Myth Buster: Vitamin C Supplements and Cold Prevention

Vitamin C supplements may not reduce the risk of colds, but they can improve symptoms and speed up recovery. Dr. Le Huyen Nhi from the Department of Nutrition at Tam Anh General Hospital in Hanoi explains that vitamin C is crucial for maintaining bone, muscle, and blood vessel health. It supports collagen formation, iron absorption, and strengthens the immune system by increasing the activity of T lymphocytes, phagocytic function, and leukocyte mobility. Additionally, vitamin C acts as an antioxidant, combating oxidative stress during infections.

Deficiencies in vitamin C can manifest as easy bruising, bleeding gums, fatigue, a weakened immune system, and an increased infection risk. Sufficient vitamin C in the body can increase resistance to disease and help reduce symptoms and shorten the duration of respiratory infections like colds, flu, bronchitis, and sinusitis. Food sources rich in vitamin C include guava, citrus fruits, bell peppers, kiwi, strawberries, papaya, broccoli