Vitamin C does not prevent colds, reduce duration

CANBERRA

A new study has found that there is no correlation between taking vitamin C and the prevention of colds, foodbeat.com has reported.

The study by Australia’s National Center for Epidemiology and Population Health reviewed over 30 published trials examining vitamin C and sickness in a combined group of over 10,000 participants.

Results showed that even high levels of vitamin C did nothing to prevent colds. It did find, however, that the vitamin could shorten the duration of a cold by half a day. There are beneficial health effects of consuming this common vitamin. Vitamin C is used by the body to strengthen bones and cartilage, help build muscle and aid in the absorption of iron.

The Australian National Institute of Health recommends eating foods high in vitamin C in their raw form. The vitamin is water-soluble and cooking can deplete natural vitamin stores in the foods. The best foods to eat that are high in vitamin C are citrus fruit, peppers, dark green leafy vegetables and certain fruit. Vitamin C supplements are also beneficial.