Spring is finally here, meaning it's time to ditch evenings in front of the TV for time outdoors. The season represents renewal, and warmer days mean a healthy dose of Vitamin D. Unfortunately, for all of spring's benefits, it can also increase your risk of getting a cold.
The last thing anyone wants is to deal with a runny nose and sore throat when they should be outdoors enjoying themselves. Choosing the right supplements will help you navigate uncomfortable symptoms.
In this guide, we'll reveal the best supplements for recovering quickly from spring colds. From traditional vitamins to powerful plants, we've got all the information you need right here.
Let's dive in.
Why Do We Get Sick in the Spring?
Spring symbolizes new beginnings, so getting sick when the sun finally starts to shine can be disheartening. While most people associate colds with winter weather, they're common in the spring and occur for numerous reasons.
Temperature Fluctuations
As a fluctuating season, spring is known for its diverse weather. One day might be warm and sunny, while another brings heavy rain and winds. These fluctuations can place stress on the body, making it hard for your immune system to battle cold and flu viruses.
Individuals with a weaker immune system are more likely to suffer from colds during this time.
Outdoor Activity
While winter often leads to people retreating indoors, spring has the opposite effect. As more people venture outdoors, their exposure to germs and viruses increases. It's important to remember that spending time outside is also beneficial for your overall health.
Taking the right supplements and looking after your fitness will protect you from infections and allow you to enjoy being out and about.
Air Quality
Winter is a time to relax indoors and enjoy the warmth, which means the windows and doors often remain tightly sealed. As spring arrives and you open those windows, the indoor allergens linger, and outdoor allergens enter the property.
This means that you could be more at risk of infections during the beginning of spring.
Is it a Cold, Flu, or Seasonal Allergies?
Knowing whether you have a cold, flu or seasonal allergies during spring isn't easy because all three are likely. However, cold and flu viruses have distinctly different symptoms of seasonal allergies.
Here are the main differences:
Colds
Common colds take a few days to develop, and the symptoms gradually worsen over time. Most people notice a runny nose, cough, and sore throat, with headaches and blocked sinuses also common.
In most cases, a cold lasts 7-10 days, with the symptoms subsiding. Herbal remedies and vitamins can ease the symptoms.
Influenza
Flu symptoms can replicate those found in colds, but they often occur suddenly and are more severe. In addition to coughing, sore throat, and nasal symptoms, influenza can also result in nausea, vomiting, chills, and body aches.
The flu virus can last up to two weeks, but seniors, children and individuals with underlying health conditions might experience complications.
Seasonal Allergies
Spring often causes seasonal allergies - including sensitivities to dust, pollen and pets. Many people suffer from allergies, and the symptoms usually include a runny nose and eyes, sore throat, sneezing, itching skin, and even coughing.
Unlike colds and flu viruses, seasonal allergies can last for months or only cause symptoms when you're around specific triggers. The treatment for typical allergies includes staying away from irritants and taking antihistamines.
Which Vitamins Help With Cold Symptoms?
Vitamins and minerals are integral to overall health, and many people struggle to obtain their recommended intake through diet alone. Certain vitamins can ensure optimal health and give your body the strength it needs to fight infections.
- Vitamin C: Despite some beliefs, Vitamin C doesn't prevent colds and viruses. Instead, taking it regularly can reduce the duration of colds and ensure the symptoms don't worsen. Taking a daily Vitamin C supplement can also boost overall health.
- Vitamin D: Studies show that Vitamin D deficiency can increase the risk of numerous conditions, including colds (NIH). While research is ongoing, ensuring optimal Vitamin D levels could lower your chances of developing a cold.
- Zinc: Taking zinc supplements could be beneficial, as they can reduce the severity of your symptoms and shorten the duration of the cold. Some studies also suggest that zinc might halt the cold virus's ability to replicate.
- Echinacea: Echinacea are flowers that are native to America. Three types of echinacea are commonly used for colds. While there's limited research into how effective the plant is, many people use it as a holistic treatment.
Which Supplements Help With Cold Symptoms?
With a multitude of natural supplements available, finding the right one for you can be a challenge. We’ve handpicked top-rated natural supplements that effectively treat colds and flu viruses and get you to optimal health.
