The health benefits of larger (megadosing) daily intake of vitamins remains unclear. Many people take larger doses of antioxidants such as Vitamin C to reduce the risk of disease. It important to understand that similar to medications, interactions can occur between vitamins and minerals. Further research is needed before to fully understand the health risks and benefits. Some people believe that taking vitamin C will prevent the common cold. This remains controversial as some research indicates the taking may shorten the duration of the cold there is little evidence to support that vitamin C will prevent colds.

  • Vitamin C can increase iron absorption
  • Larger doses of Vitamin C can decease absorption of vitamin B12 and availability of copper

The Canada Food Guide recommends obtaining daily recommended doses of vitamins from nutritional foods rather than supplements.