TriVita Vital C Crystal Powder Review
Vital C is a vitamin C powder antioxidant and detoxifier that helps prevent damage from free radicals. Free radicals come from things like processed foods, household cleaners, environmental pollution, smoke, and radiation. Health benefits include collagen production, immune, cardiovascular, and bone health. The body can't produce or store vitamin C, so year-round supplementation is recommended. Available in unflavored or orange powder. Suggested use: Vital C Powder: Adults and children over the age of 10 should take 1/4 to 1 teaspoon of powder daily with or without food. Stir into water, fruit juice or beverage of choice. Vital C Tablets: Adults and children over the age of 10 should take 1-2 tablets daily, with or without food. The Vital C Powder benefits section explains that Vitamin C helps our bodies protect our health and help our immune system do its job. The page describes this workhorse vitamin as helping us grow and repair tissue in all parts of the body, forming collagen, a protein in skin, ligaments and blood vessels, and helping repair and maintain cartilage, bones and teeth. Because Vitamin C is an antioxidant, it helps block some of the damage caused by free radicals. These unstable molecules are formed by normal body processes, like digesting food, and also by tobacco smoke or radiation. The buildup of free radicals over time is described as largely responsible for the aging process. The page also notes that the body cannot make Vitamin C or store it up, so it is vital to get all we need by eating lots of fruits and vegetables and by taking supplements. In the FAQs, the company says its products are thoughtfully crafted with essential nutrients to support overall wellness and help fill everyday nutritional gaps, and that it uses high-quality, fermented ingredients the body can recognize. The page states that Vital C tablets and powder both use Alfred Libbys original formulation, and that the difference lies in the form, serving size and method of consumption. It describes Vital C Crystal Powder for day (fast release) and Crystal Tablets for night (slower release), and says both powder and tablets are easy to digest and gentle on the stomach. The page also lists a 60-day money back guarantee and a Scientifically Validated Formula. Statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, and the product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Consult a healthcare provider if pregnant, nursing or on medications, and keep out of reach of children.
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Study, Trial or Testing Result Summary
Members Only33 human studies · 10 improved
2 of these 33 human studies gave vitamin c by injection, not by mouth.
This powder gives 4000 mg of vitamin C per serving, well above the 200 mg shown to work in studies and above the daily recommended limit, so members can take less. A pooled review of 29 placebo-controlled trials with 11,306 people found vitamin C did not make colds less common in the general public. Colds were about half as common in marathon runners, skiers and soldiers, and they were 8% shorter in adults and 14% shorter in children [1]. A review of 10 trials found cold severity was 15% lower with at least 1 gram daily, mainly for severe symptoms [2]. Another pooled analysis found a 4% lower risk of respiratory infections and 9% shorter symptoms [3]. In 1,444 army recruits taking 6,000 mg daily for 30 days, cold risk was 20% lower than with placebo [4]. However, a review of eight reviews concluded vitamin C does not prevent catching colds [5]. A trial in 674 marine recruits taking 2 grams daily found colds were no less common or shorter, though they were rated as less severe [6]. Overall, the benefit is modest and is mainly shorter or milder colds. Animal and cell studies are never counted.
See all 33 studies →Hide the studies
- Across 29 placebo-controlled trials with 11,306 people taking at least 0.2 g of vitamin C daily, colds were not less common in the general public but were about half as common in marathon runners, skiers and soldiers, and colds lasted 8% shorter in adults and 14% shorter in children.Vitamin C for preventing and treating the common cold.
- A review of eight systematic reviews covering 31 randomized trials concluded that taking vitamin C does not prevent people from catching a common cold.Does vitamin C prevent the common cold?
- In a pooled analysis of randomized trials in adults, vitamin C slightly lowered the risk of respiratory infections by 4% and shortened symptoms by 9%, with a stronger prevention effect in men and in middle-income countries.Effect of micronutrient supplements on influenza and other respiratory tract infections among adults: a systematic revie…
- In 10 placebo-controlled trials of healthy people taking at least 1 g of vitamin C daily, cold severity was 15% lower than with placebo, with a clear benefit on severe symptoms but not on mild ones.Vitamin C reduces the severity of common colds: a meta-analysis.