Natural Factors Lung Bronchial & Sinus Health
If you're searching for a natural way to relieve the symptoms of coughs and colds, Natural Factors Lung Bronchial & Sinus Health increases lung capacity and gently breaks down mucus. Each tablet contains powerful natural ingredients, including mullein, horehound and bromelain.
Suitable for children over six and adults, the tablets will provide much-needed relief if taken during a cold or regularly if you suffer from sinus issues. The non-drowsy formula is also suitable for daytime use.
Natural Factors Echinamide Anti-Viral Potent Fresh Herbal Extract
Viruses aren't treatable with antibiotics, and most people have to let them run their course. The Antiviral Natural Factors soft gels will give your immune system a healthy dose of herbs and plants.
Combining echinacea purpurea, astragalus, lomatium and Reishi mushroom, each dose will help your body fight off infections quickly and return to everyday life. It's not a miracle solution, but taking the Antiviral supplement can help you recover from a spring cold.
Natural Factors Black Elderberry
Black elderberry has been a go-to holistic treatment for centuries due to its abundant antioxidants. It can offer immune system support, reducing the frequency and impact of colds, reducing fevers, and promoting comfort.
The Black Elderberry capsules from Natural Factors can relieve the symptoms of colds and flu, reduce sore throats, and remove catarrh. Each soft gel capsule is also easy to take, making this supplement ideal for people who hate taking tablets.
Natural Factors Chewable Ginger
Ginger is another natural ingredient that boasts impressive healing powers. Its proven history of treating the symptoms of cold and flu viruses makes it a great choice when you want to continue with daily life.
Ginger is known for relieving sore throats and soothing nausea while being gentler than many OTC medicines. The ginger supplements from Natural Factors are easy to chew and will alleviate your symptoms.
Must-Haves For Seasonal Colds and Flus
You'll want immediate relief when a seasonal cold or flu virus strikes. These supplements are renowned for reducing pain and inflammation, helping your body fight the cold rapidly.
Nin Jiom
Chinese medicine focuses on harnessing the power of natural ingredients instead of pharmaceuticals. Combining honey and herbs, this cough syrup has a nice taste and can treat various cough types.
Each dose will relieve the chest and throat while removing phlegm and reducing your temperature. The medicine dates back thousands of years, highlighting its health benefits.
Ingredients
Nin Jiom cough medicine contains a range of natural herbs and honey, including licorice root, elm bark, Chinese snake gourd, ginger, apricot seed, milkwort, coltsfoot and Chinese magnolia vine fruit.
Francis Stop Cold Throat Spray
Sore throats are more than a mere inconvenience; they can impact your quality of life, lead to days off work and cause a lot of pain. St. Francis Stop Cold Throat Spray is a powerful medicine that combines soothing herbs to relieve sore throats.
Ideal for sore throats caused by excess coughing, infections, and tonsillitis, each spray relieves pain and makes daily activities easier. Spray the throat up to four times every two hours, and you'll notice instant relief.
Ingredients
St. Francis Throat Spray contains whey, propolis, marshmallow, sweet fennel, sage, and licorice, all of which have soothing properties and reduce the symptoms of sore throats. However, side effects can occur, and you should stop taking the medicine if you notice any.
Herbion Naturals All Natural Cough Syrup
As one of the most popular cough syrups, Herbion All Natural offers maximum therapeutic benefits without any harsh ingredients. It combines plants and herbs that reduce coughing and relieve a sore throat.
As an alcohol-free medicine, Herbion Naturals Cough Syrup is safe for children over 13 months to use and enjoy its properties. It is also an effective way to treat common colds and coughs.
Ingredients
Herbion Naturals All Natural Cough medicine combines four ingredients to reduce your symptoms.
Licorice reduces inflammation, while hyssop and long pepper clear the airways and reduce phlegm. Malabar nuts relax the respiratory tract and reduce the frequency of coughing.
Beat The Seasonal Colds and Flus with Vitamins and Supplements
Seasonal colds and flu can happen, but that doesn't mean you should let them get in your way. Choosing the right supplements and vitamins can make a significant difference to your overall health and well-being.
Lifestyle Markets is the go-to place for high-quality cold and flu treatments. We specialize in natural supplements and stock the best medicines from reputable manufacturers. Shop today and look forward to excellent savings and speedy delivery on all products.
If you need any help, please don't hesitate to contact our friendly customer service team.
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