Cold is a very common viral infection that affects the upper respiratory tract. It is usually less serious in children than in adults, but can still cause a great deal of discomfort. Symptoms include runny nose, sneezing, coughing, and fever. 

Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for good health. It is found in many foods, especially citrus fruits. Vitamin C is important for the proper development and function of many parts of the body, including the skin, blood vessels, and bones. 

It also helps the body absorb iron from food. A child with a cold may benefit from taking vitamin C supplements. The recommended dose of vitamin C for a child is based on the child’s age and weight.

Vitamin C Dosage for a Child With Cold

The recommended dose of vitamin C for a child with a cold is based on the child’s age and weight. For children aged 0-1 year, the recommended dose is 50-55 mg per day.

For children aged 1-4 years, the recommended dose is 60mg, 4-7 years is 70mg, 7-10 years is 80 mg, 10-13 yrs is 90mg and 13-15 years is 100mg.

This is according to ChemistryViews.

Under dosage or overdosage can have side effects. Therefore, it is always best to start with the lower dosage and increase it gradually as needed.

Most Vitamin C in stores will provide a recommended dosage which may vary from 1-3 tablets/capsules.

Health Benefits of Vitamin C for Children

i. Helps in Absorption of Iron

Vitamin C is important for the absorption of iron from food. Iron is essential for the proper development and function of many parts of the body, including the brain. a child with a cold may benefit from taking these vitamin supplements. Without enough iron, a child may develop anemia, which can cause fatigue and other problems.

ii. Boosts the Immune System

The immune system of a child is still developing and may not be as strong as that of an adult. This vitamin can help to boost the immune system and protect the child from infections. If a child is taking vitamin C supplements, his or her immunity will be increased and the risk of developing a cold or other infection will be reduced.

iii. Reduces the Severity and Duration of Colds

Vitamin C has been shown to reduce the severity and duration of colds. It can also help to reduce the symptoms of a cold, such as sneezing, coughing, and fever. This is because it helps to boost the immune system and fight off infection.

iv. Prevents Respiratory Infections

This vitamin has been shown to prevent respiratory infections, such as pneumonia and bronchitis. This is because vitamin C helps to boost the immune system and fight off infection.

v. Reduces Inflammation

This vitamin is an antioxidant that helps to reduce inflammation. This can help to reduce the symptoms of a cold, such as fever and sore throat. The anti-inflammatory properties of vitamin C can also help to reduce the severity of asthma attacks.

vi. Improves Wound Healing

If your child has a cold, this vitamin will help to boost the immune system and fight off the infection. In addition, vitamin C helps to improve wound healing. This is because vitamin C helps to form collagen, which is a key component of skin and connective tissue. The wound may be a result of cold sores, cuts, or scrapes.

vii. Improves Brain Function

When it comes to children, this vitamin is important for the proper development and function of the brain. This is because vitamin C helps to form neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that transmit signals in the brain. Neurotransmitters are important for learning and memory. Without proper brain function, a child may have difficulty in school.

viii. Reduces the Risk of Asthma Attacks

Although asthma is not very common in children, it can be a serious condition. Vitamin C has been shown to reduce the severity of asthma attacks. This is because vitamin C is an antioxidant and helps to reduce inflammation. Asthma is always a result of inflammation in the airways.

ix. Protects Against Cancer

Vitamin C has been shown to protect cells from damage and help to repair them. This can help to reduce the risk of cancer. The vitamin is also an antioxidant that helps to scavenge harmful toxins and free radicals. These toxins can damage DNA and lead to cancer.

x. Enhances Detoxification

This vitamin helps the body eliminate toxins and waste products. This is because it is involved in the process of detoxification. When the body eliminates toxins, it is able to function more efficiently. When it comes to cold in children, the vitamin can help to flush out the toxins and waste products that have accumulated in the body.

Side Effects of Vitamin C for Children

Although vitamin C is safe for most children, there are some side effects that may occur. These side effects are usually mild and include:

i. Diarrhea

Vitamin C can cause diarrhea in some children. This is because it can act as a laxative and cause the body to produce more watery stools. If your child has diarrhea, he or she should drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.

ii. Nausea

Some children may experience nausea when taking these vitamin supplements. This is usually because of stomach upset. Nausea should go away after a few days. If it does not, you should contact your child’s doctor.

iii. Headache

Headache is another side effect that may occur in some children. This is usually because of the increase in blood flow that occurs when taking this vitamin. If your child has a headache, he or she should drink plenty of fluids and rest.

iv. Fatigue

Fatigue is a result of the body’s increased need for energy when taking this vitamin. This is because the vitamin helps to increase metabolism. If your child feels tired, he or she should rest and drink plenty of fluids.

Other side effects that may occur include:

• Muscle weakness
• Joint pain
• Skin rash

If any of these side effects occur, you should contact your child’s doctor.

Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that is found in many fruits and vegetables. It is important for the proper function of the immune system and helps to fight off infection. 

The vitamin has also been shown to reduce the severity of asthma attacks, protect cells from damage, and help to detoxify the body. 

Although it is safe for most children, there are some side effects that may occur. These side effects are usually mild and include diarrhea, nausea, headache, and fatigue. 

If any of these side effects occur, you should contact your child’s doctor.