Extra vitamin C does not prevent acute respiratory infections, doctor says

Occupational medicine specialist Dr. Svetlana Bornatskaya has said that while vitamin C is essential, taking extra doses does not protect against acute viral respiratory infections.

She added that although vitamin C is widely available in pharmacies, especially during cold and flu season, the belief that frequent consumption is a healthy habit is incorrect, according to Russia Today.

Bornatskaya explained that relying on increased amounts of antioxidants for protection is an oversimplification that could have health consequences.

She acknowledged that antioxidants help protect cells from damage, but the body does not require large doses. Balance, rather than excess, is best.