With the onset of cold and flu season, Fox News Digital reached out to several health specialists for advice on natural remedies to consider when someone contracts any of these illnesses, as reported by the New York Post. As always, it is prudent to consult a doctor if there are any questions or concerns regarding health or symptoms an individual may experience, as circumstances vary from person to person. However, there are also 10 recommendations to keep in mind:
1. **Vitamin C**
Experts recommend that those who feel they are coming down with a cold or whose health is not optimal may take vitamin supplements, especially Vitamin C and Vitamin D3. Dr. Naval Barik, head of the Department of Medicine at Broward Health North, stated that Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits and is also available in supplement form, advising that sick individuals should consume "at least 1000 mg daily." Dr. Summer Kearley, Vice President of Clinical Operations and Health Plan Solutions, noted that Vitamin C has antioxidants that "protect the body's cells from harmful substances known as free radicals." However, she warned about the doses being taken. According to Mount Sinai Health Network, "serious side effects from taking too much Vitamin C are very rare since the body cannot store the vitamin, but amounts greater than 2000 mg/day are not recommended, as high doses can lead to stomach upset and diarrhea, and rarely kidney stones."
2. **Vitamin D3**
Dr. Kearley also recommended taking Vitamin D3, indicating that it "serves as a large daily dose of sunlight and is known to help support the immune system in fighting viruses." She cautioned that taking too much Vitamin D3 could also be harmful, explaining that "the main result of Vitamin D toxicity is the buildup of calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia), which can cause nausea, vomiting, weakness, and frequent urination." According to the Mayo Clinic, "Vitamin D toxicity can lead to bone pain and kidney problems, such as calcium stone formation."
3. **Zinc**
Zinc is an essential mineral and another natural remedy proven effective in treating cold symptoms. Dr. Kearley mentioned that zinc "is important for immune cell function, which supports the body's defense against infection. Zinc supplements may help support a healthy immune system." Dr. Barik emphasized the importance of "taking zinc supplements within the first three days of symptom onset while carefully following the instructions." Dr. Benjamin Jack, an emergency physician in Texas, noted that overusing zinc sprays "has been linked to permanent loss of smell."
4. **Honey**
Dr. Jack noted that "honey has been shown to be effective in reducing cough in both adults and children." He stressed the importance of remembering that honey should not be given to infants under one year old, as it can cause food poisoning in young children.
5. **Elderberry**
The elderberry plant, a medicinal herb, has been used for years to treat cold and flu symptoms as well as to strengthen the immune system. Dr. Kearley said, "Elderberry is rich in antioxidants and may support immune function and reduce symptoms of upper respiratory infections."
6. **Chicken Soup**
A study conducted by the Nebraska Medical Center in the 1990s found that chicken soup is indeed an effective remedy for colds. Dr. Stephen Rennard tested his wife’s grandmother's chicken soup recipe in the lab and found that "there are ingredients in common foods that may have anti-inflammatory effects." Dr. Barik praised a plant-based cold remedy given to him as a child when he was sick, explaining it was "an ancient Indian natural remedy made from warm water, salt, turmeric, and butter that helps relieve chest congestion, soothe sore throat, and alleviate cough."
7. **Saline Sprays**
Dr. Jack stated, "Saline nasal sprays are a safe and simple solution" to help relieve congestion, adding that they are "effective and usually do not have the side effects associated with medicinal sprays."
8. **Hot Showers**
Dr. Barik mentioned that "taking a hot steam shower" can work wonders in relieving congestion, making colds or influenza less miserable.
9. **Healthy Nutrition**
Dr. Kearley said, "The best way to boost the immune system is to maintain a balanced, nutrient-rich diet" before falling ill, which should include "plenty of foods high in Vitamin C, such as broccoli, oranges, or melons." She added, "Colorful fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants, such as berries, carrots, and spinach, help support immunity by protecting the body from harmful compounds known as free radicals." She advised trying to "avoid processed foods and excessive sugars" and "maintain hydration with plenty of water and other sugar- and caffeine-free beverages."
10. **Good Sleep**
Many experts say the importance of good sleep at night and rest when sick cannot be overstated. Dr. Kearley explained that an adult "needs at least seven to eight hours of good sleep each night," noting that good sleep helps regenerate new cells and gain the energy needed to fight infection, while sleep deprivation can decrease immune function. Dr. Barik concluded the advice by stating that "physical exertion is detrimental to the immune system when sick, so one should get plenty of rest and sleep when suffering from a cold or flu."
