Cardiologist says 'most immune boosters you see on TikTok, Amazon do not boost immunity': Know 5 things that actually do

Immune boosters aren't a magic fix: here are the top 5 things to know about flu and cold season from Dr Dmitry Yaranov, a cardiologist.

Published on: Nov 26, 2025, 17:00:08 IST

By Sanya Panwar

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Most supplements and products claiming to boost immunity during flu and cold season don't work, so focus on basics like sleep, hydration, balanced diet, daily movement, and handwashing instead. Dr Dmitry Yaranov, a cardiologist specialising in heart transplants, and based in Tennessee, US, highlighted this in a new Instagram post, titled: 'Five things I would tell you this flu and cold season if I was not afraid of hurting your feelings'. Also read | Doctor recommends 10 superfoods to boost immunity and stay healthy

Dr Dmitry Yaranov said that "pushing through when you are sick is not strength"; he advised proper rest. (Freepik)

Immune boosters aren't a magic fix

He said in his November 25 post, “Most 'immune boosters' you see on TikTok or Amazon do not boost your immune system. They boost someone’s revenue. Your biology does not care about pretty packaging.”

Focus on the basics

According to Dr Yaranov, 'the real immune support is unglamorous' and includes:

⦿ Sleep

⦿ Hydration

⦿ A balanced diet

⦿ Daily movement

⦿ Washing your hands with intention

“If you ignore these and buy supplements instead, you are treating the marketing, not your immune system,” he shared.

Flu and cold can be serious

He added, “A cold that feels mild for a healthy 20-year-old is not mild for a 60-year-old or someone with heart disease. Viral illness puts stress on the heart, fluid balance, and lungs. Be mindful around parents, grandparents, and relatives with heart conditions. 'Just a little cold' is how preventable hospitalisations happen.”

Rest when you're sick

Dr Yaranov further advised: “Pushing through when you are sick is not strength. It is how people end up in the ER (Emergency room) in January. Rest early and recover faster. Ignore your body and it will force the lesson.”

Vaccines don't guarantee you won't get sick

He added, “Vaccines do not make you invincible. They lower the inflammation load and reduce stress on the heart if you get sick. Think seatbelt, not forcefield. A seatbelt does not stop the crash. It reduces the damage.”

Note to readers: This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Sanya Panwar
With a keen eye for detail and a heart for storytelling, Sanya is a seasoned lifestyle journalist who has spent over a decade documenting the intersection of aesthetics and substance. Since stepping into the media world in 2012, she has cultivated a career defined by versatility, curiosity, and an unwavering passion for what makes life both beautiful and meaningful. Over the last many years, she has navigated the fast-paced realms of health, wellness, fitness and fashion while pivoting seamlessly into the nuances of decor and travel. Her work often explores the deeper layers of modern living, delving into art and decor trends that transform spaces, insightful perspectives on gender, parenting, and mental health, immersive travel narratives that capture the essence of a destination. A self-proclaimed aesthetics enthusiast, Sanya doesn't just report on trends — she analyses them. Whether she’s identifying the next shift in fitness or discovering a breakthrough in design, she uses her platform to spark meaningful conversations that resonate with a contemporary audience. Sanya is an alumna of St. Xavier’s College, Kolkata, and the Asian College of Journalism (ACJ), Chennai, where she honed the investigative rigour she brings to her lifestyle reporting today. When she isn't chasing deadlines or conducting interviews, Sanya practices what she preaches. You’ll likely find her sipping matcha, practicing yoga, or scouting the newest cafes. Above all, she finds her balance in nature — whether it's a quiet hike or a moment of reflection in the outdoors, she remains constantly inspired by the tranquillity of the natural world.Read More

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