Bangalore, April 5, 2024.
People around the world are increasingly growing health conscious and are more willing to make lifestyle changes post the pandemic.[i] 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 Cfor better health outcomes. Vitamin C is an essential micronutrient involved in maintainingseveral body functions and is known to have many health benefits.[ii]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 onthe 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.L Sreenivasamurthy, Consulting Physician & Diabetologist, Lifecare Hospital, Bangalore. Headded, “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:
- 52% of respondents said consuming vitamin C supplements during rainy and winter seasons resulted in less sick days
- 61% of women found vitamin C beneficial in faster recovery from illness
- Perceived benefits:
- About 60% of respondents (including 50% of non-supplement users) associate vitamin C supplements with recovery from illness
- 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
- 73% respondents drinkenough water and havea balanced diet to recover faster from illnesses
- Effects of low vitamin C intake:
- 60% of respondents believe that lack of vitamin C lowers immunity
- 36% associatelow Vitamin C intakewith delay in recovery from illnesses
Dr.L Sreenivasamurthyfurther added, “These findings further align with research studies onvitamin C and its role in supporting immune function and fighting infections. Making Vitamin C a part ofone’s daily diet canhelp people get and stay healthy by building a stronger immune system.”