Cold season is in full swing, and while many people are already battling the sniffles, new research suggests that a simple piece of candy might be the key to easing one of the most frustrating symptoms, tiredness and lack of alertness.
Seasonal changes bring more illness
As autumn sets in and temperatures begin to drop, people become more susceptible to viral infections.
The colder weather drives us indoors, where viruses spread more easily, leading to a rise in colds, flu, and other respiratory illnesses.
Researchers found a surprising solution
A team from Cardiff University discovered that sucking on peppermint candies doesn’t just taste refreshing, it can actually make people feel more alert, even when they have a cold.
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The study involved 81 participants
A total of 81 people took part in the 10-week study, during which researchers closely monitored how eating candy affected participants’ mood, performance, and reaction time while they were sick.
Some participants fell ill during the trial
Out of the 81 volunteers, 17 developed a mild illness during the study, giving scientists an opportunity to compare the effects between sick and healthy individuals.
Participants were given different candies
Of those who became sick, six were given peppermint candy, six received butterscotch, and five were given no candy at all, allowing the team to measure the differences in response.
The healthy group was also tested
Among the 64 participants who remained healthy, 21 ate peppermint candy, 22 received placebo sweets, and 21 didn’t eat any candy.
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Results showed increased alertness in both groups
Both sick and healthy participants who ate peppermint candy demonstrated improved alertness and faster reaction times compared with those who didn’t.
The effect lies in the body’s signaling
The researchers concluded that peppermint likely works by calming and balancing the signals between the body and the brain, helping to boost mental clarity and focus.
Lead researcher explains the findings
Dr. Andy Smith, who led the study, explained that people suffering from mild upper respiratory tract infections often experience general discomfort and fatigue, which can affect concentration and performance.
However, something as simple as eating peppermint candy might help relieve these effects.
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Peppermint can enhance overall wellbeing
He added that aromatic scents such as mint have previously been shown to positively affect both physical and mental wellbeing, in sick and healthy individuals alike, which supports the idea that peppermint could be beneficial during illness.
A simple and affordable method
It’s an inexpensive and easily accessible way to support wellbeing during cold season.
This article is based on information from The Sun.
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