comprehensive study indicated that while routine intake of 1 gram or more daily could lead to a 15% decrease in cold severity, significant preventive benefits were not observed in the general population when more than 1 gram was consumed daily. Interestingly, participants who engaged in heavy physical activities experienced their cold incidence reduced by half with supplementation of vitamin C. Furthermore, higher doses ranging from 6 to 8 grams per day have shown promise in shortening the duration of colds compared to lower dosages, making vitamin C a potential ally in managing cold symptoms [1].
Despite its affordability and safety, it's crucial to consider individual response when it comes to vitamin C supplementation for cold relief. The findings imply that while vitamin C may not outright prevent colds in everyone, it could certainly ease symptoms and reduce the time spent feeling unwell. As always, it's a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider before significantly altering any supplementation regimen [1].
Based on user reviews, many individuals report notable improvements in their symptoms and overall health after incorporating Vitamin C into their routines. A variety of users share experiences of their cold symptoms disappearing rapidly after taking Vitamin C at the first sign of illness. For example, one user noted that after taking 1000 mg, they felt all signs of their cold vanish by morning Read Review. Another reviewer experienced similar benefits, finding that symptoms quickly dissipated the day after taking two capsules Read Review. Consistent use has also led to reduced frequency of colds for several users, with one who stated they "hardly catch colds now" after starting regular intake Read Review.
Additionally, users have highlighted improvements in their general well-being, with one person mentioning they have relied on Vitamin C to tackle chronic fatigue and have largely forgotten about colds Read Review. Others indicated a sense of enhanced immunity during cold seasons, attributing their resilience to regular Vitamin C intake Read Review. While individual results can vary, the overall sentiment among users is that Vitamin C supplementation has played a crucial role in mitigating cold symptoms and supporting immune health.
Based on user reviews, many individuals report successfully combining Vitamin C with other supplements to enhance their effectiveness in combating cold symptoms. For instance, some users specifically mention taking Vitamin C alongside iron to improve absorption and overall immune support Read ReviewRead Review. This combination has garnered positive feedback, with users noting quicker recovery times and improved health outcomes during cold seasons. One user highlighted that taking Vitamin C and iron had remarkable effects on alleviating cold symptoms within days Read Review.
Additionally, there are various anecdotal reports of enhanced immunity and reduced cold frequency when Vitamin C is used consistently, sometimes alongside other daily vitamins or dietary supplements Read Review. The community sentiment appears to favor the idea of combining different supplements, as several users recommend integrating Vitamin C into a broader health regimen, particularly during peak cold seasons, to fortify one's defenses against illness Read Review. Overall, users advocate for a multifaceted approach to supplementation for optimal health during cold periods.
According to the research, when it comes to optimizing Vitamin C dosage for treating the common cold, a regular intake of at least 1 gram daily is recommended, especially for individuals engaging in heavy physical activities where a 50% reduction in cold incidence was observed [1]. Interestingly, while typical supplementation doesn’t have a profound effect on the general population, studies have highlighted the potential benefits of higher doses, specifically between 6 to 8 grams per day. These larger doses may not only help alleviate symptoms but can also significantly shorten the duration of colds when taken promptly after symptoms appear.
It's important to note that while Vitamin C is generally safe, self-dosing on such high amounts should be considered carefully. The research suggests that while 1 gram is beneficial for everyday supplementation, those looking to treat a cold may find that upping their intake to the higher range is worth exploring. Given its affordability and safety profile, trying out 6-8 grams daily might provide the relief you’re seeking during those pesky cold spells [1].
9
Reversed malaise
1 people found this helpful
A great product! Vitamin C works well. I experienced slight malaise, as if a cold was coming, so I took 1000mg. By morning, the symptoms had disappeared. I'm incredibly grateful.
10
Prevents cold symptoms
I drink vitamin C from this company regularly, except in summer. It particularly helps when I feel the onset of a cold; I take a capsule every three hours, and the next day there are no signs of a cold.
9
Increased immunity
1 people found this helpful
Super Vitamin C has been part of my routine for nearly a month now. I haven’t fallen ill, especially during this cold season. It’s an excellent product for boosting immunity at a reasonable price. I highly recommend it.
9
Effective against cold
2 people found this helpful
Vitamin C helps me tackle two issues. I began taking it as a supplement for better absorption. When I felt a cold coming, I took two capsules, and the next day, symptoms vanished as if by magic. I never believed it would work until I tried it myself. It also cleared up my minor acne issues. I plan to continue using the vitamins to bolster my immune system.
10
Immunity increased
3 people found this helpful
Vitamin C should be in every home. My life has changed since I began taking vitamin C daily. I used to suffer from frequent colds and fatigue. Since I started regular intake, my immunity has improved, and I hardly catch colds now—just a few times, and lightly.
10
Forgot about colds
I take this vitamin twice a year to prevent respiratory infections and boost immunity. I take one capsule daily after breakfast for a month. The capsules are small and easy to swallow. After using this product, I forgot about colds, and it also helped with chronic fatigue.
9
Effective for cold
Excellent vitamin C. I consume it when I sense I'm becoming unwell. By the second day, the cold tends to dissipate. I also take it with iron for better absorption.
9
Instant support for colds
An effective product from Iherb, it helps instantly with colds. I take it alongside iron.
9
Effective for colds
Great vitamin with antioxidant protection. I took it for my husband with a cold. As prescribed by the doctor, take 1 capsule twice a day. After a week, we noticed results; the cold began to disappear, and his health improved significantly. The quality and effectiveness of the product is remarkable. I have since been giving vitamin C to my family. At the first sign of illness, I ensure we take vitamin C.
9
Family winter essential
An essential vitamin for winter; I ordered it for my large family again. We start taking it in October to adjust our bodies for winter. It's very effective. In summer, some may need to restore weakened immunity—it's better to take it in cold 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.
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