Between the chilly temperatures and Santa Ana winds, colds seem to spread like wildfire. How can you prevent and treat colds without strong medicines and trips to the doctor? Here are our top five cold prevention tips from Body Ecology:
- SLEEP! This may seem like a no-brainer, but with the busy lives we lead, it can be tough to get the recommended 8-10 hours of sleep each night. Without sleep, your body will have a much harder time fighting off cold viruses.
- VITAMIN C Supplements can be used to guarantee you get the right amount of vitamin C each day, but you'd be amazed how many foods can easily provide your daily dose of this cold-fighting vitamin. This list of foods with the most vitamin C is a great place to start--and you may be surprised to find that oranges aren't even at the top!
- AVOID SUGARS Yes, this is a tough one during the holiday cookie season, but sugars and acid-forming foods significantly increase your risk of contracting a cold, because they hinder your immune system.
- SMILE Seriously, studies show that people who laugh, smile and truly have fun once a day have stronger immune systems. (Plus, we all deserve a pick-me-up now and then!)
- FERMENTED FOODS & DRINKS Overall health starts in the digestive system and these foods and drinks make sure that system is running smoothly all the time.
And if the cold has already hit, try out this prescription of natural remedies:
- Thyme for a Cough
- Garlic for a Runny Nose
- Leafy Greens for Nosebleeds
- Jujube Tea for Sore Throats
- Carrots for Headaches
- Nuts for Energy
- Lavender for Anxiety
- Celery for Better Sleep
- Pineapple for Better Digestion
Contributed by Alyssa, Fairmont Private Schools
(Image from The Daily Green)
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