- Five small, low-quality trials with 2,655 children and adults gave vitamin C at 125 mg to 2 g daily, and the evidence was too weak to tell whether it prevents or treats pneumonia.Vitamin C supplementation for prevention and treatment of pneumonia.
- A review of 39 randomized trials of eight supplements, including vitamin C, in healthy people under stress found some signs of benefit but too many gaps to draw firm conclusions about immune protection.Select Dietary Supplement Ingredients for Preserving and Protecting the Immune System in Healthy Individuals: A Systemat…
- A review of 13 studies in healthy adults found alternative vitamin C forms often raised white blood cell vitamin C and were better tolerated, with one study showing fewer colds, but more research is needed to confirm immune benefits.Enhanced Vitamin C Delivery: A Systematic Literature Review Assessing the Efficacy and Safety of Alternative Supplement …
- In 1,444 army recruits taking 6,000 mg of vitamin C daily for 30 days, the risk of getting a common cold was 0.80 times that of those taking placebo.Vitamin C supplementation reduces the odds of developing a common cold in Republic of Korea Army recruits: randomised co…
- In 868 Navajo schoolchildren given vitamin C or placebo, there was no difference in how many got ill (133 vs 129), number of illness episodes, or illness length, though blood vitamin C levels were higher.Vitamin C and acute illness in Navajo schoolchildren.
- In a randomized trial of 688 adult women, 1 gram of vitamin C daily produced a small reduction in chest colds but no effect on simple colds.A randomized controlled trial of vitamin C in the prevention and amelioration of the common cold.
- In 674 marine recruits given 2 grams of vitamin C or placebo daily for eight weeks, colds were no less common or shorter, though the vitamin C group rated their colds as less severe.Vitamin C prophylaxis in marine recruits.
- In 595 critically ill surgical patients, early antioxidant supplementation with vitamin C and vitamin E did not significantly reduce lung complications compared with standard care, but it reduced multiple organ failure and shortened time on the ventilator and in intensive care.Randomized, prospective trial of antioxidant supplementation in critically ill surgical patients.
- In a 5-year double-blind trial of older Japanese adults, 500 mg of vitamin C daily cut the number of people with three or more colds, compared with 50 mg daily, but did not shorten or lessen the colds.Effect of vitamin C on common cold: randomized controlled trial.
- In 275 people with early COVID-19, a 10-day combination therapy including vitamin C was safe and well tolerated, but the study did not test whether it improved immune health.Read the study on PubMed (41693032) →
- In 311 National Institutes of Health employees taking 3 g of ascorbic acid daily for nine months (with extra doses at cold onset), the vitamin had at best a minor effect on the duration and severity of colds, and the results could be explained by a break in blinding.Ascorbic acid for the common cold. A prophylactic and therapeutic trial.
- In a double-blind study of 95 identical twin pairs over 100 days, vitamin C shortened cold episodes by about 19% but had no other significant effect compared with placebo.Vitamin C and the common cold: using identical twins as controls.
- In 120 stroke patients with swallowing difficulty, vitamin C stimulation added to routine swallowing training improved swallowing tests, nutrition markers and antibody levels compared with routine training alone.Effects of vitamin C stimulation on rehabilitation of dysphagia after stroke: a randomized trial.
- In 98 adults with mild to moderate coronavirus illness, 1000 mg of vitamin C daily for 14 days had no effect on symptom progression or quality of life compared with placebo.A Pilot of a Randomized Control Trial of Melatonin and Vitamin C for Mild-to-Moderate COVID-19.
- In 60 children prone to recurrent respiratory infections, a daily orange juice providing 70 mg of vitamin C was associated with a drop in infection episodes from about 6.75 to 2.62 per child.Beneficial therapeutic effects of vitamin C on recurrent respiratory tract infections in children: preliminary data.
- In 28 people recovering from COVID-19, a single 1000 mg dose of vitamin C reduced one type of immune-related reactive oxygen species by 45% but did not raise nitric oxide levels.A Plant-Based Dietary Supplement Exhibits Significant Effects on Markers of Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Immune R…
- In 24 patients receiving stem cell transplants for myeloma or lymphoma, high-dose vitamin C (20 g daily for 10 days, then 500 mg twice daily until day 100) was linked to rising natural killer and CD3 immune cell counts from day 30 to day 100 and fewer infections, compared with standard care alone.Effect of vitamin C on immune reconstitution after bone marrow transplantation.
