VItamin C may be helpful in the prevention of the common cold, according to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University. It is useful in increasing immunity and aids in the production of the white blood cells that help fight infections. Vitamin C also helps increase the number of antibodies in the blood. As an antioxidant, vitamin C kills pathogens.
Source
Many fruits and vegetables contain vitamin C. You can get the amount you need by eating citrus fruits, which are rich in vitamin C, such as oranges, limes, lemons and grapefruits. Other fruits high in vitamin C include cherries and grapes. Vegetables, especially those with a lot of color, are also good sources of vitamin C. These include orange carrots and red peppers, which also contain antioxidants.
Prevention
Prevention of a cold may be obtained by taking in the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Office of Dietary Supplements, the daily RDA for an adult is 75 to 90 mg per day. Infants younger than 6 months are advised to take 40 mg per day, and pregnant women may take 80 to 85 mg per day.
Deficiency
A deficiency of vitamin C is called scurvy, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. It was found to be cured by limes and lemons in the 1700s by the British Navy. Symptoms of scurvy include low levels of carnitine, weakened bones and muscles, hair loss and lowered immunity from diseases such as the common cold.
Overdose
According to the Vitamin C Foundation, some people can experience diarrhea when taking 4 to 15 g of vitamin C a day; however, It reports that doses up to 200 g, or 200,000 mg, are tolerated when you have a cold or viral infection. Consult a physician about the amount of vitamin C that can be safely taken.
Function
Vitamin C functions as an antioxidant and destroys the free radicals in the blood that cause toxicity. The Linus Pauling Institute points out that vitamin C is known to boost immunity and protect you from viral infections such as the common cold.
Warning
Consult a medical professional before adding any vitamins to your diet, as they may cause side effects or conflict with prescription medicine.
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