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
Avoid surgery
252 people found this helpful
After taking vitamin C in combination with other vitamins, my test results improved significantly. The doctor indicated that if this progress continues, I may avoid surgery and hormones. My energy levels increased, my health improved, acne diminished, and my allergies nearly disappeared. Additionally, I experienced quicker recovery from common colds.
Read More
9
Prevention against colds
15 people found this helpful
Significantly cheaper than city pharmacies, this product contains 250 vegetarian capsules with 500 mg of vitamin C each. Vitamin C aids collagen synthesis, thereby enhancing skin and vessel health. Since taking it, my husband and I have not suffered from severe illness throughout the winter.
Read More
9
Recommended remedy
4 people found this helpful
I highly recommend vitamin C! When I sense a cold coming, one capsule at night and I'm back to feeling healthy by morning. It's essential for immunity and helps with the absorption of other vitamins.
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.
After taking vitamin C in combination with other vitamins, my test results improved significantly. The doctor indicated that if this progress continues, I may avoid surgery and hormones. My energy levels increased, my health improved, acne diminished, and my allergies nearly disappeared. Additionally, I experienced quicker recovery from common colds.
Read More
9
Prevention against colds
15 people found this helpful
Significantly cheaper than city pharmacies, this product contains 250 vegetarian capsules with 500 mg of vitamin C each. Vitamin C aids collagen synthesis, thereby enhancing skin and vessel health. Since taking it, my husband and I have not suffered from severe illness throughout the winter.
Read More
9
Recommended remedy
4 people found this helpful
I highly recommend vitamin C! When I sense a cold coming, one capsule at night and I'm back to feeling healthy by morning. It's essential for immunity and helps with the absorption of other vitamins.
Read More
9
All-round benefits
4 people found this helpful
Vitamin C is vital for numerous bodily functions, including boosting immunity and combating common colds. This product contains natural L-ascorbic acid, ensuring better absorption without digestive distress. My family solely uses this form for its efficacy.
Read More
9
Cold symptoms relief
3 people found this helpful
At the first sign of a cold, taking two tablets daily makes all symptoms vanish swiftly. I typically use this well-regarded vitamin for health maintenance, without side effects, which encourages me to recommend it wholeheartedly.
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 people report experiencing noticeable improvements in their symptoms related to the common cold quite rapidly after taking Vitamin C. For instance, some users mention feeling back to normal by the next morning after taking a dose when symptoms first appear Read Review. Others notice that their symptoms vanish swiftly, often within a day or two of starting the supplement Read ReviewRead Review.
In general, many users emphasize that Vitamin C can significantly bolster immunity and reduce the severity or duration of colds when taken promptly at the onset of symptoms Read Review. Furthermore, regular intake is associated with fewer colds over time, suggesting that consistency could enhance overall immunity during cold season Read Review. Overall, while individual results may vary, rapid relief seems to be a common theme among those who use this vitamin for cold symptoms.
Research suggests that vitamin C may offer benefits for managing common cold symptoms, particularly in terms of severity and duration. Regular supplementation of vitamin C at doses of 1 g or more daily can reduce the severity of colds by about 15% and shorten their duration, especially in individuals engaging in heavy physical activity or experiencing severe symptoms [1][2]. Interestingly, a study found that high doses of vitamin C (6-8 g/day) initiated after the onset of cold symptoms can lead to a shorter recovery period compared to lower doses [1].
However, it's essential to note that vitamin C does not prevent colds in the general population, although it has shown potential in specific groups, such as military recruits, reducing their incidence by 20% in a controlled study [7]. Overall, while mainstream medicine may be skeptical of vitamin C's effectiveness due to historical biases in research [3], the evidence supports its use as a possible adjunct in managing cold symptoms, making it worth consideration for those looking for relief during cold season.
Based on user reviews, many individuals report significant improvements in various symptoms after taking Vitamin C, particularly concerning immune function and recovery from colds. Users frequently mention that taking Vitamin C at the onset of cold symptoms leads to rapid relief, often experiencing a complete turnaround by the following day Read ReviewRead Review. Others have noted increased energy levels, clearer skin, and a noticeable reduction in allergies alongside fewer occurrences of illness throughout winter Read ReviewRead Review.