- In 20 children having surgery, ascorbate before premedication did not change neutrophil mobility during anaesthesia or surgery, and no infections occurred.Neutrophil mobility during anaesthesia in children. A trial of ascorbate premedication.
- In 12 adults who exercised for about two hours in heat, 1500 mg of vitamin C daily for 12 days lowered the stress hormone cortisol after exercise, but did not change salivary antibody levels or cold-like symptoms compared with placebo.Vitamin C supplementation and salivary immune function following exercise-heat stress.
- In healthy adults aged 55 and older, a 12-week multivitamin and mineral supplement raised blood vitamin C and zinc levels but did not change measured immune function compared with placebo.The Effect of a Multivitamin and Mineral Supplement on Immune Function in Healthy Older Adults: A Double-Blind, Randomiz…
- In older adults, a 30-day course of a multi-ingredient supplement that also contained vitamin C lowered inflammatory blood markers and improved lymphocyte levels, though they did not reach the levels seen in younger people; the vitamin C dose was not stated.Use of Nutraceuticals in Elderly to Fight Inflammation and Immuno-Senescence: A Randomized Case-Control Study.
- In a randomized trial of ultramarathon runners and sedentary controls, taking 600 mg of vitamin C daily was linked to fewer upper airway infection symptoms in the two weeks after a race than placebo, with 33% of supplement takers developing symptoms versus 68% of placebo takers among runners.Vitamin C supplementation reduces the incidence of postrace symptoms of upper-respiratory-tract infection in ultramarath…
- In two trials of 8-9 year old children (172 and 642) given 1000 mg vitamin C daily, cold duration and severity seemed lower but cold incidence stayed the same or rose, and the total sick days were fewer only in the smaller pilot study.Vitamin C as a preventive medicine against common colds in children.
- In about 210 students (three groups of about 70) taking 1 gram daily for 15 weeks, the D-isoascorbic acid group had 34% fewer colds than the other two groups, which included the L-ascorbic acid group, so regular vitamin C showed no clear benefit.L-Ascorbic acid and D-isoascorbic acid in a common cold survey.
- In a large double-blind trial, 1 g of vitamin C daily gave a small, non-significant reduction in colds, but more people stayed illness-free and vitamin takers had about 30% fewer days of disability from illness than placebo takers.Vitamin C and the common cold: a double-blind trial.
- In older adults, 500 mg of vitamin C injected daily for one month improved T-lymphocyte response and skin test reaction compared with placebo, but did not change antibody levels.Effect of vitamin C supplements on cell-mediated immunity in old people.
- In a small feasibility study of people with a new common cold, 250 mg of vitamin C daily for 5 days was used only as the comparison arm against a warm humidified air treatment, and the abstract reports no benefit from vitamin C itself.Randomised controlled trial of rhinothermy for treatment of the common cold: a feasibility study.
- In a study of 433 women followed for a year, those with the highest dietary vitamin C intake were less likely to have a persistent human papillomavirus infection than those with the lowest intake.Dietary intake and risk of persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection: the Ludwig-McGill HPV Natural History Study.
