Benefits of Taking Vitamin C during Winter
Winter is the time of year when the body is exposed to a variety of cold and flu viruses. The cold weather can also weaken the immune system, making it more susceptible to infections. However, there is one vitamin that can help to boost the immune system and protect the body against illness and that is vitamin C.
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that is required for the proper functioning of the immune system. It is a powerful antioxidant that can help to prevent oxidative damage to the cells of the body. This vitamin is also essential to help produce white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting off infections.
During the winter months, it is important to make sure that you are getting enough vitamin C. Here are some of the benefits of taking vitamin C during the winter season:
Boosts Immunity
One of the primary benefits of taking vitamin C during the winter season is that it can boost the immune system. This vitamin plays a vital role in the production of white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting off infections. Studies have shown that vitamin C can increase the production of white blood cells, making it easier for the body to fight off infections. 1
Reduces the Duration and Severity of Cold and Flu Symptoms
Vitamin C can also help to reduce the duration and severity of cold and flu symptoms. This vitamin has been shown to reduce the length of colds by up to 14% in adults and up to 18% in children. It can also help to reduce the severity of symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, and congestion. 2
Protects Against Respiratory Infections
Respiratory infections such as colds, flu, and pneumonia are common during the winter season. Vitamin C can help to protect against these infections by strengthening the immune system and reducing inflammation in the respiratory tract. Studies have shown that taking vitamin C can reduce the risk of respiratory infections by up to 50%. (Reference: Gorton HC, Jarvis K. The effectiveness of vitamin C in preventing and relieving the symptoms of virus-induced respiratory infections. 3
Reduces the Risk of Complications
Complications from colds and flu can be serious, particularly in people with weakened immune systems. Vitamin C can help to reduce the risk of complications by strengthening the immune system and reducing inflammation in the body. Studies have shown that taking vitamin C can reduce the risk of pneumonia and other respiratory infections in people with weakened immune systems. 4
Find out more about AVALIFE™’s Vita C formulation and prepare for a healthy and happy winter season!
Available at selected pharmacies and health stores.
References
- Carr AC, Maggini S. Vitamin C and Immune Function. Nutrients. 2017;9(11):1211. doi:10.3390/nu9111211
- Hemilä H, Chalker E. Vitamin C for preventing and treating the common cold. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2013;(1):CD000980. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD000980.pub4
- J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 1999;22(8):530-533. doi:10.1016/s0161-4754(99)70005-9 and Hemilä H. Vitamin C and infections. Nutrients. 2017;9(4):339. doi:10.3390/nu9040339 and Hemilä H, Louhiala P. Vitamin C for preventing and treating pneumonia. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2013;(8):CD005532. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD005532.pub3)
- Szyszkowicz M, Rowe BH. Decreasing levels of ascorbic acid in the United States population and implications for respiratory disease outcomes. Int J Vitam Nutr Res. 2007;77(6):387-397. doi:10.102
