Combatting the Common Cold
Ahhhhchu! It’s dreaded cold season again. As awful
as we feel, we don’t always have time to hide in bed and
wait for the worst to pass. Here’s what you can do to fight
that nasty rhinovirus before it has a chance to knock you right
out of the ring.
Eat Healthy, Stay Healthy
Eating a diet that’s low in carbohydrates is a wise preventative
move since carbs can actually weaken your immune system. Cut back
on breads, pastas and other carb-heavy foods to give yourself
a fighting chance.
Did you know that garlic and onions are natural immune boosters?
Your grandmother was on the right track when she insisted Chicken
Soup was a “cure” for colds. It certainly might help
if it includes immune boosting garlic and veggies -- carrots help
heal inflamed mucous membranes.
Taking a daily multi-vitamin formulated for your age group and
activity level can help keep you healthy… or at least keep
you in fighting condition for when a cold does come calling.
Drink Up!
As soon as you feel that tickle in your throat, grab a glass of
juice that’s high in Vitamin C. You can also try cups of
warm Echinacea tea for its healthy herbal effects -- a spoonful
of honey gets that bitter taste out.
If you’re the do-it-yourself type, try a delicious home-brew
Lemon Ginger tea. Peel and slice some raw ginger, drop it into
a big mug with a slice or two of fresh lemon and steep in boiling
water. Let it cool, then sip. Its refreshing citrus taste packs
a serious punch.
As always, keep drinking your 8 glasses of water each day. Hydrated
skin looks healthy even when you’re not.
Heat Things Up
When your head feels full of cotton-batten and breathing becomes
a chore, a quick fix can be found in the bathroom. Let a hot shower
run a few minutes until the room fills up with steam. Now, breathe
easy! The steam helps clear those congested sinuses so you can
start your day with a clearer head.
Here’s a helpful hint for when you’re on the go: Holding
a steamy mug of water under your nose can achieve similar clearing-effects.
Do a Little Every Day
While it’s true that bed rest helps your body get back on
its feet -- staying stationary can sometimes make you feel worse.
If you’re sick of sitting on the couch, kick off the covers
and find something low-key to do. Bundle up and take a short walk
around the block. Moving around helps loosen congestion and it
gives you something to do.
Get Well Soon!
Don’t forget to get all the sympathy you need from your
family and friends. There’s nothing like being taken care
of for a change to help you feel better fast.
Do you have a tried and true method for combating a cold? *Share
it with us at editor@beingbeautiful.ca
Editor’s note: Consult with your doctor if you are concerned
about your symptoms.
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