Go Ad-Free
logoThe People's Perspective on Medicine

Probiotics Against Colds

College dormitories are breeding grounds for colds and other upper respiratory infections. The young people in them live in close quarters and are often sleep-deprived. But research suggests that probiotics may increase their resistance to these viruses. Almost 200 students living on campus at Framingham State University in Massachusetts were given either a powdered probiotic containing Lactobacillus rhamnosus LGG and Bifidobacterium animalis ssp lactis BB12 or a look-alike placebo powder daily for 12 weeks. The volunteers also completed a daily survey. The investigators found that the students taking the probiotic still got colds, but their colds did not last as long. The symptoms were also less severe and less likely to keep them out of class. The study was funded by Chr. Hansen, the Danish manufacturer of the probiotic.
[British Journal of Nutrition, online Oct. 1, 2012]

Rate this article
star-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-emptystar-fullstar-empty
3.5- 2 ratings
About the Author
Joe Graedon is a pharmacologist who has dedicated his career to making drug information understandable to consumers. His best-selling book, The People’s Pharmacy, was published in 1976 and led to a syndicated newspaper column, syndicated public radio show and web site. In 2006, Long Island University awarded him an honorary doctorate as “one of the country's leading drug experts for the consumer.”.
Tired of the ads on our website?

Now you can browse our website completely ad-free for just $5 / month. Stay up to date on breaking health news and support our work without the distraction of advertisements.

Browse our website ad-free
Join over 150,000 Subscribers at The People's Pharmacy

We're empowering you to make wise decisions about your own health, by providing you with essential health information about both medical and alternative treatment options.