Studies have found that vitamin C can reduce the duration of colds and one research paper published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews states that “given the consistent effect of vitamin C on the duration and severity of colds in the regular supplementation studies, and the low cost and safety, it may be worthwhile for common cold patients to test on an individual basis whether therapeutic vitamin C is beneficial for them”.
The Mayo Clinic doctor said you can get enough vitamin C through your diet if you are eating enough fruits and vegetables, but you can try a daily supplement to pump it up more.
Dr Jesse Bracamonte has said that while vitamin C in extra doses cannot prevent colds, it may speed up the recovery process.
Most shops sell 500mg vitamin C tablets such as Tesco, where you can get 120 tablets for £4.75 - or less than 4p a pill.
If you want to try getting vitamin C naturally, you can also opt for Brussels sprouts, blackcurrants, broccoli and potatoes, the NHS advises.
