'Tis The (Cold and Flu) Season
Cover your mouth when you cough. Sneeze into a tissue, please. WASH your hands!
Children hear the same refrains every year during cold and flu season. And, without fail, someone brings the bug home anyways. While it’s never fun for anyone to be on the receiving end of a cold or flu, it can be particularly problematic for young children.
Unlike adults, children’s immune systems lack the muscle memory needed to successfully fight off airborne pathogens, resulting in more sick days and more severe symptoms.
But not all hope is lost. Research suggests that taking elderberry during cold and flu season can help to ward off airborne pathogens and even cut sick time in half. And there’s no better way to get your young ones the natural immune support they need than with a tasty elderberry gummy.
However, there are several factors to consider when selecting an effective elderberry gummy.
At Smarter Reviews, we analyzed dozens of the top-rated children’s elderberry gummies on the market to bring you this helpful guide. Read on to learn what to look in for and what to avoid in a quality elderberry gummy, plus our top 5 picks of the year.
Benefits of Elderberry:
Enhances Immune System Defenses
Promotes Respiratory Health
Contributes to a Healthy Gut
Antiviral Properties
Stimulates Immune Cell Production
Helps Loosen Mucus
What is Elderberry?
There are several plants in the elder family, however, the European elder, sambucus nigra, is the only species known for its medicinal value.
For centuries, our ancestors have used elderberry to ward off the cold and flu and fight infections. Thanks to modern science, we have a deeper understanding of just how these incredible botanicals work.
Elderberries are chock full of antioxidants like vitamins A and C which help reduce inflammation. New research also suggests that elderberries play an active role in stimulating immune cell production.
While nearly all commercial elderberry products are recognized as safe and effective for children, you should always consult your healthcare provider before giving your child something new. With that in mind, here are a few tips on what to look for and what avoid in your child's elderberry gummy.
What To Look For:
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Sambucus Nigra (Pure Elderberry Extract)
Also known as European or Black Elder, this is the only version of elderberry has clinically demonstrated immune benefits.
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Vitamin C
Vitamin C helps prevent and treat respiratory and systemic infections by promoting immune cell function.
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Echinacea Purpurea Extract
- Echinacea purpurea helps stimulate an immune response to infections. It can also help reduce the length and severity of cold- and flu-like symptoms.
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Propolis Extract
- Propolis extract has been shown to help increase immune cells' ability to neutralize harmful pathogens.
What To Avoid
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Magnesium Stearate
This cheap filler is used to help bind ingredients together and lubricate the supplement so it doesn’t gum up when it is run through the manufacturing machines. Magnesium stearate adds no nutritional value and can become toxic to your system.
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Too much sugar
While it's natural for companies to add some sugar or other sweetener to elderberry gummies, however, too much sugar can lead to a host of adverse health outcomes, especially in children. We recommend finding a gummy that has 6 grams of sugar or less per serving.
Top 5 Elderberry Supplements Of 2020*
*All products listed below are intended for adult and child consumption.
