Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that’s naturally found in some foods and also available in supplement form. People are unable to make Vitamin C in their bodies, so it’s an essential nutrient we have to get from our diets. It’s mostly used by the body for building collagen (hello supple skin), is an important antioxidant, and helps play a role in immune function.* It’s especially because of this last reason that it’s often suggested to take Vitamin C when you get a cold. But can it actually help?

When the sniffles start, it’s common to pour yourself some honey lemon tea and pop a Vitamin C. But according to research, taking Vitamin C after the onset of cold symptoms does not appear to help. It won’t change your cold’s duration or symptom severity when taken after symptoms start.¹

Well, that’s a bummer! But, if Vitamin C doesn’t help stop a cold in its tracks, why should you take it? Well, we’ve gathered the research and are sharing why you should still consider taking Vitamin C.

Vitamin C can help with collagen production.* Vital for hair, skin, nail and joint health, collagen keeps skin looking toned and firm.* With these beauty benefits, it’s not surprising why Vitamin C serums are so popular in the beauty and skincare industry! Why not support beauty from within with a daily dose of Vitamin C?*

Vitamin C contributes to the normal function of your immune system.* Despite not being able to stop the common cold in its tracks, it does provide support for normal immune health.* Having a functioning immune system is key to your wellbeing, helping you feel your best.*

Vitamin C supports connective tissue formation.* Connective tissue is found all over the body and helps to provide support.* From protection to flexibility and strength, this tissue supports your internal organs and structures like blood vessels and nerves. Talk about an important role!

Vitamin C helps with protein and fat metabolism and is also a co-factor in the absorption, transport, and storage of iron.* This is why many iron supplements suggest you take them with Vitamin C for optimal absorption. If you take iron, talk to your doctor to see if you would benefit from taking a Vitamin C supplement.

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant.* It can help with free-radicals which are unstable ions in the body. They can cause cellular damage, but antioxidants neutralize free radicals stopping them from causing harm.* Antioxidant protection is key in maintaining good health by protecting against cellular damage.*

While research doesn’t support the claim that Vitamin C can help treat the common cold, it does have many benefits for good health.* When considering your wellness routine, ask your doctor if taking a Vitamin C supplement would be beneficial for you!

References:

¹Douglas, RM et al. (2007). Cochrane Database Syst. Rev. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17636648?dopt=Abstract