Vitamin C is active throughout the whole body as the body's primary water-soluble vitamin. It is an anti-oxidant, which means that it fights the damage caused by unstable oxygen modelcules called "free-radicals", thus protecting cells from disruption and damage and slowing down the effects of ageing in the process. Vitamin C works by stimulating the immune system to protect against damage by the free radicals released by the body in its fight against the infections.

Not only does Vitamin C markedly reduce the severity of a cold, it also effectively prevents secondary viral or bacterial complications.

Why Vitamin C Powder?

We have selected powders as our best Vitamin C products because of the sheer strength of the formulas and their superior absorption capability.

One teaspoon of these powdered Vitamin C products is the equivalent of taking up to 24 tablets of a Vitamin C that you would buy in a Supermarket - without the artifical flavouring.

Further Reading on Vitamin C

• 10 things you should know about Vitamin C
• How Vitamin C can reduce the frequency of common colds
• The importance of Vitamin C and Zinc

An effervescent anti-oxidant powder with buffered Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Rutin, natural Betacarotene and Zinc, this is an excellent preparation for the prevention and treatment of Vitamin C and zinc deficiencies. Beta AC powder assists in the treatment of colds by reducing the severity and duration of symptoms. It is also an excellent aid for minor skin disorders and tissue repair.

Beta A-C tablets are an anti-oxidant with buffered Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Rutin, natural Betacarotene and Zinc. Beta A-C tablets are a convenient way to have your daily dose of Vitamin C anywhere, anytime. Beta A-C helps relieve minor skin disorders and assists in tissue repair and is an excellent preparation for the prevention and treatment of Vitamin C and zinc deficiencies. Beta AC tablets may assist in the treatment of colds by reducing the severity and duration of symptoms.

Metagenics C-Ultrascorb II Powder is a scientifically advanced formula of pH-adjusted vitamin C metabolites and hesperidin for enhanced absorption. C-Ultrascorb II Powder has a wide range of applications, and can assist in the management of upper respiratory tract infections, colds, hayfever and allergies.

Orthoplex Ultra Buffered C Powder is a potent Vitamin C supplement that is gentle enough for sensitive stomachs. Ultra Buffered C Powder can be used to help support the immune system, strengthen antioxidant defence and maintain a healthy adrenal response to stress. Orthoplex Ultra Buffered C Powder may be beneficial for conditions associated with oxidative stress, poor immune function and collagen synthesis.

Ultra Potent C is a great tasting effervescent drink delivering 2.45 grams of Vitamin C per serve. This product has been specially designed for those who may be sensitive to digesting Vitamin C in more acidic forms. It is ideal for individuals concerned about protecting the stomach from excess acid while still offering optimum Vitamin C absorption.

For those who prefer not to take a powder but still don't like swallowing tablets, this preparation is an ideal solution. A pleasant tasting, orange flavoured chewable Vitamin C supplement that the whole family can use, it is buffered with mineral ascorbates making it gentle on the stomach. It contains citrus bioflavonoids extract to help increase the uptake and utilisation of Vitamin C in the body, and importantly, contains no artificial sweeteners or colourings.

There are many supplements out there - some that promise to shrink your waist, others that will provide superior immunity, and ones that just seem to good to be true.

Unfortunately, in our pursuit for supreme health, the basic vitamins and minerals are overlooked in favour of newer and fancier sounding products. Here, we show you why you simply must take vitamin C - a vitamin that is known for its powerful antioxidant effects and immunity boosting powers.