During the cold and flu season, its popularity soars. Considered one of the best immune supplements on the market, searches related to "lack of vitamin C" have increased by 1,025% in the last month, but is there really a direct relationship between its deficiency and colds?

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is an essential vitamin that our body needs to function properly, from boosting the immune system to keeping the skin, bones, blood vessels, and cartilages healthy: "Every single cell and tissue in our body needs this nutrient to function and repair," states Shabir Daya, pharmacist and co-founder of Victoria Health.

The problem is that vitamin C is water-soluble, "which means it is eliminated from the body very quickly after being ingested through food or supplements," notes Shabir. "A portion of vitamin C is retained in our organs and blood, but, according to current research, we first and foremost do not consume enough vitamin C, which exposes us to illness,” he explains.