Colds and the Flu - Prevention

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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.

In contrast, a 2006 study conducted in Japan found people who took 500 mg of vitamin C daily had fewer colds than people who took 50 mg of the vitamin. Vitamin supplementation, however, had no apparent effect on the duration of the cold or severity of symptoms, the study noted.

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.

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.

Review Date: 03/06/2007
Reviewed By: A.D.A.M. Editorial Team: Greg Juhn, M.T.P.W., David R. Eltz, Kelli A. Stacy. Previously reviewed by Harvey Simon, MD, Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Physician, Massachusetts General Hospital (12/4/2006).