Can You Take Probiotics And Vitamin C Together?

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble nutrient with antioxidant properties that is essential for various bodily functions, including collagen formation, immune support, and wound healing.

Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when consumed in adequate amounts, confer health benefits by positively influencing the gut's microbial balance and supporting various aspects of well-being.

You can take Vitamin C and Probiotics together without any problems because Vitamin C doesn't kill probiotics. Vitamin C has been shown in a study to lead to favorable shifts in gut probiotic after two weeks of supplementation. 

What Is Vitamin C?

Vitamin C, also referred to as L-ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble nutrient naturally found in various foods. It is important for numerous bodily functions. Vitamin C aids in the absorption of non-heme iron from plant sources and plays a role in forming blood vessels, cartilage, muscles, and collagen in bones. It's crucial for maintaining healthy cells and has antioxidant properties that bolster the immune system. This essential vitamin is found in citrus fruits, as well as other fruits and vegetables. Cooking and high heat exposure can diminish Vitamin C content according to Harvard.

Can You Take Probiotics And Vitamin C Together?

Yes, you can take probiotics and vitamin c together according to research. The combination of both showed significant benefits in preventing upper respiratory tract infections according to a 2015 study authored by I Garaiova. The study involved children aged 3-6 years, with those receiving the probiotic andvitamin C combination experiencing a 33% reduction in URTI incidence rate, a decrease in the number of days with URTI symptoms, and a 30% reduction in absenteeism from preschool.

Does Vitamin C Kill Probiotics?

Vitamin C does not kill probiotics but on the contrary can modulate growth of probiotic bacteria. Supplementation with high-dose vitamin C for two weeks led to favorable shifts in the composition of gut microbiota in healthy individuals according to a 20121 study authored by AT Otten. The study involved 14 participants, and the results indicated an increase in the abundance of Lachnospiraceae bacteria along with decreases in Bacteroidetes, Enterococci, and Gemmiger formicilis. Trends were also observed for shifts in Blautia and Streptococcus thermophilus.