Question

Large doses of vitamin C in supplement form are known to prevent, cure, or diminish the symptoms of the common cold?

1) True
2) False

Answer 1

High doses of vitamin C are not confirmed to prevent or cure the common cold, but may modestly reduce its duration and severity. No substantial evidence supports its use as a definitive treatment. Sources like citrus fruits and green vegetables are rich in vitamin C, essential for other bodily functions.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question whether large doses of vitamin C in supplement form are known to prevent, cure, or diminish the symptoms of the common cold is often subject to conflicting information. However, reviews indicate that while vitamin C may modestly reduce the duration and severity of colds, it is not considered a cure. Specifically, a 2007 review states that vitamin C prophylaxis may reduce the duration and severity of the common cold in the general population, and a 2014 review found insufficient evidence for its use as a treatment. Additionally, the body requires vitamin C for various functions including the absorption of iron from the intestine. Citrus fruits like lemons and oranges, along with fresh green vegetables, are rich sources of vitamin C.

It is important to recognize that there is no cure for the common cold, and while alternative treatments such as Echinacea, vitamin C, and zinc are explored, the effectiveness of these treatments for preventing or curing the common cold is not definitively supported by clinical research. Notably, antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections, including the common cold, and their misuse can cause more harm despite them being frequently prescribed.

The Nobel laureate chemist Linus Pauling was an advocate for high doses of vitamin C, but most clinical research, including studies conducted after his death, have failed to show a connection between large vitamin C doses and the prevention of the common cold. Lastly, the use of zinc when administered within 24 hours of the onset of symptoms has shown some effectiveness in reducing cold duration and severity, unlike vitamin C where the evidence is mixed or insufficient.

Answer 2

Large doses of vitamin C in supplement form are not known to prevent, cure, or diminish the symptoms of the common cold; thus, the correct answer is False (Option 2).

Step-by-step explanation:

The question of whether large doses of vitamin C can prevent, cure, or diminish the symptoms of the common cold is one that has been investigated in various studies. According to a 2007 review, vitamin C prophylaxis may modestly reduce the duration and severity of the common cold in the general population and particularly in those exposed to physical and environmental stresses. However, it does not prevent the common cold. Furthermore, a 2014 review found insufficient evidence for the effectiveness of Echinacea in treating the common cold.

It is important to note that while vitamin C obtained from dietary sources like citrus fruits, green vegetables, and tomatoes is crucial for overall health and can support immune function, there does not exist a conventional cure for the common cold. Excessive use of supplements can carry risks and should be approached cautiously. The appropriate answer to the question is: False; large doses of vitamin C in supplement form are not known to prevent the common cold.

Thus, the correct answer is option 2.