Latest news with #supplements
CNET
2 days ago
- General
- CNET
Sick? These Are the 7 Best Vitamins and Supplements for Shortening a Cold
While many people associate colds with the fall and winter seasons, you can get a cold any time of year. The CDC reports that on average, US adults have two to three colds each year, while children usually have more. Though there is no cure for the common cold, and antibiotics don't work against viruses, there are over-the-counter vitamins and supplements that can lessen your symptoms, shorten your cold's duration and even prevent colds from happening. Just make sure your doctor's aware. 7 over-the-counter supplements proven to shorten a cold There are plenty of supplements you can find at your local drugstore that can aid in knocking out a cold. Many of these are also great to take all year round for overall better health. These are the best vitamins for a cold and best supplements for fighting a cold. Elderberry People commonly reach for elderberry supplements when cold and flu season rolls around. Studies show that taking an elderberry supplement has been associated with shortening a flu. However, it should be noted that it won't prevent it or lessen the symptoms. The supplement has the potential to work much the same at the onset of a cold. Thanks to its antibacterial and antiviral properties, it may help get you back on your feet faster when a cold or flu knocks you down. Zinc According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, zinc supplements should be used with caution. Zinc should be taken orally, and it's been linked to shortening colds, especially if you take it right after cold symptoms start. However, many people take zinc intranasally, but this is not recommended. The NCCIH reports that this method of taking zinc has been proven to be dangerous and can lead to loss of smell. Zinc can also interact with antibiotics and penicillamine, so it is not recommended if you're on one of these medications. Some people have also experienced nausea when taking zinc. Echinacea There is little research on taking echinacea for colds. However, some studies report that taking echinacea not only lessened the likelihood of catching a cold but also shortened the length of colds. Other studies showed similar results, implying that taking echinacea when you catch a cold can help get rid of the cold faster than if you took nothing. This supplement is largely safe to take, though there is a potential for an allergic reaction. Vitamin C Vitamin C has been known to have a positive effect on shortening colds, though it is minimal, according to the NCCIH. In a study published by the organization, people who took vitamin C regularly didn't get colds any less frequently than those who didn't take it, but they did see less severe symptoms. It stands to reason that taking vitamin C on a regular basis can only have a positive effect on a cold, should you catch one. Taking too much vitamin C, though, has the potential to lead to gastrointestinal Pelargonium, a traditional medicine from Africa, has a rich history of being used to help fight illnesses. Studies have shown that taking pelargonium and its derivatives can reduce cold symptoms. One study showed that the earlier you took pelargonium after feeling cold symptoms, the more likely it was to fight those symptoms. Some over-the-counter cold medications have pelargonium in them, including Umcka Cold and Flu. Possible side effects include rash and pruritus (itching of the skin). Andrographis Andrographis is probably a supplement you haven't heard of before, but you can buy it in the supplement aisle at your drugstore. Some research on andrographis, an herb from South Asia, shows that when taken with ginseng, it can lighten the severity of a cold. When taken alone or with usual care, andrographis may shorten the duration of cough and for the throat. Possible side effects are also gastrointestinal, like the other diarrhea and vomiting. It's recommended to take the andrographis within 72 hours of feeling cold symptoms, and you could start seeing an improvement in symptoms in as little as two days. However, research suggests that it's more likely to take four to five days to see improvement. Vitamin D You might know about vitamin D's ability to support your bone health, but that's not all it can do. Some of vitamin D's other important powers are the ability to fight infection and boost your immune system. Studies show that taking a vitamin D supplement can stand up against the common cold and help it go away faster. These supplements can also fight off respiratory infections, which are another common illness people experience during cold and flu season. Risks of OTC supplements for colds Homeopathic remedies are hit or miss for people, but when it comes to the common cold, there aren't a whole lot of proven remedies to turn to. Natural treatments, like over-the-counter vitamin and mineral supplements, are a largely safe bet in trying to treat a cold. However, some of these, like zinc, can be problematic if not taken carefully. The most important thing to remember when taking OTC supplements is that you should consult your doctor -- especially if you have an underlying condition. Your doctor can help you pick out a natural remedy for your cold that will be safe for you. They can help you understand any risks that may be involved with each supplement and examine how they could potentially interact with any other supplements or medications you're taking. This is especially important to do if you're pregnant, as your doctor will want to monitor any supplements you're taking.
The Independent
3 days ago
- General
- The Independent
Why popular herbal supplements might be toxic for your liver
A growing number of liver damage and toxicity cases are linked to commonly used herbal and dietary supplements, and there has been a significant increase in people with supplement-related liver failure requiring transplants. Studies indicate that up to 20% of liver toxicity cases are connected to supplements, potentially leading to impaired liver function, liver failure, and, in severe cases, death, with over 50,000 liver disease-related deaths occurring annually. Common supplements like turmeric, black cohosh, red yeast rice, Garcinia cambogia, and green tea extract have been identified as potentially harmful, especially in high doses, and may not be accurately labeled. Experts highlight that supplements are not subject to the same rigorous testing as prescription drugs, leading to potential risks, and that many patients do not inform their doctors about their supplement use, increasing the danger. Symptoms of liver damage from supplements include fever, fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, and jaundice; with researchers advocating for increased awareness and caution in supplement use to prevent future deaths.
