Vitamin C has long been touted as an excellent addition to full-body health and wellness. People take it to ward off sickness, put it on their skin for a healthy glow and more. While researchers suggest vitamin C can’t stop a cold in its tracks, it may be beneficial in minimally shortening its length when consumed regularly.
One less-discussed topic surrounding vitamin C is its impact on allergies. Let’s look at why vitamin C is important, its effect on allergies and what you can do to ensure you get your daily amount.
Why Is Vitamin C Important?
Vitamin C, commonly found in fruits and vegetables, is essential for multiple functions, including:
- The formation of blood vessels, cartilage, muscle and bone collagen in your body
- Helping your body heal
- Protecting your body against the effects of free radicals (molecules that may play a role in cancer, heart disease and more)
- Helping your body absorb iron
What Is the Connection Between Vitamin C and Allergies?
One 2018 trial treating 71 allergy patients with intravenous vitamin C found that high doses of the nutrient could reduce allergy-related symptoms.
This study was backed up by a more recent 2023 review of experiments designed to examine the link between vitamin C and various lung disorders, including asthma, lung cancer, lung fibrosis, allergic and immunologic disorders and more. The review found that vitamin C’s positive effect on allergy symptoms could be due to its anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and antioxidant properties. The review further went on to say that the findings showed a promising therapeutic effect of vitamin C on multiple respiratory diseases that warrants further trials.
How Can You Improve Your Vitamin C Intake?
The recommended daily amount of vitamin C for adults aged 19 years and older is 90 mg for men and 75 mg for women. Because your body cannot make vitamin C, getting your daily amount through foods or provider-approved supplements is important. A few food sources of vitamin C include:
- Oranges
- Bell peppers
- Kiwis
- Strawberries
- Tomatoes
- Cruciferous vegetables
- White potatoes
Your doctor can help you determine the right amount of vitamin C for you and if you are deficient. If you struggle to get your daily allotment of this essential nutrient, head to the City Farmers Market Atlanta and grab a few extra fruits and veggies.
It’s crucial to remember that while vitamin C may play a role in managing your inflammatory response to allergies, there is no substitute for professional allergy management. Immunotherapy, allergy medication and more can help you effectively manage your allergies and prevent severe reactions. To make an appointment with one of our allergy specialists, contact ENT of Georgia North today.
