Cold
Author: Colleen Palat
The common cold is as common as white bread. Everyone has had
several versions of the cold, so we can all agree it's not fun.
The runny noses, cough, sore throat, and pounding head - what a
miserable time!
Did you know there are 200 respiratory viruses? That's a lot of
virus! With all the viruses floating out there, what can we do
to ward off, or at least minimize, the effects of the common
cold?
How can I avoid or minimize the common cold?
The best way to beat the cold is to wash your hands frequently
and use disinfectants on surfaces such as doorknobs, drawer
pulls, telephones, and counter tops. Giving yourself an immune
system boost by following a nutrient filled diet can also
greatly enhance your
body's ability to attack the cold, thus minimizing the effects
of the cold or avoiding it all together.
What kinds of foods should I eat?
Including fruits and vegetables in abundance will help to
improve your immune system and its ability to attack invading
viruses. Take a look at the list below and try to include as
much of these options as possible.
Fruits and Vegetables Rich in Vitamin C & E: These will help
keep the immune system strong. Try citrus fruits, strawberries,
red peppers, and broccoli. To get a good amount of vitamin E,
try sprinkling wheat germ on your cereal, salad, or yogurt.
Fruits and Vegetables Rich in Beta-Carotene: Try dark leafy
vegetables like spinach and bright orange fruits and veggies
such as sweet potatoes and cantaloupe.
Water: In a dry environment, germs multiply. Make sure to drink
at least eight - 8 oz. of water a day to hydrate your body and
make it hostile to invading viruses.
OK - So I have a cold. What should I eat?
Below is a list of some food items you can add to your diet to
help you get through a cold as painlessly as possible.
Chicken Soup: Research suggests that chicken soup contains
compounds that reduce respiratory inflammation, as well as
providing hydration for the body. Who knew that the soup our
mother gave us as a child actually does a lot to heal the common
cold!
Herbs: Echinacea, which boosts the immune system, Goldenseal,
and Sage are all fantastic herbs to use when battling a cold.
Zinc: Taking zinc lozenges can help to cut a fever, cough, and
mucus build-up especially when taken at the first sign of a
cold. The downside is that they taste awful!
Vitamin C Supplements: The daily value for vitamin C is 60mg.
Those who recommend mega dosing vitamin C when a cold arises
suggest 1000 mg.
Now before you decide to prescribe different supplements for
your symptoms, always check with your doctor first. They will be
able to give you a thorough check up and recommend certain
remedies that are special to your needs.
So, the next time you get a cold or feel one coming on,
practice the above dietary recommendations and minimize the
effects of the common cold.
About The Author: Colleen is a health and fitness enthusiast
who loves to pass on the latest information on health and
wellness. Sign up for your free e-newsletter filled with
cutting-edge information on health, nutrition, weight loss, and
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