Folate benefits in colds unclear[Dietary efficacy of a micronutrient combination in patients with recurrent upper respiratory tract infections. Results of a placebo-controlled double-blind study].
Combined micronutrient effects studied
We explored the effectiveness of a special combination of micronutrients, including folate, in helping patients who suffer from recurrent upper respiratory tract infections, commonly known as colds. Our study involved 192 participants over 16 weeks in a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial that allowed us to compare results objectively.
The findings indicate that patients who had vitamin D deficiency or were low in vitamin C experienced significant benefits when taking the micronutrient combination, and symptoms improved notably compared to those on a placebo. Specifically, individuals with multiple cold symptoms showed greater relief in the active group, with a significant reduction in symptom intensity.
While folate was part of the mix, the study did not isolate its specific impact on cold symptoms. Instead, it highlighted the effectiveness of the whole nutrient combination in reducing the frequency of colds and the intensity of symptoms. Overall, those who received the micronutrient supplement reported improved health outcomes compared to those who didn't.
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Folate combined with nutrients aids colds[Dietary efficacy of a micronutrient combination in patients with recurrent upper respiratory tract infections. Results of a placebo-controlled doubleblind study.].
Folate's isolated impact unclear
We explored the impact of a special combination of micronutrients, including folate, on patients who frequently suffer from upper respiratory tract infections (URIs). In our study, 192 participants were enrolled in a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial lasting 16 weeks to assess how these nutrients affected the course and intensity of their colds.
We found that individuals with at least two cold symptoms at the beginning of the study showed significantly more improvement when taking the micronutrient combination compared to those on placebo. Notably, patients with vitamin D deficiency and/or low vitamin C reported fewer cold episodes in the active treatment group.
While folate was part of the nutrient mix, the study didn't isolate its specific effects on cold symptoms. However, we did observe that overall nutrient levels increased in the active group, which may link to lesser cold severity and fewer job absences during episodes among younger participants.
Ultimately, although we cannot definitively state how folate alone affects cold symptoms, it was part of an effective nutritional approach that shows promise for those prone to recurrent respiratory infections.
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