Relationship: Immune System and vitamin C

Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin C
For the body system: Immune System

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is commonly associated with immune system support. Scientific research has established that vitamin C plays several important roles in immune function. It acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect cells from damage by free radicals. Vitamin C also supports various cellular functions of both the innate and adaptive immune systems. For example, it stimulates the production and function of white blood cells (such as phagocytes and lymphocytes), enhances skin barrier function, and promotes the clearance of old cells and the growth of new tissue.

Multiple studies have investigated vitamin C’s effect on the prevention and treatment of respiratory infections, including the common cold. While routine vitamin C supplementation does not appear to reduce the incidence of colds in the general population, some evidence suggests that it may reduce the duration and severity of symptoms. In certain groups exposed to physical stress (e.g., marathon runners, soldiers in subarctic conditions), vitamin C supplementation may reduce the incidence of colds.

Overall, the scientific evidence supports a role for vitamin C in the maintenance of normal immune function, though its effectiveness in preventing or treating infections is limited and context-dependent. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses (such as those conducted by the Cochrane Collaboration) rate the benefit as modest. Thus, vitamin C is scientifically validated as important for immune health, but claims of dramatic effects are not supported by high-quality evidence.

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Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin C
For the body system: Immune System

Table of Contents

Synopsis

Other ingredients that support Immune System

Other body systems supported by vitamin C

Products containing vitamin C

Health Concerns

Brands

Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin CFor the body system: Immune System

Table of Contents

Synopsis

Other ingredients that support Immune System

Other body systems supported by vitamin C

Products containing vitamin C

Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin C
For the body system: Immune System