A guide to 7 of our favourite picks for cold & flu relief
When it comes to supporting your immune health there are some evidence-based things you can try to help prevent, treat and recover from an acute case of illness that leaves you with cold and flu-like symptoms.
And if you’re looking for some guidance on how you can best support yourself during this cold and flu season, we’ve pulled together our picks of the products that may help to prevent a common cold as well as provide some much needed symptomatic relief.
Before we begin, it’s important to note that these products may not be right for you. Always read the label and follow the directions for use.
Immune support to help prevent the common cold
Thompson's Organic Zinc
Thompson’s Organic Zinc includes an organic form of zinc that is well absorbed.
Zinc plays a central role in immune system health and preventing illness. Evidence suggests that people deficient in zinc may be more susceptible to things like bacteria and viruses.
Herbs Of Gold Vitamin D3 1000 IU
Herbs of Gold D3 1000 IU contains the bioactive form of vitamin D, colecalciferol, and for the vegetarians out there it's gelatin-free and vegan.
Vitamin D is vital to immune health by helping it stay balanced and working well.
Studies have shown supplementation of vitamin D during winter months may reduce the occurrence of seasonal cold and flu. Seek guidance from your health professional, and if you are deficient in vitamin D you may benefit from a supplement to help support your immune response.
Medlab Immune-5
Medlab Immune-5 powder is a combination of probiotic species and nutrients for immune defence and function. The formulation of specific probiotic strains, prebiotic fibre, lactoferrin, and colostrum work to activate and modulate immune defence processes, and help maintain and support immune system health.
Gut health plays a pivotal role in immune health so it’s important to support a well-balanced gut microbiome.
Blackmores Cold Shield Nasal Spray
Travelling, public transport and confined indoor spaces can sometimes be unavoidable. This can be particularly unsettling when you are trying your best to avoid catching something this winter.
Blackmores Cold Shield Nasal Spray is useful to keep on hand for cold protection. Working as a gel when inside the nostril, it helps to trap and deactivate airborne germs by creating a barrier in the nose to help to shield and protect.
Formulas for relief of common cold symptoms
Ethical Nutrients Immune Defence
Do you know those very early signs of the common cold; a scratchy throat or tiredness and lethargy? A formula such as Ethical Nutrients Immune Defence may be just what you need!
With immune herbs such as Andrographis and Echinacea, supplementation may help ease common cold symptoms, reduce their severity and furthermore support a healthy recovery. This formula also includes Siberian ginseng, a herb traditionally used to fight fatigue and assist with energy levels.
Ki Sore Throat Spray
No one likes that feeling of a sore, scratchy and irritated throat that comes with the common cold.
Ki Sore Throat Spray contains ingredients used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to help relieve symptoms of the common cold and help relieve a sore and inflamed throat. It can be conveniently administered using the bottle and nozzle.
Ethical Nutrients Extra C Powder
Ethical Nutrients Extra C Powder combines five different forms of Vitamin C to assist in the management of common colds.
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that supports your body’s immune system and its defence. Evidence suggests that taking higher doses of vitamin C when you’re unwell with the common cold may help reduce its duration.
Better yet, this one is a delicious orange flavoured powder!
Remember the daily basics
It’s important to remember that while this guide may assist you, if you are considering a supplement to top your body up when you need some extra support, never underestimate the importance of healthy-living strategies to nourish your body.
Nail the daily basics like eating your 5 serves of veggies and 2 serves of fruit, regular exercise, adequate sleep (at least 7 hours of shut eye a night is ideal) and manage your stress levels.
Reviewed by the healthylife Advisory Board April 2022
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This guide is of general recommendation only and should not replace a visit to your health professional for individual advice. If you believe you may be deficient in a vitamin or mineral, always consult your health professional first before starting supplementation.