Vitamin C has been praised as a cold-fighting, immune-boosting, health miracle. But is it possible to get too much of a good thing? 

The Need for Vitamin C

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is an essential nutrient that helps grow and repair tissue and bone. It also helps prevent diseases such as scurvy, which can be caused by a vitamin C deficiency. 

The body requires vitamin C to help absorb iron, another essential nutrient. vitamin C improves cardiovascular health and aids in fighting diseases like cancer and asthma. 

Many supplement companies and health experts praise vitamin C for fighting the common cold. Over-the-counter cold remedies like throat lozenges and cough syrups often are enhanced with vitamin C to help stave off and combat colds. However, it's inconclusive whether vitamin C can benefit the immune health of most people.