The term "common cold" typically refers to a viral infection that affects the upper-respiratory system. Probiotics are being studied for effectiveness in treating or preventing the common cold. These helpful bacteria are naturally found in your digestive system and help maintain a balance between good and bad bacteria. The use of probiotics for treating and preventing the common cold needs to be discussed with your doctor as clinical evidence is lacking.
Common Cold
The common cold is a viral infection that mostly occurs during the winter months, although you can get a cold any time of the year. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that the average adult in the United States gets a cold two to four times annually. There is no cure for the common cold and the most effective way to prevent the spread of the viral infection is to wash your hands regularly, avoid people who appear to be sick and use instant hand sanitizers when water is not available. Common symptoms include coughing, sore throat, sneezing, runny nose, headache, a fever less than 102 F and fatigue.
Probiotics
Probiotics are sold as a dietary supplement and are found naturally in yogurt, cultured milk products and some cheeses. Probiotics are microorganisms that may help with bowel activity and maintain a healthy digestive system. While probiotics are not essential for your health, MayoClinic.com says that some scientific evidence shows that probiotics may prove helpful in treating diarrhea, preventing vaginal yeast infections, reducing irritable bowel syndrome symptoms, preventing eczema in children and possibly preventing or reducing the severity of the common cold.
Treating the Common Cold
The body's immune system must attack and expel the virus from the body in order for the cold symptoms to subside. Probiotics may help the immune system fight the virus off faster and more effectively. The University of Maryland Medical Clinic notes that some studies have shown that probiotics, when combined with other vitamins and minerals, diminished the severity and longevity of participants' cold symptoms. It is not clear, however, if this result is due to just probiotics, a combination of probiotics, vitamins and minerals, or vitamins and minerals alone.
Consideration
There is no federal regulation for probiotic supplements, so discuss use with your doctor first. MayoClinic.com suggests taking between 1 and 10 billion cells of probiotics daily in divided doses. The overuse of probiotics may cause stomach upset and abdominal discomfort. Do not use probiotics if you have a weakened immune system or artificial heart valves.
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