Are vitamin C chewable tablets the best way to boost immunity, or does Ayurveda offer a better alternative?

Question

For the past few months, I’ve been falling sick quite often—frequent colds, sore throat, and just feeling low on energy. A friend suggested that I start taking vitamin C chewable tablets daily to strengthen my immunity. I bought a pack and have been taking them every day for a few weeks. While they taste good and seem convenient, I don’t feel a huge difference yet. I also started wondering—are these synthetic vitamin C chewable tablets really the best way to get vitamin C, or am I missing out on something more natural?

I read online that too much synthetic vitamin C can sometimes cause acidity or stomach discomfort. I do get mild acidity from time to time, so now I’m not sure if these vitamin C chewable tablets are the right choice for me. Plus, I’ve always believed that natural sources of nutrients are better absorbed by the body than supplements.

That’s why I started looking into Ayurveda. Does Ayurveda have natural alternatives to vitamin C chewable tablets that provide better immunity without side effects? Are there specific herbs or foods that naturally boost vitamin C levels in the body? Also, are there any Ayurvedic tonics or remedies that strengthen immunity in a more holistic way rather than just focusing on one vitamin?

If anyone has tried switching from vitamin C chewable tablets to Ayurvedic methods, I’d love to hear how it worked for you. Should I stop taking these tablets and focus on Ayurvedic remedies instead, or is there a way to combine both for the best results?

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

In Ayurveda, boosting immunity is viewed as a holistic process, focusing on balancing the doshas and nourishing the body through natural sources of nutrients. Instead of relying on synthetic vitamin C supplements, you can increase your intake of vitamin C through natural foods like amla (Indian gooseberry), which is a potent source of vitamin C, as well as citrus fruits, guava, and pomegranates. These fruits are rich in antioxidants and promote overall immune health. Ayurvedic herbs like Tulsi (holy basil), Guduchi, and Ashwagandha also help strengthen the immune system by balancing the body's natural defenses and promoting vitality. To improve digestion and avoid acidity, you can incorporate warm, soothing herbal teas with ingredients like ginger, mint, and fennel, which support the digestive fire (Agni). Ayurvedic remedies offer a more comprehensive approach to immunity, addressing the root cause of imbalance rather than focusing on one nutrient. You can combine both synthetic vitamin C and Ayurvedic herbs for a balanced approach, but transitioning to natural sources and tonics can provide longer-lasting benefits without the side effects of synthetic supplements.

Are vitamin C chewable tablets the best way to boost immunity, or does Ayurveda offer a better alternative? - #16710

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