Does Vitamin C Help with Colds? Its Effects and Taste

Vitamin C for colds?

Hello Doctor, I have been feeling a bit under the weather lately.
In addition to taking cold medicine, I have also been taking some vitamin C that my family bought at home.
I would like to know if this is helpful for a cold.
Also, I sometimes experience a slight bitterness at the back of my tongue when I chew three crushed tablets at once, although it goes away after drinking water, and it mostly still tastes sour.
Is vitamin C supposed to be a bit bitter? I'm not sure if the medication has gone bad or if I'm taking too much.
Here is the brand of vitamin C I am taking: https://ibb.co/QDvQDNb.
Thank you for your response.

Henna, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/03/29

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, the taste of vitamins can vary from one brand to another due to different flavoring agents, making it difficult to determine if they have gone bad solely based on taste.
It is advisable to first check the expiration date; if it is still within the shelf life and the contents have not changed color or become clumpy, then it should be fine.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2021/03/29

More Info

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, has long been a subject of interest when it comes to its role in preventing and treating the common cold. While it is widely believed that Vitamin C can help reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms, the evidence supporting its effectiveness is mixed.

Research indicates that while Vitamin C does not prevent colds in the general population, it may be beneficial for individuals under physical stress, such as athletes or those exposed to extreme environmental conditions. A meta-analysis published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews found that regular supplementation with Vitamin C (at doses of 200 mg or more per day) can reduce the duration of colds by about 8% in adults and 14% in children. However, taking Vitamin C after the onset of cold symptoms does not appear to have a significant effect on recovery time.

In terms of its mechanism, Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. It also plays a crucial role in the immune system by supporting various cellular functions of both the innate and adaptive immune systems. This includes enhancing the function of white blood cells, which are essential for fighting infections.

Regarding your experience with the taste of Vitamin C, it is important to note that the flavor of Vitamin C supplements can vary significantly based on the formulation and any additional ingredients included. Many Vitamin C supplements are designed to be tart or sour due to the acidic nature of ascorbic acid. If you are experiencing a bitter taste, it could be due to the specific formulation of the supplement you are taking or the presence of other ingredients. It is also possible that the tablets may have degraded if they have been stored improperly or are past their expiration date. Always check the expiration date and storage instructions on the packaging.

If you are taking multiple tablets at once, it is advisable to follow the recommended dosage on the label or as advised by a healthcare professional. Excessive intake of Vitamin C can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, including diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal cramps. The tolerable upper intake level for adults is set at 2,000 mg per day, and exceeding this amount may increase the risk of side effects.

In summary, while Vitamin C may not prevent colds, it can potentially shorten their duration and alleviate symptoms, particularly in individuals under stress. As for the taste, it is normal for Vitamin C to have a sour or slightly bitter flavor, but if you notice any unusual tastes or symptoms, it may be worth consulting with a healthcare provider or pharmacist. Always ensure you are taking supplements as directed and consider a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, which are excellent natural sources of Vitamin C.

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