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The Cold Solution

Photo of study participants
  Students wait to receive a dose of cold virus in one of Ron Turner's studies

When it comes to combating colds or other ailments, both sides advise consumers to educate themselves as much as possible. The FDA and the National Institutes of Health offer information about current research on dietary supplements. Consumers should consult their health professionals with any questions or concerns.

So what's the best way to cope with the sniffles? Drink hot fluids, rest, and don't hope for the quick fix. There is still no antidote for the common cold, though some may believe they know otherwise.

"Often there is simply the perception after taking something that you got better faster," says Turner. "The truth is, no matter what you do, you'll get better."

In the end, it may actually be our faith in certain products that speeds our recovery. Studies have shown that placebos can have a powerful effect on curing illness, including the common cold. Stay tuned to Frontiers for more on the placebo effect.

WEB SITES

NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH, Office of Dietary Supplements

FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, Dietary Supplement page

WELLNESS GUIDE TO DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS, published by UC Berkeley

CONSUMER HEALTHCARE PRODUCTS ASSOCIATION (CHPA)

WEB M.D.
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