Q: I take VITAMIN C every day, and haven't had a cold in years. My doctortells me it's the placebo effect, that there's no proof this vitamin prevents colds.
A: He's right and wrong. A recent review of studies on VITAMIN C and the common cold showed that it did not actually prevent colds. However, there are many studies showing that vitamin C is antioxidant, antiviral, antibacterial, and an immune booster. It helps the body fight infection, has known antihistamine effects, and increases white blood cell counts. A Seattle study found that 25 percent of newly admitted hospital patients were deficient in vitamin C; other studies found that up to 50 percent of American women take less than the recommended daily allowance. I recommend this vitamin as a part of almost every treatment program I offer.
PHOTO (COLOR): Cold Comfort
