Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Vitamin C has a long history of use in the prevention and treatment of the common cold, popularized largely by Linus Pauling in the 1970s. Scientific studies have shown that while vitamin C is essential for immune function and acts as an antioxidant, its effectiveness in preventing the common cold in the general population is limited. Meta-analyses and systematic reviews, such as the Cochrane review (Hemilä & Chalker, 2013), have found that routine vitamin C supplementation does not significantly reduce the incidence of colds in the general population. However, it may slightly reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms if taken regularly. Some evidence suggests that individuals under extreme physical stress, such as marathon runners, soldiers, or skiers, might experience a reduction in cold incidence with vitamin C supplementation. For the general population, the benefit appears marginal at best, mostly limited to a very modest reduction in cold duration (about 8% in adults and 14% in children). In summary, while there is some scientific evidence supporting a small benefit in terms of cold duration and severity, routine use of vitamin C for cold prevention in the general population is not strongly supported. Its widespread use is therefore based on both historical popularity and limited scientific validation.

More about vitamin C
More about Colds (prevention)

Other ingredients used for Colds (prevention)

Other health conditions supported by vitamin C

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