The common cold is a nuisance, and happens when our immune system is not strong enough to fight off bacteria and viruses.
The common cold is generally caused by a variety of rapidly mutating viruses that attack us when we are not strong enough to fight them.
We are actually surrounded by these viruses all the time, but don't necessarily catch anything unless our immune system is depressed.
Here are some tips on how to fight the common cold naturally.
Fight the Common Cold With an Optimal Diet The common cold brings about symptoms which include sneezing, sore throat, nasal congestion, headaches, coughing and a fever.
You can actually prevent getting the cold by feeding your body healthy, natural foods.
Consuming a healthy diet is the best way to keep your immune system strong enough to fight the viruses we are always exposed to.
Certain vitamins and minerals are essential to boost the immune system, and therefore fight off contagious viruses.
For example, vitamins C and D are said to be vital in fighting off flu-like viruses.
Other essential vitamins include vitamin A, zinc and selenium.
It is just as important to stay away from certain foods during cold and flu season.
Certain foods actually depress the immune system, and make us more susceptible to catching a cold.
Foods high in refined sugar, allergenic foods and alcoholic consumption lower our immune system's strength.
What You Should Do If You Catch a Cold If you are struck with the cold virus, the first thing you should do is rest.
Your immune system functions best when your body is at rest and is relaxed.
Rest is absolutely vital.
When you are relaxed or sleeping, your body's energy can focus on the immune system's ability to rid the body of this virus.
Keep well hydrated if you get sick.
Keeping the membranes of the respiratory tract hydrated reduces the viruses ability to grow rapidly.
In addition, white blood cells function better when the body is well hydrated.
Staying away from sugars while you have a cold is also beneficial, as sugar can reduce the white blood cell's function by reducing the amount of vitamin C that is brought to the body's cells.
Load up on the vitamin C, as this vitamin can lessen the severity of cold symptoms, and can get you through the cold faster.
Preventing or fighting off the common cold can be done by using simple, natural therapies.
By simply eating healthy, reducing sugar, increasing essential vitamins, drinking plenty of water and getting ample rest, you can really help your immune system fight off these viruses.