No, there's no strong scientific proof Airborne can prevent or cure colds, despite past false claims leading to lawsuits; it's essentially a vitamin supplement, but if you feel it helps, it's likely a placebo effect, though zinc might slightly shorten cold duration if present in sufficient doses. Real prevention relies on handwashing, rest, fluids, and avoiding sick people, while Airborne is just an overpriced vitamin mix.
There is nothing in Airborne that has been proven to do anything with preventing colds. Even the vitamin C has been shown through studies not to have any effect on an oncoming cold.
Key Takeaways
Airborne supplements contain vitamins and herbs that are said to support immune health, but there is no strong evidence they can prevent or cure colds.
Key Takeaways. Both Airborne and Emergen-C aim to boost the immune system with high-dose vitamin C and other ingredients. Airborne contains herbs and fat-soluble vitamins, while Emergen-C has B vitamins and more sugar. More study is needed to prove how effective they are and which one may be more helpful for you.
“There's no credible evidence that what's in Airborne can prevent colds or protect you from a germy environment,” said CSPI senior nutritionist David Schardt, who reviewed Airborne's claims. “Airborne is basically an overpriced, run-of-the-mill vitamin pill that's been cleverly, but deceptively, marketed.”
The FTC complaint also states that the individual defendants in the case, company founders Victoria Knight-McDowell and Thomas John McDowell, made false claims that Airborne products are clinically proven to treat colds.
There's no cure for a cold. You have to let it run its course. Most colds go away on their own within seven to 10 days and don't turn into anything more serious.
While it is never advised to eat Airborne® like candy or take more than advised on the label, a one-time, accidental, larger-than-normal dose is typically well tolerated with limited symptoms. Some of the ingredients can be irritating to the stomach, causing stomach upset with possible nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Choose immune-boosting nutrients
And while you can certainly use Airborne tablets to jazz up your water every once in a while, do not do this daily. One large dose of vitamins isn't going to hurt you, but taking excessive amounts over a longer period of time could.
But some studies have found that taking vitamin C before cold symptoms start may shorten how long symptoms last. Vitamin C may help people at high risk of colds because they're often in contact with the viruses that cause colds. For instance, children who go to group child care during the winter are at high risk.
Taking Airborne Effervescent Tablets is a great way to boost your immune system and get other nutrients. Airborne is high in antioxidants, giving you vitamins a, c, and e. It is also a great source of zinc and selenium, which support the cell function of several different immune cells.
Top highlights. VITAMIN C 1000mg: Airborne immune support effervescent tablets are packed with 1000mg Vitamin C per serving, which helps support your immune system.
Supplements to Boost Immunity This Cold and Flu Season
Most people with cold symptoms (runny nose, cough, sore throat) will not require specific treatment. They can take steps to manage their symptoms and prevent spreading the virus. However, there are rare cases when a viral infection can lead to a bacterial infection, like pneumonia, which requires antibiotics.
Dr. Cassel says most of the things people take to boost their immune system, such as vitamins or supplements, don't have any effect on your immune response.
Five signs of a weak immune system include frequent infections, slow-healing wounds, persistent fatigue, ongoing digestive issues, and getting sick with things that last a long time, like a cold that lingers or severe infections requiring strong treatment. These indicate your body struggles to fight off pathogens or repair itself effectively.
A study from the University of Southern California has revealed that fasting for 72 hours can trigger a complete regeneration of the immune system.
See six tips below.
Because it is sold as a dietary supplement and not a drug, current American law allows Airborne to be marketed without prior review and approval of testing results demonstrating that it provides a medical remedy. There are no studies supporting Airborne's effectiveness that meet scientific standards.
12 However, it can also interact with certain supplements and medications, potentially affecting the absorption, effectiveness, safety, or metabolism of these nutrients.
Stay Hydrated
That means that one of the best steps you can take to fend off a cold is to drink plenty of clear fluids like water, juice, or broth. Staying hydrated not only helps prevent dehydration, but it can also help improve immune function, loosen congestion, and soothe a dry, scratchy throat.
Do
Here's a guide to what works and what to avoid.