Emergen-C for Immune Support: Does It Really Work?

Emergen-C, a company now owned by Pfizer, produces a wide variety of dietary supplements that promote an enhanced immune support formula. Many people enjoy their natural fruit flavors and use them for everyday immune support. Some people take Emergen-C for added immune system support during flu season. However, there is public debate as to whether Emergen-C really works. In this article, we explore what is in Emergen-C products and the evidence behind the claims of immune support.

What is Emergen-C?

Emergen-C is a brand of dietary supplements, commonly containing nutrients to boost your immune function and enhance energy naturally. 

Emergen-C comes in a wide variety of products including packets for a powdered drink, gummies, and chewables. The powdered products mix in real fruit flavors such as super orange and pink lemonade. It is recommended to mix the powder with 4-6 ounces of water to make a fizzy drink. For a lighter flavor, you can mix the powder with more water to reduce the concentration.

Taking Emergen-C can be a delicious and convenient way to meet your wellness goals. However, it is important to know what is in these special formulas and to consult with a healthcare provider prior to consuming them.

What are the ingredients in Emergen-C?

Each Emergen-C product contains a mix of antioxidants, B vitamins, electrolytes, Vitamin D, Betavia, and other nutrients. Each unique product may contain a different dose of these ingredients, so it is important to review the label of supplement facts with your doctor before choosing a specific product. Ingredients in Emergen-C original formula include:

• 1,000 mg (milligrams) of vitamin C (this is 1,111% of the recommended daily value (DV) or USDA.gov nutrient database value)

• B vitamins 

  • Vitamin B1 (thiamin): 0.36 mg or 30% of the DV

  • Vitamin B2 (riboflavin): 0.39 mg or 30% of the DV

  • Vitamin B3 (niacin): 4 mg or 25% of the DV

  • Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid): 2.5 mg or 50% of the DV

  • Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine): 10 mg or 588% of the DV

  • Vitamin B9 (folic acid): 100 mcg or 42% of the DV

  • Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin): 25 mcg or 1,042% of the DV

• 50 mg of Calcium (4% DV)

• 38 mg of Phosphorus (3% DV)

• 53 mg of Magnesium (13% DV)

• 2 mg of Zinc (18% DV)

• 0.5 mg of Manganese (22% DV)

• 10 mcg of Chromium (29% DV)

• 65 mg of sodium (3% DV)

• 200 mg of potassium (4% DV)

• Other ingredients such as fructose and citric acid.

Different Emergen-C products such as Immune Plus, Energy Plus, Probiotics Plus, Hydration Plus, Emergen-ZZZZ, and Emergen-C Kidz contain other ingredients, including:

• Vitamin D

• Vitamin E

• Other antioxidants, such as zinc and manganese

• Electrolytes, including calcium, sodium, potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium

• Probiotics (BB12 and L. Rhamnosus GG)

• Other ingredients like ginseng, caffeine from green tea, melatonin, and plant-based protein

Additionally, there are options for gluten-free and caffeine-free versions of Emergen-C to meet consumers’ dietary preferences.

Does Emergen-C boost your immune system?

Emergen-C contains many nutrients that are important for a healthy immune system. Here’s what science says about the key ingredients in Emergen-C and whether they can support your immune system:

Vitamin C

Research has shown mixed results about the ability of vitamin C to provide daily immune support. Some studies suggest that taking vitamin C may have a minor role in reducing the duration of common cold symptoms. However, there is little to no evidence that regular vitamin C supplementation reduces the incidence of the common cold. 

B Vitamins

In general, our bodies need B vitamins to metabolize food into energy. Therefore, deficiencies of B vitamins can lead to a lack of energy, lethargy, and poor immune health. Vitamin B12 deficiency is associated with anemia, which can lead to an increased risk of certain infections. A deficiency in folic acid (Vitamin B9) may also be associated with medical conditions such as cardiovascular disease and cancer. It is well-documented that folic acid supplementation reduces the risk of neural tube defects in females of childbearing age.

Zinc

Along with vitamin C, zinc is one of the key antioxidants in Emergen-C. This micronutrient is needed for the normal development of immune cells. Evidence shows that zinc may decrease cold symptom severity and duration. In children, zinc was found to decrease the rate of development of colds and school absence.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D plays a role in immunity and supplementation may be beneficial for people who are deficient in vitamin D. The Immune Plus variant of Emergen-C contains vitamin D. 

How often can you take Emergen-C immune support?

You can take one packet daily of Emergen-C. Read the package label carefully, and do not exceed the suggested doses of Emergen-C dietary supplements. Do not give children dietary supplements intended for adults. Excess of any nutrients, including vitamin C, can be harmful. Remember, Emergen-C contains more vitamin C per serving than 10 raw oranges. 

Additionally, while including Emergen-C energy support and immune support products as part of your daily wellness routine, keep an eye on the calories. Emergen-C products contain up to 6 grams of added sugars, 8 grams of carbohydrates, and 35 calories per serving (Emergen-C does not contain artificial sweeteners). Remember, these products are not intended to be a refreshing drink for your taste buds. 

Do immune-boosting supplements actually work?

Evidence suggests that immune boosting supplements such as Emergen-C may improve immunity in people who are deficient in certain vitamins and nutrients. More research is needed to determine whether healthy adults without any nutrient deficiencies can benefit from taking immune boosting supplements.

What is the best supplement for the immune system?

There is no single best supplement for the immune system. Taking a supplement such as Emergen-C can seem like a deliciously easy way to boost your immune health. You simply rip open a packet seal, empty the contents into a glass of water, drink it up, and you’re done. But in reality, the human immune system is far more complex. Leading a healthy lifestyle by eating well, getting regular exercise and enough sleep, maintaining a healthy body weight, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol use are the best ways to naturally boost your immune system.  In other words, eating a healthy, balanced diet with adequate sleep and plenty of exercise is the best way to boost your immune system.

Remember, dietary supplements are evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as foods and not drugs. This means they may contain ingredients that can interact with prescription medicines or affect a medical condition you have. Sometimes, dietary supplements contain hidden ingredients that can put you at even greater risk. If you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medication, consult your doctor before taking any dietary supplements, including Emergen-C. 

Taking supplements such as Emergen-C may be viable if you can’t maintain a balanced diet. However, it is essential to check with your doctor before taking any supplements to prevent drug interactions leading to harmful adverse events. 

Note: This article is for information purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health condition.