It was not until 200 years later that vitamin C was found to prevent scurvy. Severe deficiency of vitamin C can lead to scurvy. However, severe deficiency and scurvy are rare in developed nations. It is not known for sure if mega doses of antioxidants, such as vitamin C, can help decrease the risk for chronic diseases. Much of the current information is conflicting.
More research is needed.
In a recent review of current studies, it was suggested that an intake of 90 mg per day provides the optimal health benefits related to heart disease and cancer . There is no substantial evidence that mental or emotional stress increases the need for vitamin C for healthy people. Many studies have been done to determine the effect vitamin C has on the common cold . These doses may, however, reduce the duration and severity of a cold for some people. This may be because at high doses, vitamin C may act like an antihistamine.