Vitamin C For A Cold And Flu Illness

The common cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract that causes symptoms such as sore throat, fatigue, runny and congested nose, cough and sometimes low grade fever. Flu is a more severe form of the common cold characterized by sore throat, high fever, headache, muscle aches, congestion, cough and marked tiredness. Vitamin C is a potent oxidant and immune system booster that may help individuals with colds and flu, although clinical research is controversial regarding its efficacy.

Benefits

Vitamin C supplementation may help a variety of medical conditions, including respiratory conditions such as asthma and allergies, cataracts, diabetes, certain pregnancy complications, high blood pressure, wound healing and immune system support. Vitamin C is involved in optimal function of white blood cells as well as production of interferon, which is a chemical with antiviral qualities. It also increases the production of hormones from the thymus and is involved in collagen structures which help fight infections.

Sources

Dietary sources of vitamin C include vegetables such as parsley, broccoli, pepper, cauliflower, kale, mustard greens, Brussels sprouts and fruits like strawberries, oranges, lemons and papaya.
Supplements are available in different forms such as capsules, powders, tablets and crystals. Buffered vitamin C is a popular form of vitamin C supplement because it reduces the risk of stomach irritation.

Research

According to American Family Physician, vitamin C may slightly decrease the duration and severity of the common cold if taken as a preventive measure to fight the infection. A study conducted by R. M. Douglas and colleagues, published in the Cochrane Database in July 2007 found that vitamin C supplementation did not reduce the incidence of colds in the general population; however, there is evidence that people exposed to short periods of intense physical exercise or cold weather conditions may benefit from using vitamin C supplements.

Side Effects and Interactions

According to Michael Murray, ND, researcher and author of "The Pill Book Guide to Natural Medicines," vitamin C showed an excellent safety profile in clinical studies that evaluated this nutrient for colds and flu.
Side effects include loose stools, bloating and in rare cases may raise the risk of kidney stones formation. Vitamin C may raise the absorption of antacids that contain aluminum, such as Maalox. To prevent this issue, vitamin C should be taken at least two hours prior taking aluminum-based antacid.

Considerations

Consult a qualified practitioner to find out optimal dosage for colds and flu as well as possible side effects and interactions with drugs and herbs. Vitamin C does not replace conventional treatment that may be recommended for colds and flu.