Synopsis

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

Citrus fruits, such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits, are widely used to support or treat colds, primarily due to their high vitamin C content. Scientific research has explored the effects of vitamin C on the common cold. While routine supplementation with vitamin C does not significantly reduce the incidence of the common cold in the general population, several studies have shown that regular vitamin C intake may modestly reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms. However, taking vitamin C after the onset of symptoms does not appear to be effective in shortening the cold or reducing its severity.

Citrus fruits themselves contain not only vitamin C but also other bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, which have demonstrated some antiviral and immune-modulating effects in laboratory studies. Despite this, clinical evidence directly linking citrus consumption (as opposed to isolated vitamin C supplements) to the prevention or treatment of colds is limited. The traditional use of citrus for colds is supported by its nutritional profile, but the scientific validation is primarily for vitamin C and is modest at best. Therefore, the scientific evidence supporting the use of citrus for colds is limited and rates about a 2 out of 5 on the evidence scale.

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