My son called me yesterday and mentioned he had a cold.
Normally, hearing that news would be frustrating, but in the age of COVID, I actually felt relieved to know it was just a cold.
Unfortunately, my son isn’t alone.
Colds are making a comeback, and they seem to be affecting people everywhere.
Even though colds are typically not serious, they are certainly inconvenient and often feel like they drag on forever.
If there’s a way to stop a cold in its tracks or even avoid getting one in the first place, it’s worth considering.
Well, today I have some good news.
There’s a simple solution that can help both prevent and shorten colds, and it’s something you can find just about anywhere.
Researchers from Western Sydney University in Australia recently published a study in the journal BMJ Open that could offer some hope.
Their research found that zinc supplementation can help combat respiratory tract infections, including colds, flu, sinusitis, pneumonia, and even COVID-19.
The researchers reviewed 28 studies involving over 5,000 patients and concluded that zinc could prevent or shorten symptoms like coughing, congestion, and sore throat.
This is because zinc plays a crucial role in supporting our immune systems.
For years, natural medicine practitioners have recommended zinc lozenges as a way to fend off colds and the flu.
Now, mainstream medicine is beginning to catch up with these findings.
The researchers even suggested that zinc could be a helpful substitute for patients who demand a treatment but don’t actually need antibiotics.
This is significant because doctors often prescribe antibiotics even when they’re not necessary simply because it’s all they have to offer.
But with zinc, doctors now have an effective alternative.
In addition to zinc, there are other things you can do to give your immune system a boost.
One approach that I personally find helpful is Dr. Scott’s Anti-Cold Program, which includes a variety of strategies.
Eating well is the foundation of any health program.
I like to include garlic and onions in my meals, especially during flu season.
Garlic and onions have long been valued for their healing properties, and they add great flavor to dishes like soups.
There are also a number of herbs and vitamins that can support your immune system, but make sure you’re getting enough of them.
Vitamin D is another essential nutrient.
I take 3,000-5,000 IUs of vitamin D every day to help my body stay strong during cold and flu season.
Berberine, turmeric, and olive leaf are herbs that can provide additional support to your immune system, helping to fight off infections like the flu.
I also make sure to take a probiotic that includes polyphenols, which are antioxidants found in plant foods.
There is a significant amount of research showing that probiotics can support immunity, and I prefer a superfood blend that offers the added benefits of gut health and antioxidants.
By combining zinc supplementation with other immune-boosting practices like eating well, taking vitamins, and incorporating herbs, you can give your body the support it needs to stay healthy.
If you want to learn more about the benefits of zinc and its role in immune health, check out these studies from Healthline and Medical News Today.