From the Research
Emergen-C (Ascorbic Acid) Drink Scientific Support
- The use of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) in preventing and treating the common cold has been a subject of controversy for 70 years 1.
- A study published in 2013 found that regular supplementation with vitamin C reduced the duration of colds in adults by 8% and in children by 14% 1.
- However, the same study found that vitamin C supplementation 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 1.
- Another study published in 2023 highlighted the importance of ascorbic acid in managing various diseases, including the common cold, and its role in improving immunity and reducing the severity of allergies 2.
- The daily recommended intake of vitamin C is 90 mg/d for men and 75 mg/d for women, with higher doses needed for patients with chronic diseases or those who smoke 3.
- Epidemiological evidence indicates that low systemic vitamin C concentrations are associated with negative health outcomes, but there is no evidence that vitamin C supplementation impacts the risks for all-cause mortality, impaired cognitive performance, or reduced quality of life 4.
- Ascorbic acid has been shown to have multiple effects against chronic diseases, including reducing oxidative stress and preventing cell, tissue, and organ damage 5.
Key Findings
- Regular vitamin C supplementation reduces the duration of colds in adults and children 1.
- Vitamin C may be useful for people exposed to brief periods of severe physical exercise 1.
- Ascorbic acid is essential for preventing scurvy and is implicated in the primary prevention of common and complex diseases 4.
- Ascorbic acid supplementation may reduce oxidative stress and prevent several chronic conditions 5.
Limitations
- The majority of studies on vitamin C supplementation have been conducted in healthy individuals, with limited research on its effects in patients with chronic diseases 4.
- The evidence for the use of ascorbic acid in preventing and treating the common cold is inconsistent, with some studies showing no benefit 1.