Vitamin C Article Differences Essay

Total Length: 672 words ( 2 double-spaced pages)

Total Sources: 3

Page 1 of 2

The abundance of pseudo-scientific literature on the Internet often obscures the kernels of truth about nutritional supplements. For example, research does substantiate the role and importance of vitamin C in promoting optimal immune system health. For this exercise, I presented the question, “Does Vitamin C actually boost my immune system? If so, how or why?” The reason why I chose this question is because I have been taking Vitamin C, and do not know if it is worth the investment in the supplements. I want to know if vitamin C’s role in boosting the immune system is scientifically valid or a spurious claim made by those interested in selling me their brand of supplements.

Wintergerst, Maggini & Hornig (2006) present the results of a review of literature on Vitamin C, published in a peer-reviewed journal. The Wintergerst, Maggini & Hornig (2006) study is not an experimental research but it is a review of literature detailing the physiological effects and functions of vitamin C, such as its impact on cellular growth, cellular differentiation, and anti-oxidation. Vitamin C serves as an “electron donor” and other immune functions (Wintergerst, Maggini & Hornig, 2006, p. 87). Likewise, vitamin C is integral for the endothelial and leukocyte functions (Wintergerst, Maggini & Hornig, 2006, p. 87). The authors conclude that adequate intake of vitamin C is necessary for maintaining health.


Although not an experimental study, the Wintergerst, Maggini & Hornig (2006) research is credible because it is peer-reviewed and subtantiated by abundant references to the scientific literature including experimental studies and meta-analyses. On the other hand, an online store selling vitamin supplements called Well Wisdom also offers testimonials about the efficacy of Vitamin C on boosting immune system health. The article in the Well Wisdom store actually admits that vitamin C does not prevent colds, but that it “will definitely help to heal your cold when it sets in,” a statement that is not supported by any references to the scientific literature. Instead, the authors provide a hyperlink to other articles on the website, which has a commercial purpose. The authors also write about how Vitamin C improves skin health, prevents cardiovascular disease, and even fights cancer—a strong and misleading claim.

Both the Wintergerst, Maggini & Hornig (2006) and the Well Wisdom articles could potentially be biased, given that the authors of peer-reviewed article do disclose their funding from the Bayer Corporation’s consumer….....

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"Vitamin C Article Differences", 28 October 2017, Accessed.26 June. 2024,
https://www.aceyourpaper.com/essays/vitamin-c-article-differences-2166389