People around the world are increasingly growing health conscious and are more willing to make lifestyle changes post the pandemic. To better understand people’s evolving health needs Abbott, a global healthcare company, in partnership with IPSOS, unveiled the findings of its pan-India survey, ‘Healthy Living: The Role of Vitamin C.’ The survey highlighted that nearly 7 out of 10 consumers associate good health with immunity, high energy levels, and performing daily activities without difficulty.
Most people also seek to maintain adequate levels of vitamin C for better health outcomes.
Vitamin C is an essential micronutrient involved in maintaining several body functions and
is known to have many health benefits. The findings uncovered insights into how people
perceive and incorporate vitamin C into their daily routine.
Dr. Kartik Peethambaran, Associate Director, Medical Affairs, Abbott India said,
“Vitamin C contributes to the immune defence mechanism of the body that helps boost immunity. Supplementation with vitamin C is known to prevent and treat respiratory infections and has multiple health benefits. Our survey highlights perception on the role of
vitamin C in overall good health.”
“Vitamin C has significant health benefits such as strengthening the body’s defences and
bone health, enhancing iron absorption, helping with wound healing, maintenance of healthy gums and more. Lack of vitamin C can, therefore, lead to a nutritional gap,” said Dr. Puneet Gupta, Director & Consulting Physician, Suvira Hospital, Jaipur. He added, “Consistent consumption of vitamin C not just helps in building immunity but also
benefits people with non-communicable diseases like diabetes, who may require greater
intake.”
Key Findings: ‘Healthy Living: The Role of Vitamin C’ Survey
Ipsos surveyed over 2,000 people across nine cities – Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Cochin, Ahmedabad, and Pune. Some key findings include:
Observed benefits:
o 52% of respondents said consuming vitamin C supplements during rainy and winter seasons resulted in less sick days
o 61% of women found vitamin C beneficial in faster recovery from illness
Perceived benefits:
o About 60% of respondents (including 50% of non-supplement users) associate vitamin C supplements with recovery from illness
o 65% of respondents perceive that vitamin supplements help in maintaining overall health, and 52% are of the opinion that it can help maintain bone and joint health
o 73% respondents drink enough water and have a balanced diet to recover
faster from illnesses
Effects of low vitamin C intake:
o 60% of respondents believe that lack of vitamin C lowers immunity
o 36% associate low Vitamin C intake with delay in recovery from illnesses
Dr. Puneet Gupta further added, “These findings further align with research studies on vitamin C and its role in supporting immune function and fighting infections. Making Vitamin C a part of one’s daily diet can help people get and stay healthy by building a stronger immune system.”