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 have heard that it is beneficial to take vitamin C when you are experiencing cold symptoms."}, {"role": "assistant", "content": "I don't know there is any actual evidence that it works for colds, but it does prevent scurvy."}, {"role": "user", "content": "What exactly is scurvy?"}, {"role": "assistant", "content": "Scurvy causes weakness, feeling tired and sore arms and legs.  It can cause death."}, {"role": "user", "content": "Has it been proven that vitamin C actually prevents scurvy?"}, {"role": "assistant", "content": "Oh, yes!  Sailors routinely died of scurvy before limes were standard to be brought onboard ships.  Now it occurs mostly in those with alcoholism"}, {"role": "user", "content": "I have never heard of limes being a staple for sailors in order to prevent scurvy!"}, {"role": "assistant", "content": "Yep.  They were something that could last for a while onboard.  Lemons as well.  I believe the British Navy started the program.  It takes at least a month of too little or no vitamin C before scurvy sets in"}, {"role": "user", "content": "It is good to know that such a debilitating illness is easily prevented."}, {"role": "assistant", "content": "James Lind was the person who found citrus fruit prevented scurvy"}]