- In hospital records of patients with upper respiratory tract infection, adding vitamin C injection to Xiyanping injection did not improve cure rates compared with Xiyanping alone.[Analysis of actual effects of combining xiyanping injection with vitamin C injection in treatment of upper respiratory …
Review Totals and Summary
Members Only10 reviews · 78% positive
**Overall picture:** Buyers are mostly happy with the vitamin C crystal powder. Many take it daily and credit it with fewer colds, healthier gums and better general wellbeing. The few complaints are about how well it dissolves and the package size. Reviews of other forms (gummies, capsules, tablets sold alongside) were left out, and a few reviews here are for NOW-brand crystals sold by other stores, so they are treated as separate products where noted. **What buyers say it did for them:** The most common claim is fewer colds and less flu. One says "been using this every morning for years & cant remember last time we had a cold/flu." Another uses it at the first sign of illness: "As soon as I feel something coming I zap it." A traveler says that on a three-week retreat she stayed well while "almost all the other people in the retreat got sick." Others report better skin, more energy ("I feel so rejuvenated after taking this each day") and a cleared-up stubborn cough, though that reviewer took the powder with tablets. Gum health comes up too: one reviewer brushes with the crystals and uses them in a water flosser, and says their dentist is amazed. These are personal anecdotes, not measured results. **What buyers complain about:** Complaints are few. One reviewer of a NOW-brand crystal product says "these crystals don't really dissolve and sink to the bottom." Another, also on a NOW listing, warns that the container is "only 8 ounces at 1 pound price." A Canadian customer is disappointed the powder can't be bought in Canada. Written feedback on the TriVita page itself shows no negative experience. **Taste, texture and form:** Reports are mostly good. One reviewer says it "mixes easily, tastes great, and is gentle on my stomach." Another says it "doesn't make me run to the bathroom, taken in this form." Another says it is easy to mix into juice. Some people use the unflavored version stirred into water, and others mention an orange flavor. The one dissolving complaint is about a different brand's crystals. A reviewer who likes the crystal form says it is absorbed faster, which is their belief rather than something shown here. **Value for money:** Opinions differ by listing. One reviewer calls it a "great price" and another "excellent price", both on NOW listings. The one pricing complaint is about size: eight ounces sold at a pound's price. The TriVita page summary reports no price complaints. Check the weight you are getting against the price before buying. **Who it seems to suit and who it did not:** It suits people who want a daily vitamin C routine, often every morning for years, and who like a powder they can stir into water or juice. Several long-term users (one since 1999) and people who feel the crystal form is gentler on the stomach are the happiest. Some also take the tablets alongside. It suited less well the reviewer who wanted crystals that dissolve fully in a drink, the buyer who misjudged the quantity, and shoppers in Canada, where one reviewer says it is unavailable. One new user has too little experience to judge.
Biohacker Summary
Members Only0 of 10 recommend it
Most of the panel recommends or uses vitamin C, and the main reasons are collagen, skin, and immune support. Several of them pair it with collagen, for joints, skin, and connective tissue, with one suggesting taking both about an hour before a workout. Doses came up rarely: one takes an extra gram a day, another takes 250 milligrams, and a third cites 500 milligrams to 1 gram in orthopedic settings. Forms mentioned include whole foods like citrus, kiwi, and bell peppers, a liquid liposomal version, and topical serums for skin. On the cautious side, one panelist said the best dose is an open question and that high doses might blunt the benefits of exercise, and another stopped using a vitamin C serum because of its smell and noted that topical use reaches far higher skin levels than eating it.
See all 10 biohackers →Hide the biohackers
Dr. Eric Berg · Vitamin C · warns
- Warns against generic multivitamins, stating they are often full of fillers and synthetics.
- Mentions that bleeding or swollen gums point to vitamin C deficiency, and sugar competes with it directly, reducing absorption.
- Mentions that lemon is loaded with vitamin C, and when combined with coffee, vitamin C significantly increases the bioavailability of antioxidants in the coffee.
- Dr. Berg states that Vitamin C helps fight biofilms and is essential for making collagen in gums, teeth, and capillaries.
- Recommends Vitamin C as a cofactor, especially for collagen.
- States that high doses of vitamin C, like 2 to 4 grams, can greatly reduce inflammation and support the immune system.
- Highly recommends taking natural food vitamin C, about 500 mg, at the first sign of a cold.
- Recommends consuming foods high in vitamin C to block the effects of grains.
- Recommends ensuring that collagen supplements come with vitamin C.
- Vitamin C works as an antioxidant that supports skin and artery health.
Thomas DeLauer · Vitamin C · recommends
- Recommends whole food vitamin C, found in kiwi fruit, citrus, and bell peppers, to help clear uric acid by competing at kidney transporters, preventing reabsorption.
- Recommends taking vitamin C along with collagen about an hour before a workout for connective tissue benefits.
- Uses vitamin C as part of their immunity duo, stating it is important for boosting the immune system, especially during cold and flu season.
- Recommends consuming vitamin C to aid in NADPH recycling, which is necessary for glutathione to be reused after neutralizing oxidative stress.
- Takes Purity's liquid liposomal vitamin C for immune support and overall wellness, finding it easy to add to water, juice, or take straight up due to its good taste.
- Compares the Vitamin C content of oranges (53mg) to guava (228mg), noting guava has 4x more.
