Until today, there’s been no cure in sight for colds and flu. While popping pills can provide you with a temporary relief, it can put a toll on your health too. The good thing is there are safer and more effective ways to recover from winter sneezes. Here they are:
1.More fluids please.
Hydration is an essential aspect of the treatment process. According to Dr Sandra Adamson Fryhofer, internist and past president of the American College of Physicians, hydration keeps the nasal passages moist, preventing the bacteria from proliferating. If you have high fever that comes with vomiting or diarrhoea, taking sports drink may help as they contain electrolytes.
2.Snack on yogurt.
One study shows that taking probiotic supplements shortened the duration of colds from 6 days to 4. Yogurt is a healthy snack that contains billions of probiotics. It will not just make you feel better, but will also improve your immune system.
3.Take a rest.
Frequent sneezing, a symptom of pre-cold, can be an indication that you didn’t have enough sleep. Quality sleep is an essential aspect of a strong immune system. In a study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, it was found that people who slept for 7 hours or less were three times more prone to colds than those who get their 8 hours or more of sleep.
4.Gargle.
Got sore throat? Add a teaspoon of salt and dissolve it in warm water. Then, gargle using the solution four times every day. This provides a temporary relief to sore throat and helps reduce the bacteria that cause inflammation. You can also try the thick gargle made from honey and apple cider vinegar.
5.Be mindful.
Too much stress can take a toll on your immune system which makes you more susceptible to flu and colds. Researchers from the University of Wisconsin found that people who practised mindfulness meditation reduced the severity and risk of colds and flu by 35-60%.
6.Warm up your cold.
Hot fluids such as tea and soup help relieve nasal congestion and prevent dehydration. They also make you feel more comfortable by soothing the inflamed membranes that line in your throat.
7.Take a break from your workout.
Exercise is good but it may not be helpful if you have colds or flu. Remember, you need to rest. But if you can carry on with a mild workout, go on. Dr Fryhofer said you just have to listen to your body.
8.Take vitamin D.
It’s a well-known fact that colds and flu strike during colder, cloudier weather when the sun is hidden. Research suggests taking 800 to 1000 IU of vitamin D3 daily to reduce the risk of cold and speed up recovery.
9.Consider herbal remedies.
Other than green tea, there are other herbal remedies that are proven effective in treating flu and colds. They include ginseng, elderberry, garlic and Pelargonium sidoides.
10.Get a trace of Zinc
Study suggests that taking zinc within the day of the first symptoms of flu or cold can reduce the severity of your condition. Taking zinc supplements regularly also helps maintain a healthy immune system.
Dear Readers,
What methods do you find best for beating a cold or flu?
