if you're taking a regular over-the-counter multivitamin supplement you probably will suffer no harm from doubling up occasionally. however doing so won't help your cold. the common cold is caused by a virus. there currently is no effective treatment for the common cold virus. vitamins do not treat this virus. if vitamins could cure the common cold none of us would ever be sick! the truth is if you eat a well-balanced diet you should be able to obtain most of the minimum daily requirement of vitamins and minerals through food. vitamins and minerals are important for cell functioning. if a person becomes deficient in a particular vitamin or mineral it can cause certain conditions (such as scurvy for those deficient in vitamin c). however these conditions are rare in the modern world. many people believe taking massive doses of vitamin c or zinc at the first sign of a cold will minimize the symptoms or shorten the course of the cold. there is no scientific evidence to prove this though. the common cold lasts from 5-10 days if you don't treat it and about 5-10 days if you do treat it. <positive_smiley> the best defense against the common cold is this: handwashing. during cold season wash and dry your hands frequently and avoid touching your eyes nose or mouth. wishing you well!
is it okay to double your vitamins when you are sick? . i have a cold and my doctor said it is okay to double my vitamins at times. i want to know if i can and will it help.