- States that collagen synthesis is vitamin C dependent, in the context of glowing skin.
- Recommends Vitamin C for sleep, noting that intake in the range of 125 to 200 mg per day is associated with a lower risk of sleep disorders and sleep apnea, with the benefit plateauing beyond this range.
- Recommends consuming a little bit of vitamin C, such as a couple of berries or kiwi, along with flavanol-rich cocoa to help the delicate flavanols hold up and prevent oxidation in the gut.
- Explains that vitamin C improves the ability of neutrophils to engulf bacterial infections, and that they have a greater ability to engulf larger infections.
Dave Asprey · Vitamin C · neutral
- Recounts a doctor telling him in his 20s that vitamin C would kill him.
- Recommends taking vitamin C for better skin health.
- States that currently, he is only taking vitamin C and vitamin D.
- Dave Asprey reflects on how new research clarifies the mechanism behind IV vitamin C's anti-cancer effect, vindicating a decades-old idea that was dismissed for the wrong reasons.
- Notes that plain Vitamin C isn't enough and that most people never think to check for a specific ingredient that makes it work.
- Dave Asprey recommends taking maybe a gram of vitamin C a day in divided doses, noting that plasma levels peak around 250 milligrams twice a day.
- Recommends Qualia Vitamin C Plus, highlighting its combination of seven forms of vitamin C with 250 mg of citrus bioflavonoids, which helps with absorption and use for building collagen and a strong immune system.
- Warns that taking too much vitamin C can raise oxalate levels, emphasizing that everything has risk and reward.
- Recommends Vitamin C as the real biological fix for deep focus issues, explaining how the brain hoards it at levels 100 times higher than blood and how to bypass the blood-brain barrier.
- States that Ensure is like SlimFast but worse, and that its ingredients, including synthetic vitamins, guar gum, maltodextrin, high fructose corn syrup, and seed oils, are disgusting and should not be given to sick or well people.
Ben Greenfield · Vitamin C · recommends
- States that vitamin C is extremely important for collagen turnover and cites orthopedic data showing that 500 mg to 1 g of vitamin C can reduce the rate of complex regional pain in total knee replacements and wrist fractures.
- Mentions vitamin C as part of a bare-minimum protocol.
- Notes that while vitamin C has significant value, the optimal dose is a vexed question, and high doses might not always be beneficial, potentially blunting the hormetic effects of exercise.
- Notes that IV vitamin C has been used for decades for cancer patients with almost no standardization and that he receives many questions about its effectiveness and combination with chemo.
- Recommends Vitamin C for skin repair post-tattoo.
- Does not agree that ascorbic acid is vitamin C, comparing it to calling chaff wheat, and notes that it is made from genetically modified cornstarch or corn syrup byproducts using solvents.
- Warns against ascorbic acid, stating that it does not cure scurvy and that the world has been led astray by the deception around it versus the whole food vitamin C complex.
- Warns against taking 1,000 mg of vitamin C immediately after a workout for individuals under 50, as it can dull the body's natural adaptation signal.
- Warns that using high-dose antioxidants like vitamin C directly before or after a hyperbaric session is not a great idea, as it could impair some of the effects by reducing reactive oxygen species.
- Warns that taking a whole bunch of antioxidants like vitamin C after a workout can suppress the body's inflammatory response, which is necessary for benefits like mitochondrial proliferation and satellite cell generation for new muscle.
Siim Land · Vitamin C · recommends
- Recommends taking vitamin C with collagen to support joint collagen synthesis.
- States that vitamin C is needed for initiating collagen synthesis and that higher vitamin C intake appears to increase vitamin C content in the skin.
- Lists sauerkraut and fruit as sources of Vitamin C.
- Notes that Vitamin C is one of several supplements with human evidence.
- Notes that researchers found vitamin C alleviates ferro-aging, a process of iron overload and lipid peroxidation that drives aging, and that it directly inhibited ACSL4, a protein driving ferro-aging.
- States that Vitamin C has a central role in aging and longevity, and that in monkeys, oral vitamin C slowed ovarian aging during a 3.3-year study.
- States that vitamin C is one of the most important vitamins for staying healthy and aging well, and that intakes of 200 to 400 mg a day from food or supplements largely saturates plasma and neutrophils in most healthy adults. He also recommends spreading out the vitamin C across the day to avoid oversaturation.
