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Our Members Asked:
Do any supplements help prevent or treat a cold?
Answer:
Certain supplements can reduce the chance of getting a cold, while others may help reduce the severity of a cold or relieve cold symptoms. Other supplements don't seem to be beneficial for colds, but they may help prevent or treat other types of respiratory infections or inflammation. On the other hand, some supplements that are promoted for preventing or treating colds may not be beneficial.
Sign in as a ConsumerLab member to learn which supplements may help and which don’t. Supplements discussed include andrographis, astragalus, beta-glucan, bovine colostrum, bromelain, echinacea, elderberry, fish oil, garlic, glutathione, ginseng, honey, melatonin, NAC (N-acetyl-cysteine), olive leaf extract, pea (palmitoylethanolamide), postbiotics, prebiotics, probiotics, vitamins C and D, and zinc, as well as the branded products Emergen-C, Wellness Formula, and Oscillococcinum.
In addition the results of its expert testing, ConsumerLab uses only high-quality, evidence based, information sources. These sources include peer-reviewed studies and information from agencies such as the FDA and USDA, and the National Academy of Medicine. On evolving topics, studies from pre-print journals may be sourced. All of our content is reviewed by medical doctors and doctoral-level experts in pharmacology, toxicology, and chemistry. We continually update and medically review our information to keep our content trustworthy, accurate, and reliable. The following sources are referenced in this article:
- Abuelgasim, BMJ Evid Based Med 2020
- Auinger, Eur J Nutr 2013
- Feldman, J Appl Res 2009
- Josling, Adv Ther 2001
- Somerville, Nutrients 2019
- Talbott, J Sports Sci and Med 2009
- Vielma, Acta Trop 2014
- Weissman, Dig Dis Sci 2019
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Latest Research Updates (Clinical Updates)
Wellness Formula for Colds?
October 18, 2024
The product Wellness Formula by Source Naturals is said to support the immune system to help people avoid sick days. Is there evidence of that? Find out in our article about supplements for colds.
Also see: Do any supplements help for flu?
Vitamin D to Prevent Winter Colds & Flu?
September 26, 2024
Does taking vitamin D help prevent respiratory infections during winter? Find out what a recent study showed in the Respiratory infections, colds and influenza section of our Vitamin D Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks.
EpiCor for Colds and Flu?
July 08, 2024
Also see: Do any supplements help prevent or treat a cold?
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