Common Cold

The common cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract. The most common of all diseases, colds are characterized by congestion, coughing, headache, runny nose, and sneezing. (Although some people exhibit a light fever, a high temperature is usually indicative of influenza rather than a cold). Most of these symptoms are the attempts of your immune system to fight the virus. They usually clear up in five to ten days, after which there is a several-week period of residual coughing and slight congestion.

Colds are extremely contagious, but there are steps you can take to protect yourself. Avoid close contact with infected people. Whenever possible, wash your hands, which can remove viruses before they enter your body. Do not touch your face until you have washed your hands. If you believe you have been exposed to a cold or if your symptoms have already begun, ingest the following supplements. They will help shorten the duration of your cold and lessen its severity.

Supplements to treat the common cold

• Echinacea – Do not use long term.
• Essential Defense – Metagenics product.
• N-acetylcysteine
• Taurine
• Vitamin C
• Zinc