- Mentions vitamin C in comparison to topical melatonin for oxidative defense, stating that melatonin would compete but is not as broadly validated clinically.
- Was found to be vitamin C deficient by True Health and Mayo Clinic tests, and now addresses this by eating one extra kiwi fruit daily.
- States that the biggest evidence for multivitamin is that it improves cognition and enhances episodic memory in elderly people, who tend to have worse diets and are more likely to be deficient.
Dr. Mark Hyman · Vitamin C · recommends
- Recommends vitamin C as a basic supplement during detoxification to help with inflammation and detoxification.
- Dr. Hyman mentions vitamin C as an advanced therapy for skin repair.
- Mentions topical vitamin C as an antioxidant that can help skin with aging.
- Mentions that what they do when a cold comes on is not just vitamin C.
- Recommends ensuring adequate vitamin C intake on a regular basis for immune support, stating it's important for healthy immune function despite mixed data on its effectiveness for colds.
- Mentions that vitamin C was the very first vitamin discovered, isolated, and synthesized in 1932, and its deficiency caused scurvy.
- Recommends nutrient-dense foods rich in vitamin C, such as guavas and parsley, to reduce inflammation.
- Used intravenous vitamin C cocktails to help him detoxify and recover from chronic fatigue.
- Recommends vitamin C for immune system support and modulation.
- Relies on Big Bold Health's HTB Immune Energy Chews, which deliver 1000mg of sprouted Himalayan tardy buckwheat, along with vitamin C, D, magnesium, and zinc, to support immune balance, resilience, energy, and focus.
Dr. Rhonda Patrick · Vitamin C · neutral
- Lutein and zeaxanthin can also be obtained from certain multivitamins.
- Recommends nutrients like vitamin C for men to prioritize sperm mitochondrial health.
- Dr. Rhonda Patrick's daughter chugs an Emergency fizzy drink in the morning to ensure she gets some vitamin C and micronutrients before school.
- Choosing a multivitamin that includes lutein and zeaxanthin ensures you get meaningful amounts every day.
- Notes that ~35% of Americans are low in vitamin C.
- Recommends increasing vitamin C intake if concerned about skin aging, noting it is an essential cofactor for collagen synthesis.
- Suggests avoiding a multivitamin if it contains biotin before a testosterone blood test to prevent confounding results.
- Multiple randomized controlled trials show older adults taking a standard multivitamin (like Centrum Silver) had measurable improvements in processing speed, cognition, and episodic memory.
- Currently takes the Pure Encapsulations O.N.E Multivitamin.
- Rhonda's current supplement routine includes Vitamin C.
Andrew Huberman · Vitamin C · uses
- Takes a multivitamin every day for longevity.
- Recommends AG1, a vitamin, mineral, and probiotic drink, and notes that for a limited time, a subscription comes with additional supplements.
- Takes an extra gram of vitamin C a day for its effects on immunity and potential synergy with collagen.
- Found the Met RX Big 100 Bar to be 'magic' on the trail because it's a hunk of calories with protein and fortified with vitamins and minerals, despite being something they would never eat in normal life.
- Started taking AG1 in 2012 and still takes it every single day to ensure he meets his quota for daily vitamins and minerals and to support gut health, which is critical for proper brain function, immune system, and neurotransmitter production.
- Has been taking AG1 daily since 2012 because it is the highest quality and most complete foundational nutritional supplement, ensuring he gets all necessary vitamins, minerals, and micronutrients for daily health.
- Has been drinking AG1 since 2012, finding it difficult to get enough vitamins, minerals, micronutrients, and adaptogens from diet alone. He finds that taking AG1 daily improves all aspects of his health, including physical and mental health, performance, recovery from exercise, and immune system strength, and also notices more mental clarity and energy.
- Recommends AG1 as the highest quality and most complete foundational nutritional supplement, containing vitamins, minerals, probiotics, prebiotics, and adaptogens to cover dietary gaps and support a demanding life.
- States that AG1 is the highest quality and most complete foundational nutritional supplement available, containing vitamins, minerals, probiotics, prebiotics, and adaptogens, and that he has been taking it daily since 2012, often twice a day, to bolster his energy, immune system, and gut microbiome.
