10 Tips to Topple a Cold

Green tea, probiotics, herbs and vitamin-spiked drinks promise to help fight nasty viruses lurking on doorknobs and phones.

But most of these products are more about marketing than strengthening the immune system, said Dr. Damon Schranz of the University of North Texas Health Science Center.

Here's what works and what doesn't:



1. Soap and water

Most colds are transmitted by shaking hands, but a 2006 survey found that only 34 percent of respondents washed their hands after coughing or sneezing. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are less effective than ordinary soap.

2. Probiotics

Long used in Europe, probiotic dairy drinks have hit the U.S. market with promising results. There's evidence to suggest probiotics can reduce respiratory symptoms and boost immunity. A cup of plain yogurt does the trick just as well.

3. Exercise

A half-hour of brisk walking most days can pay off. One study found that active people had 25 percent fewer colds than others. Walking appears to increase immune cells in the bloodstream, leading researchers to theorize exercise can fight off germs.

4. Eat fruits and veggies

Carrots, pumpkin, squash, spinach and broccoli are packed with immune-boosting carotenoids. Dried fruit, such as raisins, may also be helpful. This is a good practice year-round.

5. Avoid germs

Anything a sick person touches can get infested with germs, including money, mail, ATM keypads, credit cards, pens, shopping cart handles, etc. Take no chances. Use your own pen when signing receipts or to punch numbers on the ATM.

6. Echinacea

It's said to increase the number of infection-fighting white blood cells. A 2007 study found that echinacea cuts the chance of catching a cold by 58 percent and can reduce the duration of colds. That directly contradicted other major studies. Look for echinacea made by reputable companies to be sure the product actually contains the herb.

7. Green tea

Green tea's claim to fame is its antioxidants, which may help boost the immune system. But can it prevent the common cold? A 2007 study found the ingredients in green tea can enhance the body's immune system by 28 percent. It may not prevent a cold, but it does have other health benefits.

8. Vitamin C

Doctors say there's no evidence that vitamin C can prevent a cold, and they have decades of research to support that. Extra C may reduce the duration and severity of a cold, but not significantly.

9. Zinc

Several studies have found zinc nasal sprays can cut cold symptoms by a couple days. But other studies have shown it doesn't work. Use the nasal spray with caution until studies demonstrate the risk to smell. Zinc lozenges are also available.

10. Sleep

When people don't get enough sleep, the body's T lymphocytes, which help destroy infections, don't work as well. Even if extra sleep doesn't boost immunity, it makes people feel better.