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Vitamin C's Cold-Fighting Myths: Focus on Vitamin D Instead

12/8/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Daniel M. Davis of Imperial College London says vitamin C offers limited benefits for colds.
He notes vitamin C is an antioxidant and aids iron absorption, but its cold-fighting image stems from Pauling's 1970 book.
Research shows vitamin C does not significantly reduce catching a cold, though it may shorten symptom duration.
Davis advises focusing on vitamin D for immune health in winter when sunlight is limited.

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Story summary

Daniel M. Davis of Imperial College London says vitamin C offers limited benefits for colds.
He notes vitamin C is an antioxidant and aids iron absorption, but its cold-fighting image stems from Pauling's 1970 book.
Research shows vitamin C does not significantly reduce catching a cold, though it may shorten symptom duration.
Davis advises focusing on vitamin D for immune health in winter when sunlight is limited.