We’re all aware of the age old belief, that orange juice—and particularly the vitamin C it contains—is one of the best remedies for a cold. While it’s still important to get the recommended amount of vitamin C because it does have various benefits, experts argue the belief that vitamin C fights colds is mostly an unfounded myth.
In 2013, a study conducted with 11,300 people found “no consistent effect” for those that were encouraged to take vitamin C supplements regularly. An earlier study in 2007, which analyzed 60 years worth of clinical data, also found little difference in the likelihood and duration of colds between children and adults who took vitamin C supplements daily compared to those who did not.
So what should you be recommending to customers? Zinc or supplements that contain zinc is one option. A handful of research shows oral zinc, when taken within 24 hours of developing cold symptoms, can help reduce the duration of symptoms. A 2015 study found those who took at least 80 mg of zinc lozenges per day got over nasal discharge, nasal congestion, sneezing, sore throat, cough and muscle ache symptoms faster.
Products with buckwheat honey may be another option. While there have only been a few studies, those that saw significant results focused on the impact in children ages 2 to 18 (it is not recommended for children under the age of 1).The studies found children suffering from respiratory infections experienced reduced coughing and frequency of cough, and slept better.
For more information visit: https://nccih.nih.gov/health/providers/digest/cold-science#heading1.
