High-Dose Vitamin C Supplementation as a Legitimate Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Prophylaxis in Healthy Subjects-Yes or No?

Nutrients. 2022 Feb 25;14(5):979. doi: 10.3390/nu14050979.

Abstract

Vitamin C has a number of acitvities that could contribute to its immune-modulating effects. The only question is whether we should provide ourselves with only the right level of it, or do we need much more during a pandemic? The possibility of reducing the incidence of viral diseases in a well-nourished population through the use of dietary supplements based on vitamin C is not supported in the literature. Despite this, the belief that an extra intake of vitamin C can increase the efficacy of the immune system is still popular and vitamin C is advertised as a remedy to prevent infectious disease. This article refers to the justification of the use of vitamin C in high doses as an anti-SARS-CoV-2 prophylaxis in healthy subjects. Does it make sense or not? As it turns out, any effects of vitamin C supplementation may be more prominent when the baseline vitamin C level is low, for example in physically active persons. People with hypovitaminosis C are more likely to respond to vitamin C administration. No studies regarding prevention of COVID-19 with high-dose vitamin C supplementation in healthy subjects were found.

Keywords: SARS-CoV-2; immune function; prophylaxis; vitamin C.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Ascorbic Acid
  • COVID-19* / prevention & control
  • Dietary Supplements
  • Healthy Volunteers
  • Humans
  • SARS-CoV-2*

Substances

  • Ascorbic Acid