 | Robb Rose is Director of Marketing Operations at Wesley Rehabilitation Hospital of Wichita. Robb is also a Respiratory Therapist, Boarded Disability Analyst and Adjunct Faculty for Wichita Sate University. He holds a Masters in Human Resources from Webster University. Robb serves on the American Lung Association Regional Council and the American Heart Association Board of Directors. Robb is married and has 2 children. He can be reached at (316) 729-9999 |
Health & Rehabilitation
2004-10-01 15:07:00
Does Vitamin E prevent the flu?
ANSWER: Generally speaking, anything that keeps your autoimmune system healthy or strengthened can lessen your chances of an infection, or lessen the severity and duration of the infection. This can include vitamins, exercise, eating healthy, drinking clear fluids; and avoiding high fat foods, alcohol, and smoke. Some health care professionals even suggest elderberries or any dark berry due to their high level of antioxidants, and locally produced honey. As for Vitamin "E" specifically there was a study published in the August edition of "JAMA" (i.e. Journal of the American Medical Association), in which 600 people over the age of 65 were followed to see if Vitamin "E" had an effect on the common cold and upper respiratory infections. These individuals lived in retirement centers in the Boston Mass-achusetts area. The individuals were randomized to take 200 IU of Vitamin "E" or a placebo. Interestingly, the people receiving Vitamin "E" did demonstrate a protective effect on upper respiratory infections (i.e. ear, nose, throat), and specifically the common cold. The investigators felt that this does merit further study.One cannot say that Vitamin "E" specifically prevents an infection, but it appears that it can lessen your chances of the common cold or an upper respiratory tract infection. Practicing good hand washing technique often, and covering ones mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing go a very long way in preventing any respiratory infection.