Moreover, some users credit Vitamin C with enhancing their overall health and preventing severe illnesses, with consistent use correlating to improved immunity Read Review. While these experiences highlight the potential benefits of Vitamin C, it’s essential to note that individual results can vary, and what works for one person may not have the same effect on another. Overall, Vitamin C appears to be a favored supplement for those looking to enhance their immune health and manage cold symptoms effectively.
Based on user reviews, many individuals report positive experiences when combining Vitamin C with other supplements to manage symptoms of the common cold. For instance, one user indicated that taking Vitamin C alongside folate improved their overall health and aided in a quicker recovery from cold symptoms, with noticeable results from just a single dose Read Review. Others have mentioned pairing it with various vitamins during the cold season to maximize immune support, resulting in significantly fewer illnesses Read Review.
Additionally, users frequently highlight the synergistic effects of combining Vitamin C with other supplements, noting improved energy levels, better absorption, and enhanced immune response. One reviewer specifically stated that taking Vitamin C helped with the absorption of other vitamins, thereby enhancing their overall effectiveness against cold symptoms Read Review. This suggests that integrating Vitamin C with a well-balanced supplement regimen can provide comprehensive support, particularly during peak cold seasons.
Research suggests that the optimal dose for Vitamin C in treating the common cold varies depending on the circumstances, but generally, taking 1 gram (1,000 mg) or more daily can reduce the severity of cold symptoms by approximately 15% [1]. For those who experience severe symptoms, the effects of Vitamin C are even more pronounced, highlighting its potential benefits during intense cold episodes [2].
When administered at higher doses, specifically in the range of 6 to 8 grams daily, Vitamin C has been shown to significantly shorten the duration of colds compared to lower amounts [1]. While Vitamin C doesn’t prevent common colds in the general population, it offers notable benefits for specific groups, such as individuals facing high physical stress [4]. For anyone looking to manage cold symptoms effectively, especially during colder months or stressful periods, considering a higher daily intake of Vitamin C may be worthwhile.
9
Recommended remedy
4 people found this helpful
I highly recommend vitamin C! When I sense a cold coming, one capsule at night and I'm back to feeling healthy by morning. It's essential for immunity and helps with the absorption of other vitamins.
9
Cold symptoms relief
3 people found this helpful
At the first sign of a cold, taking two tablets daily makes all symptoms vanish swiftly. I typically use this well-regarded vitamin for health maintenance, without side effects, which encourages me to recommend it wholeheartedly.
9
Effective remedy
This is an excellent vitamin C. As soon as I feel a common cold coming on, I take it, and in two days, I'm back to normal.
9
Strong immunity
Best for immunity! I've noticed a significant improvement; I no longer sneeze frequently. No gastrointestinal side effects, and it effectively prevents the onset of a common cold.
9
Prevented illness
1 people found this helpful
I have been taking Vitamin C for almost a month now. I haven't fallen ill this season, even when others around me have had colds. It’s a great value supplement for boosting immunity, and I highly recommend it.
9
Avoid surgery
252 people found this helpful
After taking vitamin C in combination with other vitamins, my test results improved significantly. The doctor indicated that if this progress continues, I may avoid surgery and hormones. My energy levels increased, my health improved, acne diminished, and my allergies nearly disappeared. Additionally, I experienced quicker recovery from common colds.
9
Cold prevention
1 people found this helpful
I like to think this vitamin is beneficial. I have not caught a common cold this winter, which is what I hoped for!
7.5
Dosage flexibility
Vitamin C in a good dosage. To prevent the common cold, I just increase my dose, and my family takes it daily.
7.5
Improved immunity
29 people found this helpful
During the autumn-winter period, I consume plenty of vitamins to maintain my immunity. Vitamin C is crucial and comes in a dark glass jar with 100 capsules, labelled for vegetarians. I've noticed a significant decrease in common colds and flu after starting to take it, leading to improved general well-being and absorption of other vitamins.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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