DOES VITAMIN C BOOST YOUR IMMUNITY?

Vitamin C, also known as Ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin which means that it is not stored, and any excess is removed from our body. It is also a micronutrient which means it is required in relatively smaller amounts. An average adult needs about 80-120 mg of Vitamin C daily. Vitamin C accumulates in phagocytic cells, such as neutrophils, and can enhance chemotaxis, phagocytosis, generation of reactive oxygen species ultimately leading to the microbial killing. It also plays an important role in the body to make collagen, a protein which provides structural support in connective tissues, muscle, and skin. Deficiency of Vitamin C leads to scurvy, a condition characterized by weakening of collagenous structures, resulting in poor wound healing, and impaired immunity.

It is clear that Vitamin C is necessary for keeping the immune system healthy, and studies have shown that it might slightly reduce the duration of the illness. However, there is no evidence to prove that it affects the incidence or severity of the illness. For example, Vitamin C might reduce the duration of the common cold in adults by 8% and by 14% in children, but has no effect on whether the person will get the common cold or not, and will be equally severe with or without the excess dosage of Vitamin C. Further, on a closer look at the packaging, you will notice a disclaimer from the manufacturer stating "These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease."

To conclude, Vitamin C is an essential contributing factor in the normal functioning of the immune system. However, it no way can reduce the chances of a person contracting an infection or vary the severity of it.