Q. Does vitamin C really help us when we're sick?
Read on to find out..
Benefits of vitamin C
> Supports our immune system.
> Protects our joints.
> Contributes to collagen formation.
> Protects body cells against free radicals.
Despite all these benefits, there is limited evidence to support the notion that taking extra doses of vitamin C can effectively prevent common colds.
Our bodies don't produce vitamin C on their own. However, a lot of what we eat contain vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, potatoes, spinach, tomatoes and berries. Do you know that orange bell pepper has 3 times more vitamin C than an orange? Thus, taking vitamin C in the form of food is the best way to reap its benefits. If you are not able to eat an adequate supply of fruits and vegetables everyday, a little bit of added vitamin C may help.
Side effects of too much vitamin C
Be careful though, too much vitamin C can have these side effects:
- Nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, bloating, fatigue, heartburn, headache, skin flushing and kidney stones.
- Can interfere with medications and the results of medical tests such as blood or glucose screening.
- Using vitamin C while taking oral contraceptives can potentially increase oestrogen levels.
- May lessen the effect of chemotherapy drugs.
Do not exceed the recommended daily dose of 500 mg.
Some limited research shows that vitamin C may shorten the duration of a viral infection, such as the common cold. So, if your cold lasts 1 week, taking vitamin C may reduce it by 13 hours. It really isn't that significant.
(Source: Taking vitamin C when sick, Starhealth, 17/11/2024)
My Recommendation
Personally, I believe it is better to consume a "buffet spread" of multiple vitamins, minerals and enzymes, as very often our body needs a combination of micro-nutrients to work effectively. Bee pollen is one such natural source. It contains many of the nutrients needed by the body (including vitamin C) and is easily absorbed and utilised.
Yung Kien Pollen is something I have been taking for more than 17 years and highly recommend. It is natural and doesn't contain preservatives or antibiotics. It is safe to consume, even in higher dose. It goes through a stringent sterilisation process to kill the bacteria and virus. It is also put through many tests to detect the presence of heavy metal and micro-organisms. All these set Yung Kien Pollen apart from many other bee pollen products in the market.
This is a comprehensive article presented by Ms Cheng, an expert nutritionist from Shuang Hor Taiwan, if you are curious to find out more..
http://www.pingofhealth.com/2019/02/competitive-edge-of-yung-kien-pollen.html
