Science Vs Immune Boosting: Is It a Bust?
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Mar 5, 2021 Guests include Tim Caulfield, Carol Johnston, Shiv Pillai, Niharika Duggal. Podcast explores the hype around immune boosters, including superfoods. Discusses the influencer culture and effectiveness of immune-boosting supplements. Separates science from myths regarding preventing illnesses like cold, flu, and COVID-19. Explores the potential of vitamin C, zinc, and vitamin D as immune boosters. Discusses the current research on vitamin D and natural immune boosters like elderberry and echinacea. Emphasizes the importance of exercise, sleep, and vaccines in boosting immunity.
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Instagram Fueled The Immune-Boost Trend
- Tim Caulfield scrolled hundreds of Instagram posts tagged "immune booster" to see trends.
- He found smoothies, vitamins, herbs, influencers, and people posing in yoga with supplements.
Sales Surged But Evidence Lagged
- Sales of zinc and elderberry surged during early COVID; demand spiked dramatically.
- Marketing momentum doesn't equal robust clinical evidence for protection.
Use Vitamin C To Ease Cold Symptoms
- Taking vitamin C likely won't prevent colds but can slightly reduce severity and shorten duration.
- Use vitamin C when symptomatic; side effects are minimal aside from possible diarrhea.