- Huberman mentions that vitamin C seems to help with the absorption or utilization of collagen protein.
Peter Attia · Vitamin C · stopped
- Recommends vitamin C as an important molecule for skin, noting its role as a precursor for collagen synthesis, a powerful antioxidant, and a regulator of complexion for even skin tone.
- Tried a vitamin C serum mixed with ferulic acid but stopped using it because she hated the smell. She notes that topical application of vitamin C far exceeds the levels achievable by ingestion for skin benefits.
- States that vitamin C deficiency is associated with an elevated risk of cataract, but supplementation to supranormal levels has not been shown to protect against cataract formation.
- Mentions the elimination of scurvy through the work of James Lind and the eventual understanding that it was due to vitamin C, initially thought to be just citrus.
- Notes that while vitamin C deficiency is associated with an elevated risk of cataract, supplementation to supranormal levels has been conclusively shown not to protect against cataract formation.
- Mentions that a survey of doctors showed they recommend Vitamin C for COVID-19, but notes there is no real evidence behind it.
- Expresses skepticism about 'panacea treatments' for cancer, specifically mentioning a 'twenty thousand dollars of vitamin C' treatment, implying it's an example of something he's 'squirrely' about due to cost and unproven claims.
- Asks if vitamin C matters for immune function, suggesting a need for a definitive study.
- Warns against the "total nonsense" of taking excessive amounts of vitamin C, especially in specific forms like liposomal vitamin C, for immunity, stating that it is idiotic and potentially dangerous to think it will offer immunity.
- Would love to see more research done on mega dose intravenous vitamin C for viral infections, noting some interesting but not followed-through research from the 1960s.
Bryan Johnson · Vitamin C · neutral
- Uses Vitamin C as an example of how it would be great if people knew that when they took it, it had a measurable amount and wasn't polluted, which is what Brian ensures with his products.
- Applies vitamin C after showering.
- Takes 250 milligrams of Vitamin C.
- Recommends Vitamin C for skin health, noting it's good to pair with collagen peptides and is included in the Blueprint stack.
- Bryan Johnson takes Vitamin C daily as part of his Longevity Mix, which is an antioxidant-rich essential vitamin that supports immune function and metabolic energy.
- He uses Vitamin C, typically in a serum, in the morning for skin health.
RAL Summary
Members OnlyTier 4 for Immune Health
The review summary quotes written reviews even though none could be read, and several of the quoted reviews are for NOW-brand vitamin C crystals sold by other stores, not this TriVita product. Its reviews are set aside, so it is graded on its studies alone. Human studies support Vitamin C (10 of 33 human studies showed an improvement), but there are not yet enough reviews to confirm it (0).
- Emerging: not enough evidence to rank higher yet.
Where the evidence disagrees: 13 of the 33 human studies found no effect.
More Details
Members OnlyBody systems · Combine with · Possible side effects
Body systems: Immune system, Respiratory system
Combine with: To support immune function, pair vitamin C with zinc, vitamin D3 with K2, and elderberry or quercetin, which work well with vitamin C for immune resilience. Vitamin E and glutathione or NAC can support the antioxidant network and help regenerate oxidized vitamin C. If the goal is still circulation, add L-citrulline or L-arginine, beetroot extract, and magnesium for nitric oxide production, plus omega-3 fish oil for vascular health. Vitamin C also helps collagen formation when taken with collagen peptides and supports iron absorption when taken with iron, if iron is needed. Check with a healthcare provider before combining with meds or other medications, and be aware that high doses of vitamin C may cause stomach upset or affect kidney stone risk.
Possible side effects: No major side effects reported. The 4000 mg serving is above the daily recommended limit, so members may prefer a smaller amount.
Supplement Facts
Vitamin C 4000 mg
| Vitamin C | 4,000 mg |
Directions: Suggested Use: Adults and children over the age of 10, take 1/4 to 1 teaspoon daily, with or without meals. Stir into water, fruit juice or a beverage of choice.
Label source: NIH label database · Report a label change
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Graded November 10, 2026 by the Reverse Age Lab evidence engine, from human studies, real reviews and our biohacker panel. How we grade. Is this medical advice? No. Rala organizes the published evidence; go over any change with your doctor, especially if you take meds.
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