Preventing Colds and Flu

We would all like to find the magic pill that will prevent us from getting sick during cold and flu season. There is a large amount of advice available as to what that magic pill is! While most of the magic pill advice won’t cause you any harm, there isn’t good evidence that it will help prevent or cure a viral infection like a cold or the flu.

The proven best things to do to keep your body healthier are:
• Get enough sleep
• Eat regular meals
• Exercise 30 minutes daily
• Keep your stress level down
• Make sure you are drinking a normal amount of fluids so that you are not dehydrated
• Wash your hands frequently during the day
• Keep your distance from people who have cold or flu like symptoms
• Get a Flu Shot.

Some evidence for the Magic Pills:
• Vitamin D: People with low levels of vitamin D are more prone to infections. It wouldn’t hurt to take up to 1000 units of vitamin D everyday from supplements.
• Probiotics: Good bacteria that normally live in our bodies which help us fight off infection. Taking a probiotic supplement may help
• Multivitamins: Just to make sure that you are covering all your bases.

Less evidence for the Magic Pills:
• Vitamin C
• Echinacea
• Zinc

Check with your pharmacist or other healthcare professional before adding a new medication. Some medications may interfere with ones you are already taking and some medications shouldn’t be used if you have other health conditions.