How much vitamin C should I take when I have a cold?

Taking 6,000–10,000 mg of vitamin C daily at the early onset of cold symptoms has been shown to reduce recovery time. To maximize absorption and minimize an upset stomach, take 1,000–2,000 mg every 2–3 hours. Taking too much vitamin C can cause diarrhea. If you experience gastrointestinal issues, cut your dose in half.

Is zinc or vitamin C better for a cold?

In pooled analyses of both studies (n=94), vitamin C plus zinc was significantly more efficient than placebo at reducing rhinorrhoea over 5 days of treatment. Furthermore, symptom relief was quicker and the product was well tolerated.

How much zinc should I take to fight a cold?

People use oral zinc to help treat colds, but it can decrease the effectiveness of certain drugs and cause side effects. The recommended daily amount of zinc is 8 milligrams (mg) for women and 11 mg for adult men.

How much vitamin C and zinc should you take for a cold?

The German Nutrition Society recommends healthy adults a daily intake of at least 7 to 10 mg of zinc and 95 to 110 mg of vitamin C, depending on gender, to satisfy the normal need. If there is no illness or another acute deficiency situation, this can be accomplished simply by a balanced diet.

Does zinc really shorten a cold?

Recently an analysis of several studies showed that zinc lozenges or syrup reduced the length of a cold by one day, especially when taken within 24 hours of the first signs and symptoms of a cold.

Can vitamin C really help you treat a cold?

Vitamin C. It appears that for the most part taking vitamin C won’t help the average person prevent colds. However, taking vitamin C before the onset of cold symptoms may shorten the duration of symptoms.

Does vitamin C really do anything?

Vitamin C is an important vitamin and antioxidant that the body uses to keep you strong and healthy. Vitamin C is used in the maintenance of bones, muscle, and blood vessels. Vitamin C also assists in the formation of collagen and helps the body absorb iron.

What is the effectiveness of vitamin C for colds?

How effective is vitamin C for colds? Most studies show that high doses of vitamin C (2-3 grams per day) decrease the duration of cold symptoms by about a day. Tracy Wimbush, MD, emergency room specialist, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston. Douglas, R. , June 2005. Public Library of Science Medicine News release, Public Library of Science.

Do foods with vitamin C prevent colds?

Three ounces of cooked, tender lobster provides about 32 percent of your daily needs of protein, it also contains an adequate amount of zinc and vitamin B12 as well. Asparagus offers a bit of vitamin C to the plate, too; The combination of asparagus and lobster are great foods to prevent colds.