Vit C for Cold?

“Is it true that a daily dose of vitamin C will prevent the onset of the common cold?” Natalia

Unfortunately, a 2013 Cochrane review involving more than 11,000 people found that taking vitamin C regularly (at least 0.2 grams per day) did not reduce the incidence of colds in the general population but may be useful for people exposed to brief periods of severe physical exercise. However, there is some evidence that vitamin C is associated may reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms; however, these results were not replicated in the few therapeutic trials that have been conducted.

The side effects of taking too much vitamin C include diarrhea, stomach cramps and, nausea. It is contraindicated for people with hemochromatosis. People who are being treated for cancer or taking cholesterol-lowering medications should talk with their physician before taking vitamin C supplements.

• Visit the Office of Dietary Supplements' Web site to find out more about vitamin C