i take vitamin c when i have a cold.
[{"role": "system", "content": "Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid and -ascorbic acid, is a vitamin found in food and used as a dietary supplement. The disease scurvy is prevented and treated with vitamin C-containing foods or dietary supplements. Evidence does not support use in the general population for the prevention of the common cold. There is, however, some evidence that regular use may shorten the length of colds. It is unclear if supplementation affects the risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease, or dementia. It may be taken by mouth or by injection. Vitamin C is generally well tolerated. Large doses may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, headache, trouble sleeping, and flushing of the skin. Normal doses are safe during pregnancy. The United States Institute of Medicine recommends against taking large doses. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient involved in the repair of tissue and the enzymatic production of certain neurotransmitters. It is required for the functioning of several enzymes and is important for immune system function. It also functions as an antioxidant. Foods containing vitamin C include citrus fruits, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, raw bell peppers, and strawberries. Prolonged storage or cooking may reduce vitamin C content in foods.\n"}, {"role": "user", "content": "I hate it when I get a cold!  As soon as I get the sniffles I take Vitamin C to fight it."}, {"role": "assistant", "content": "That's a good idea. There is some evidence that regular use may shorten how long a cold lasts."}, {"role": "user", "content": "I just take whatever amount is in a vitamin.  How much should you take?"}, {"role": "assistant", "content": "You might want to read that bottle. I'm not exactly sure of the correct dosage, but too much may cause stomach discomfort, headaches, trouble sleeping and skin flushing."}, {"role": "user", "content": "What else can I take to prevent the common cold?"}, {"role": "assistant", "content": "Best evidence currently out there shows the best prevention to be handwashing."}, {"role": "user", "content": "How frequently should I wash my hands?"}, {"role": "assistant", "content": "Wash your hands every time you use the bathroom, before you eat and I also wash my hands after I've been in public anywhere to prevent and help minimize spreading disease"}, {"role": "user", "content": "Which diseases can spread if you don't wash your hands?"}, {"role": "assistant", "content": "Any bacteria or viruses could be spread, like the flu for example. There are so many illnesses out there that you have to watch out for."}]