Does vitamin C boost immunity?

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that effectively combats free radicals, thereby reducing oxidative denaturation of the body's antigen molecules and enhancing resistance to infectious diseases. Research has shown that vitamin C can promote immune responses, thus boosting the body's immunity. One study reported that vitamin C helps the body secrete antigen-antibody complexes, and large amounts of vitamin C are present in immune cells, where it activates these cells and enhances the body's defense against viruses and other harmful foreign substances. In addition, vitamin C promotes the phagocytic and pathogen-killing capabilities of white blood cells—specifically macrophages involved in anti-infection responses—further strengthening the immune system. In summary, vitamin C effectively enhances human immunity by promoting antigen-antibody secretion, activating immune cells, and improving the pathogen-killing ability of macrophages. These mechanisms collectively increase the body’s resistance to harmful external agents and boost overall immunity. Therefore, adequate intake of vitamin C is an important strategy for enhancing immune function.