C the Light

An apple a day keeps the doctor away – we've all heard it. Whenever we feel the first sniffles of a cold, we stock up on oranges, break out the lemon drinks and chew vitamin C. 

Is it useful? The answer is a resounding yes. Vitamin C is crucial for the healthy function of the human immune system, and has many more benefits than simply helping with the common cold.

Traditional remedies

One of the greatest (an oldest) remedies for the common cold is as follows; the juice of a lemon, a teaspoon of honey –active manuka if possible, a teaspoon of cider vinegar and a slug of whiskey or brandy, topped up with hot water. It fights the virus, clears the nose, soothes the throat and is generally delicious.

Benefits

Vitamin C is found in high concentrations in the immune cells and is quickly depleted during times of illness. Vitamin C needs to be regularly replaced in the body as it does not store well. 

It is a powerful antioxidant, which helps prevent cell degeneration, and fight illnesses. Vitamin C is also a natural antihistamine, which helps allergy sufferers.

Vitamin C also helps your body absorb iron more efficiently.

Taken in conjunction with zinc, high doses of vitamin C (up to 2000mg) in the early stages of a virus can prevent it from developing. You must also rest and hydrate yourself at the same time.

High levels of vitamin C are also thought to reduce the risk of stroke.

How do you take vitamin C?

Vitamin C is present is most fruit and vegetables (more so in citrus and highly coloured fruit and vegetables). If you enjoy a balanced diet, with five or more servings of fruit and vegetables per day, chances are, you have good levels of vitamin C. However, if you have been ill, are on medication or don't eat a lot of fresh, unprocessed food, you may require supplementation.

How much is too much?

In a healthy body, if you are taking too much vitamin C, your body will usually react with a bout of diarrhea.

If you have a specialist medical condition, it is important to ask your health professional before you begin any additional dietary supplement.