colds. There is some evidence that when taken every two hours, at the first sign of a cold, this supplement can reduce the severity and duration of a cold. While they may not taste very good, people find that they can help to sooth a sore throat. But don't use more than is recommended; higher doses of zinc can actually suppress the immune system. So use them only when you have a cold. The most common side effect when using zinc lozenges is an upset stomach. Zinc can also interfere with the absorption of some

antibiotics; so ask your Peoples Pharmacist if zinc is right for you.
. .. Perhaps the most popular supplement for colds and flus is a special ginseng extract called Cold-Fx. There are a few good studies that have shown that Cold-Fx can reduce the severity of cold and flu symptoms. In one study, people who took 400mg of Cold-Fx daily for 4 months had 25% fewer colds and flus. These same people also had over 30% reduction in severity and length of their colds or flus. There have been few reported side effects with Cold-Fx use. In theory, ginseng products can interfere with prescription blood thinning medications (warfarin). Therefore people who take warfarin should avoid using Cold-Fx.
. .. This wouldn't be a complete article about cold cures if I didn't include vitamin C. A favorite of Dr. Linus Pauling, vitamin C can help fight off colds and flus. It usually works best when taken continuously, not just when you have a cold. There has been some recent news suggesting that too much vitamin C might not be good for you. There is little evidence to suggest that doses less than 1000mg daily have any ill effects. Higher doses might cause an upset stomach or diarrhea.
. .. I am a big fan of nasal rinses to help with sinus congestion. While the idea of squirting large amount

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