Can I Fight Colds and Flu With Dietary Supplements?

Many people like to take dietary supplements with the hope of fighting colds and flu. Here are four dietary supplements commonly taken during the cold and flu season.

Vitamin C Supplements

Along with eating plenty of fruit and vegetables, you can get additional Vitamin C by taking a Vitamin C supplement.  Vitamin C is just one of the supplements to help build up your immune system.

Zinc Supplements

Zinc is a mineral that is needed for a healthy immune system and is often sold as an over-the-counter natural treatment for the common cold. One meta-analysis that compared several studies on zinc found that taking zinc within 24 hours after the start of a cold may help to reduce symptoms.  Zinc is sold in a variety of tablets but one which is found to be helpful is a lozenge as this may help to sooth a sore throat.

Echinacea

This herb is available as a dietary supplement and is used to prevent or decrease the duration of the common cold. Some studies show mixed results, however a meta-analysis of several studies reports that taking Echinacea supplements may actually be effective. The flowers parts of the echinacea purpura plant appears to offer the most beneficial form.

Probiotics

These "friendly bacteria" help to keep your digestive tract healthy and appear to have some beneficial effect on your immune system. Probiotics is present in food such as natural yogurt but can be bought over the counter as Acidiophilus. Research supports the use of probiotics for reducing the symptoms and duration of the common cold.