Scientists have debunked the popular myth that vitamin C prevents colds. According to new data, ascorbic acid does not prevent infection with acute respiratory viral infections, but it may slightly alleviate symptoms, reports the website infohub.kz.
The myth of the miraculous power of vitamin C originated in 1970 after the publication of the book by Linus Pauling, a two-time Nobel Prize laureate. The scientist claimed that taking up to 2000 milligrams of the substance daily helps the body resist infections. However, modern researchers have repeatedly pointed out mathematical errors and the use of irrelevant scientific data in his work.
Modern meta-analyses of clinical studies show that regular intake of ascorbic acid does not reduce the risk of catching a cold among the general population. A small benefit from the supplement is observed only in athletes and military personnel undergoing extreme physical exertion. For other people, vitamin C may reduce the duration of severe symptoms by only 10-15%, and only if taken regularly before the onset of illness.
Experts warn that regular consumption of high doses of vitamin C (over 1000 milligrams per day) can be harmful to health. Excess ascorbic acid often leads to gastrointestinal disorders, increases the risk of kidney stones, and may cause tissue damage due to excessive iron absorption.