Want to Protect Your Kids from Respiratory Infections? Try Vitamin C.

Kids are especially susceptible to respiratory infections. Tons of studies have established vitamin C’s ability to protect against respiratory infections in adults. But not much research has been done on vitamin C for kids. Until now.

The common cold, sore throat, sinusitis, pneumonia and bronchitis are all respiratory infections. Because kids have immature immune systems, they are especially susceptible. 14% of all deaths in kids under 5 are due to pneumonia.

This new study suggests that maintaining optimal levels of vitamin C can help.

The large study included 1,344 young people between the ages of 6 and 19. The results showed that higher levels of vitamin C were associated with a lower risk of respiratory infection. Compared to the group with the lowest levels of vitamin C, those with the highest had a significant 50% lower risk of respiratory infection.

The researchers conclude that the results “underscore the significance of maintaining optimal vitamin C levels.” They say the results “suggest that vitamin C supplementation may be potentially used for the prevention and treatment of RIs among children and adolescents.”

Front Nutr. 2025 Jun 5;12:1601218.

While whole-food sources of vitamin C should be the foundation, supplements can be a helpful way to support healthy vitamin C levels when needed. At Pilgrim’s Market, you'll find a variety of vitamin C-rich foods and high-quality supplements to help support your family's wellness year-round.