Back-to-school, winter ills and chills, daycare bugs — immune support is top of mind for many Kiwi families. When one child feels poorly, it often feels like the whole household follows. One supplement you’re almost guaranteed to find in the cupboard of most New Zealanders is vitamin C for families.
This well-known nutrient has been used for decades to support healthy immune function. It also plays an important role in skin and connective tissue health and overall wellbeing. During times when ills and chills are prevalent, or when stress and physical activity increase immune demands, vitamin C can be particularly supportive.
What Is Vitamin C & Why Do We Need It?
Vitamin C is also known as ascorbic acid. This form is naturally acidic, which means some people with sensitive stomachs may find it uncomfortable in larger amounts.
There are other forms of vitamin C known as “buffered” vitamin C. This refers to vitamin C combined with mineral salts to reduce acidity and make it gentler on digestion, resulting in a form closer to neutral pH.
Forms you may see on supplement labels include:
- Sodium ascorbate (eg: vitamin C bound to sodium)
- Calcium ascorbate
- Magnesium ascorbate
- Potassium ascorbate
Often, products contain a combination of ascorbic acid and mineral ascorbates.
Buffered forms may be preferable for:
- Children
- Individuals prone to reflux or gastric sensitivity
- Those taking higher amounts
- Elderly individuals
- Anyone who finds ascorbic acid irritating
Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin, and we must obtain it from our diet because we cannot produce it ourselves or store large amounts.
Foods naturally rich in vitamin C include:
- 柑橘类水果
- Kiwifruit
- Berries
- Capsicum
- 西兰花
Vitamin C supports a healthy immune system and immune cell function. It also:
- Supports collagen formation (skin, gums and connective tissue)
- Acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect cells from free radical damage
- Supports iron absorption
- Supports normal adrenal gland function, particularly during times of stress
Vitamin C & Children’s Immune Health
Our busy kids are in and out of school, daycare, and activities, and exposed to many different bugs throughout the day. Add in their still-developing immune systems, and you may have a recipe for time off school — and work. While this exposure plays an important role in long-term immune development, there are times when children may benefit from extra nutritional support.
During winter, nutrient demands may increase as seasonal bugs circulate more easily. Fussy eating habits can also mean children miss out on essential nutrients — as the broccoli is left on the side of the plate or quietly slipped to the dog under the table. Vitamin C supports immune defences and healthy skin and mucosal barriers (such as the nasal passages), which act as a first line of defence. Because children do not store large amounts of vitamin C, consistent intake from food — and supplementation where appropriate — is important.
Vitamin C When You’re Feeling Run Down
It often starts with a tickly throat, a blocked nose or unusual tiredness — and you know something may be brewing. Reaching for vitamin C is common practice, as it plays an important role in supporting immune cell function.
During periods of immune stress, the body’s requirement for vitamin C may increase. When appetite is reduced and meals are less balanced than usual, supplementation can help support adequate intake alongside what you’re able to eat.
Many adults choose to take a daily vitamin C supplement as part of their general wellbeing routine. During times of increased immune demand, some people may choose to increase their intake for short periods, provided they follow product directions and individual tolerance.
Always use as directed and seek advice from a healthcare professional if you are unsure what amount is appropriate for you or your family.
Viralex® Vitamin C Extra Strength
Viralex Vitamin C Extra Strength is a high-strength immune support powder designed for use during times of immune challenge. It provides 3000mg of vitamin C per serving in a digestion-friendly form, along with vitamin D3 and zinc to support all-round immune health.
The natural orange-flavoured powder mixes easily into water, juice or smoothies and is suitable for adults and children 9 years and over.
Viralex® Kids Vitamin C Plus
Viralex Kids Vitamin C Plus is a comprehensive formula designed specifically for children. It combines vitamin C with age-appropriate levels of zinc, echinacea and elderberry to support immune health.
The natural berry-flavoured chewable tablets are suitable for children 2 years and over and can be used year-round to help support healthy immune function.
A Note About Tolerance
Vitamin C tolerance can vary from person to person. Taking smaller divided doses across the day may help support digestive comfort.
Very high intakes may cause temporary digestive upset in some individuals. If this occurs, simply reduce the amount or discontinue use for the time being.
For children, always follow the age-appropriate dosage instructions on the product label. If you are considering higher amounts or longer-term use, consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised advice.
As with all supplements, individual needs vary, so a “start low and adjust if needed” approach is sensible.
Practical Tips for Supporting Family Immune Health
We all have the best intentions to eat well, but life gets busy. Small daily habits can make a meaningful difference:
- Add kiwifruit to lunchboxes
- Blend berries into smoothies
- Include raw colourful vegetables at dinner
- Keep vitamin C on hand during winter
- Prioritise sleep and hydration
Vitamin C is a simple, essential nutrient that plays an important role in immune health for the whole family. From everyday wellbeing to times of increased immune demand, ensuring consistent intake — through diet and supplementation where appropriate — can help support resilience year-round.
Explore our vitamin C range designed to support the whole family.
Always read the label and use as directed. If symptoms persist see your healthcare professional. Vitamins are supplementary to a balanced diet. Good Health Auckland
TAPS PP5420
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