The Independent
3 days ago
- General
- The Independent
Common herbal supplements taken by millions of Americans could be linked to deadly liver damage
Commonly-used herbal and dietary supplements taken by millions of Americans to stay healthy have been tied to a rising number of cases of liver damage and toxicity. Supplement-related liver failure that required U.S. patients to be put on a waitlist for a transplant increased by eight times the previous level from 1995 through 2020, according to a 2022 study in the journal Liver Transplantation. Another study found that 20 percent of liver toxicity cases around the country are linked to the supplements, according to research published in the journal Hepatology. The result of the damage can be life-threatening. Liver disease results in more than 50,000 deaths each year, according to federal health officials. The result of the drug-induced liver injury known as hepatotoxicity can be impaired liver function and liver failure. Cases of hepatotoxicity may be rare, but it remains unclear just how rare. Still, some 15 million Americans are using supplements containing ingredients that are potentially harmful to the liver. 'I think people assume these things are safe,' Dr. Dina Halegoua-De Marzio, a Jefferson Health hepatologist, told NBC News. 'The No. 1 reason we see people taking these are for good health or to supplement their health, and so I don't think that they realize that there is a real risk here.' So, what are the offending supplements tied to these cases? You may regularly use them in cooking. Many patients take them with the aim of improving their health. The bright yellow spice turmeric is the most commonly consumed in the U.S., according to a study published last year in the journal JAMA Network Open. Black cohosh, red yeast rice, Garcinia cambogia, and green tea extract were also identified on a list compiled by researchers at the University of Michigan. 'When you cook with turmeric, that could be really safe. But some of the supplements now are 2,000 milligrams plus, which is a very high dose of turmeric,' Halegoua-De Marzio said, noting that adding black pepper could make the liver 'really sick.' Online, many of these supplements are promoted as more natural options than prescription medications. But, they are not subject to the same kind of testing and scrutiny as other drugs. That's not the only issue. Physicians say insufficient attention in medical screenings and mislabeling are two other problems to be aware of. 'We performed analytical chemistry and found about a 50 percent mismatch between stated ingredients on the label and what they actually contained, which is quite alarming,' Dr. Robert Fontana, a University of Michigan Medicine hepatologist, said in a statement. 'If you buy a supplement and it says it has a certain ingredient, it's basically a coin flip if that's true or not.' Fewer than 40 percent of patients willingly tell their doctors about the supplements they are taking, according to Kaiser Permanente primary care physician Dr. Crystal Xue. Without the guiding hand of doctors, people who take too much may not realize the risk. New Jersey's Robert Grafton told NBC News that if he hadn't been in the medical field, he might have taken more supplements to help him feel better. Instead, following a trip to the hospital, he found out he had a drug-induced liver injury after taking ashwagandha, turmeric pills, and other supplements. Some people are even genetically vulnerable to this kind of damage. Although, that's also true for prescription drugs. Symptoms of liver damage and toxicity can differ, but generally include fever, fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, urine changes, and jaundice. There are some 44,000 estimated cases of liver damage associated with the drugs each year, including 2,700 deaths. That number is likely an undercount. People can still take supplements, given they do so safely. However, given the lack of regulation in this area, researchers hope to raise awareness about the issue to try to prevent future deaths. 'We're not trying to create alarm,' Fontana said. 'We're just trying to increase awareness that the over-the-counter supplements people are taking and buying have not been tested nor necessarily proven to be safe,' he said.
