Got the sniffles? Runny nose got you down? Too stuffed up to breathe easily or to taste a great meal? You likely have a common cold—too common during frosty winter days! That said, can any foods, nutrients, or supplements prevent it, or at least minimize your symptoms?
So far, dietary cure-all claims aren’t backed by strong scientific evidence. Large doses of vitamin C won’t prevent a cold, but its antihistamine effect may ease your breathing. Zinc and echinacea supplements may reduce symptoms, but they also may suppress, not improve, immunity. And lobelia, an herbal supplement, may cause harm, from breathing problems and rapid heartbeat to coma, even death!
To relieve cold’s symptoms and hasten your recovery:
- Take time to rest. Stay away from others if you can.
- Drink plenty of fluids, including vitamin C–rich juice (even hot chicken soup). Fluids and warmth help loosen nasal mucous.
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