[Vitamin C and immune function]

Med Monatsschr Pharm. 2009 Feb;32(2):49-54; quiz 55-6.
[Article in German]

Abstract

The immune system is strongly influenced by the intake of nutrients. For a long time there has been a controversy whether vitamin C can contribute to the prevention and therapy of the common cold. Several cells of the immune system can indeed accumulate vitamin C and need the vitamin to perform their task, especially phagocytes and t-cells. Thus a vitamin C deficiency results in a reduced resistance against certain pathogens whilst a higher supply enhances several immune system parameters. With regard to the common cold different studies including meta-analyses underline that the prophylactic intake of vitamin C may slightly reduce the duration of the illness in healthy persons but does not affect its incidence and severity. Supplementation of vitamin C is most effective in cases of physical strain or insufficient intake of the vitamin. With regard to the therapy of the common cold the application of vitamin C alone is without clinical effects.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Ascorbic Acid / chemistry
  • Ascorbic Acid / metabolism
  • Ascorbic Acid / pharmacokinetics
  • Ascorbic Acid / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Immunity / physiology*
  • Immunity, Cellular / drug effects
  • Immunity, Cellular / physiology
  • Phagocytes / drug effects
  • Phagocytes / physiology
  • T-Lymphocytes / drug effects
  • T-Lymphocytes / physiology
  • Vitamins / physiology*

Substances

  • Vitamins
  • Ascorbic Acid