Associated Press
5 days ago
- Business
- Associated Press
NutraDoodle Paws the Market with New Line of Premium Canine Supplements
NutraDoodle introduces a new line of fun yet effective supplements for dogs, with a focus on holistic, non-GMO ingredients to improve canine wellness. United States, May 28, 2025 -- NutraDoodle: Revolutionizing Dog Wellness with Premium Supplements NutraDoodle, a new and innovative brand, is quickly making a mark in the canine wellness industry with a unique approach to dog health supplements. Founded by Lisa Williams, the brand was born out of a personal need when Williams' own Bernedoodle struggled with joint and hip issues. After trying numerous supplements without success, Williams took matters into her own hands, creating NutraDoodle, a company that combines the best of nature and science to craft premium, effective, and delicious supplements for dogs. NutraDoodle is committed to offering high-quality products that cater to a wide range of dog health issues, including joint health, digestion, anxiety, and more. The brand stands out by prioritizing clean ingredients that are both holistic and non-GMO, ensuring that every product is safe, effective, and made with love in the USA. A Fun, But Serious Approach to Dog Health NutraDoodle's approach to canine wellness is both serious and fun. While many dog owners often find it difficult to get their furry friends to take supplements, NutraDoodle has cracked the code. Williams focused on creating products that not only benefit a dog's health but also taste great. The brand's playful product names—like 'Chill Dood' for calming chews and 'Regular Dood' for probiotics—speak to the fun and lighthearted side of the business. However, behind these catchy names lies a serious commitment to providing dogs with high-quality nutrition. 'The toughest part was finding a supplement that my dog would actually eat,' says Williams. 'It was frustrating, but it gave me the inspiration to create something that would work for all dogs. Our products are not only effective, but they are also designed to be tasty and enjoyable for dogs, no matter how picky they are.' NutraDoodle is also BPA-free, ensuring that every product is free from unnecessary chemicals. The brand's dedication to using only the best ingredients means that every dog—regardless of breed—can benefit from improved health and wellness. And despite its playful exterior, NutraDoodle maintains a serious commitment to delivering results. Made in the USA: A Promise of Quality and Integrity In an industry where claims of 'Made in the USA' are often used without verification, NutraDoodle stands firm in its commitment to quality. Every product is crafted and manufactured in the United States, ensuring full transparency and accountability in the production process. 'We take pride in offering a product that is truly made in the USA,' says Williams. 'It's important to us that we not only create a premium product but also support local businesses and ensure that our customers can trust where their products are coming from.' Giving Back to Rescue Organizations In addition to offering premium products, NutraDoodle is passionate about making a difference in the lives of dogs in need. Williams is actively working with several rescue organizations to donate NutraDoodle products to dogs that are struggling with various health issues, such as allergies, skin and coat conditions, and anxiety. 'I've always believed in doing good and giving back,' says Williams. 'NutraDoodle is not just about selling products; it's about helping dogs live their best, healthiest lives, whether they're a beloved pet or a rescue.' The Future of NutraDoodle With an eye on the future, NutraDoodle is looking to expand its range of products to meet even more canine health needs. Williams is eager to build the brand into a trusted name that dog owners can rely on for premium supplements that work. Her extensive background in business has played a crucial role in the successful launch and growth of NutraDoodle. 'We're just getting started,' says Williams. 'NutraDoodle has the potential to become a brand that dog owners everywhere can rely on for effective, high-quality nutrition.' As the brand continues to grow, NutraDoodle's commitment to quality, transparency, and fun will continue to set it apart in the crowded market of dog wellness. About NutraDoodle NutraDoodle is a premium canine wellness brand focused on crafting high-quality, effective, and delicious supplements for dogs. Founded by Lisa Williams, the brand uses only holistic, non-GMO ingredients to promote joint health, digestion, and overall well-being for dogs of all breeds. Made with care in the USA, NutraDoodle offers products that dogs love to eat and owners trust for their health benefits. NutraDoodle is committed to supporting rescue organizations and giving back to dogs in need. Media Contact Lisa Williams, Owner NutraDoodle Phone: 702-275-7600 Email: [email protected] Contact Info: Name: Lisa Williams Email: Send Email Organization: NutraDoodle Website: Release ID: 89161106 In the event of any inaccuracies, problems, or queries arising from the content shared in this press release, we encourage you to notify us immediately at [email protected] (it is important to note that this email is the authorized channel for such matters, sending multiple emails to multiple addresses does not necessarily help expedite your request). Our diligent team will be readily available to respond and take swift action within 8 hours to rectify any identified issues or assist with removal requests. Ensuring the provision of high-quality and precise information is paramount to us.
New York Times
5 days ago
- Business
- New York Times
Inside the Arms Race to Create a Better Lactose Intolerance Pill
When Derrick Barreiro dines out, he has to make a quick cost-benefit analysis. Vegan dishes are a safe bet, but sometimes Mr. Barreiro, who is lactose intolerant, takes the risk and eats something that contains milk or cheese. In those cases, he opens his wallet, rips open a packet of Lactaid tablets and pops them into his mouth. 'People know I leave a trail of Lactaid wrappers wherever I go,' said Mr. Barreiro, a creative director in Brooklyn. 'They're like my bread crumbs.' Even so, the supplements don't always work. 'It can still be a gamble even if I take a few before eating.' Mr. Barreiro is exactly the type of person being targeted by a new class of supplements containing lactase — the enzyme that helps the body digest lactose, a sugar in dairy products — each promising higher efficacy, more convenient packaging, healthier ingredients or some combination of the three. In 2023, Khai Pham left his job at an orthodontics start-up to create Milky, a supplement that contains about 20 percent more lactase than a Lactaid Fast Act tablet but is half as thick and can easily fit into a wallet. Want all of The Times? Subscribe.
