The common cold and flu- a fact of life for most people are common infections caused by viruses, usually lasting for a few days. But even though it’s so common and it takes around 1-2 weeks to recover fully, most of us are not quite sure what to do when they or their family member have got one. Viruses continue to change with time; making people susceptible throughout their lives and the discouraging truth is that people with immune systems weakened by stress are especially at risk. The first thing is to identify whether your cold is really a cold; it could be the flu or some kind of allergy. Once you know that it’s common cough & cold, here’s what you can do about it.
SIMPLE TIPS TO HELP RELIEVE THE DISCOMFORT
•Drink warm liquids/ hot soups as it not only helps your lungs do their job, the warm moisture loosens the mucus and makes it easier for your lungs to cough it up.
•If you have a runny nose, try to put up with it as this is your body’s natural way of flushing out the virus that caused your cold in the first place so give some time and allow your body to do its job.
•Since ancient times, hot tea with honey has been a staple in homes; some people feel better with hot, clear soups (chicken soup with some veggies).
•Adequate rest and good sleep is quintessential.
A healthy and nutritious diet will help your body fight the infections more effectively. So go ahead and look through your kitchen; you will find a variety of foods that can help speed your recovery and keep you healthy.
TOP 5 FOODS
Water — Drinking plenty of water and other warm liquids forms the very first defence system and will work as natural healers.
Garlic — Throwing some minced garlic into your favourite soup will not only bolster your immune system along with keeping the viruses at bay.
Vitamin C — Enjoy a balanced diet rich in guava, orange, lemon, red & green peppers, strawberries, gooseberry, cantaloupe, kiwi, etc.
Beta carotene — Your best bet would be to eat lots of carrots, pumpkin, sweet potato, kale, spinach, apricots, cantaloupe, broccoli etc.
Zinc — Aim to include healthy sources like chicken, lamb, turkey, beans, barley and wheat as a part of a balanced diet.
While you or your loved ones are down with cold and flu, the last thing you feel like doing is eating. It’s OK to eat a little less while you are fighting with cold and flu, still you will have to eat the right foods to provide you with energy and nutrients to sail through it.
Though we have no sure way to protect ourselves from getting colds, but washing your hands regularly and managing stress levels well will strengthen the immune system.
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