Medical Health Encyclopedia

Vitamins. Studies are mixed whether vitamin supplements protect against upper respiratory infections. Large doses of vitamin C, for example, may help reduce the duration of a cold, but they do not appear to protect against one in the first place, even after exposure to a cold virus. Two studies in 2002 on multivitamins reported opposite results, with one finding fewer infections and one finding no difference. It is possible that vitamin C or multivitamin supplements may be helpful in specific people, such those who are vitamin deficient or have medical problems that impair their immune systems.

Studies on vitamin E specifically have been largely negative. A 2002 study, in fact, reported a higher incidence and greater severity of respiratory infections in older adults who took 200 mg of vitamin E daily.

Factors Associated with a Lower Risk for Respiratory Infections

Breastfeeding. Some evidence suggests that women who breastfeed reduce the risk of respiratory infections in their children.

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Low Stress and Active Social Life. More than one study has reported that people with low stress who also have an active social life have fewer colds than people who have high stress levels or those who have low stress and few social connections.