It is tempting to resort to over-the-counter remedies for a common cold or flu. But, rest is probably the best remedy. Moving around will only worsen your symptoms of a sore or sore throat. Additionally, resting will allow your body to recuperate from the fever and body aches associated with a cold or flu. One surprising natural cure for cold and flu is garlic, which boosts your immune system. Garlic is one natural remedy for flu symptoms. Garlic is rich in anti-inflammatory compounds and can fight the virus that causes colds.
Soup of chicken
Researchers at the University of Nebraska examined the effects of chicken broth on white blood cells. They also studied neutrophil movement. They found that the substance had an inhibitory effect on neutrophil migration, which could reduce the symptoms of a cold. The soup also reduced activity in the upper respiratory tract where cold symptoms are common. Researchers believe the soup has medicinal properties, although more research is required to confirm this.
Honey
Honey is an effective and delicious remedy for colds and flu. Honey can be consumed as a drink or mixed with warm water to soothe the congestion and throat. One teaspoon of honey can be mixed with a glass of warm water to soothe flu symptoms. Because honey's natural ingredients are anti-inflammatory, they can reduce the severity and duration of cold symptoms. To enhance the effect of honey, you can also add 1 teaspoon cinnamon.
Garlic
A supplement with garlic can be used in place of raw garlic. Both raw or cooked garlic can both be used to treat the flu and cold symptoms. They can boost immunity and reduce symptoms of colds. Rest and hydration are key to speeding up your recovery. To boost your immune system, you may consider taking a zinc supplement. Raw garlic is best. There is no scientific evidence that garlic can cure the common cold and flu.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C has existed for many decades. However, it has not always been a cure for colds. Linus Pauling (a Nobel Prize-winning chemical scientist) claimed that vitamin C could be used to prevent colds. However, this claim was later disproved. However, researchers now believe vitamin C can reduce the severity and frequency of colds. There is evidence to support their claims.
Hot showers
Hot showers are a great way to ease the symptoms of cold and flu. The hot water from hot showers causes mucus buildup and makes you feel more comfortable. Make a mini sauna in the bathroom, if you don’t have a hot shower. Inhaling the steam makes you feel instantly better.
Drinking lots and lots of fluids
Drinking plenty fluids for flu and cold remedies has several benefits. One, proper hydration can help the body use medications more efficiently, which will result in quicker relief. You should generally drink six to eight glasses daily for adults, but you should increase it if you experience symptoms. Electrolyte enhancement drinks can be another great option. These beverages replenish fluids that have been lost and can prevent symptoms becoming worse.
Vitamin C can reduce the severity of flu symptoms.
According to a recent study, taking 6 to 8 grams of vitamin C daily can reduce the duration of a cold or flu by as much as 20 percent. However, the optimal dose of vitamin C has not been established. These are because the results of existing studies don't show a clear dose-response relationship. Additionally, many trials have shown that higher doses of vitamin C are more effective than trials involving only a single dose of 1 gram of vitamin C.
FAQ
Does being cold give you a weak immune system?
Cold makes you weaker because you have less white blood cells to fight infection. However, being cold also makes you feel better because your body releases endorphins into your brain which reduce pain.
Exercise: Good or bad for immunity?
Exercise is good for your immune system. Exercise boosts the production of white blood cells, which can fight off infections. Your body also gets rid of toxins. Exercise is a great way to prevent heart disease, cancer, and other diseases. It reduces stress.
However, overtraining can damage your immune system. Your muscles can become sore if you exercise too much. This causes inflammation and swelling. Your body will then produce more antibodies in order to fight infections. However, these antibodies can also cause allergic reactions and autoimmune diseases.
So, don't overdo it!
What should I eat?
Eat lots of fruits and vegetables. They contain vitamins and minerals which help keep your immune system strong. Fruits and veggies are also high in fiber, which makes them filling and helps with digestion. At least five servings of fruits and vegetables should be consumed each day.
Make sure you drink plenty of water too. Water flushes toxins out of the body and helps to feel full between meals. Drink about eight glasses each day.
Choose whole grains over refined grains. Whole grains have all the nutrients they need, including B vitamins. Refined grains are stripped of some of their nutritional value.
Sugary drinks are best avoided. Sugary drinks are high in empty calories and can lead to obesity. Instead, drink water, milk, or unsweetened Tea.
Avoid fast food. Fast food has little nutritional value. It may taste great but it won't give you the energy you need to function properly. Instead, stick to healthier options such salads and soups as well sandwiches and pasta.
Limit alcohol intake. Avoid alcohol as it can cause empty calories and poor nutrition. Limit your intake of alcohol to two drinks per week.
Red meat consumption should be reduced. Red meats have high levels of cholesterol and saturated fat. Instead, choose lean cuts of beef and pork, lamb, chicken or fish.
Statistics
- The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend keeping added sugar intake below 10% of your daily calorie intake, while the World Health Organization recommends slashing added sugars to 5% or less of your daily calories for optimal health (59Trusted (healthline.com)
- This article received 11 testimonials and 86% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. (wikihow.com)
- According to the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, we should strive for at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity each week (54Trusted Source Smoking, harmful use of drugs, and alcohol abuse can all seriously negatively affect your health. (healthline.com)
- According to the 2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, a balanced diet high in fruits and vegetables, lean protein, low-fat dairy and whole grains is needed for optimal energy. (mayoclinichealthsystem.org)
External Links
How To
What does the word "vitamin" mean?
Vitamins are organic compounds that can be found in foods. Vitamins help us absorb nutrients from foods we eat. Vitamins cannot be made by the body; they must be taken from food.
There are two types vitamins: water soluble or fat soluble. Water-soluble vitamins dissolve readily in water. Examples include vitamin C,B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B6 (pyridoxine), folic acid, biotin, pantothenic acid, and choline. Fat soluble vitamins are stored in the liver and fatty tissue. You can find vitamin D, E K, A, beta carotene, and other fat-soluble vitamins.
Vitamins are classified based on their biological activity. There are eight major groups of vitamins:
-
A - Essential for healthy growth and health maintenance.
-
C is important for nerve function and energy production.
-
D - essential for healthy bones, teeth, and gums.
-
E is needed for good reproduction and vision.
-
K - Required for healthy nerves and muscles.
-
P – vital for building strong bones.
-
Q - aids digestion and absorption of iron.
-
R – Required for the formation of red blood vessels.
The recommended daily intake (RDA), of vitamins varies with age, gender and physical condition. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration sets RDA values.
For example, the RDA for vitamin A is 400 micrograms per dayfor adults 19 years or older. For fetal development, pregnant women need 600 mg per day. Children ages 1-8 require 900 micrograms per day. Babies under one-year old require 700 mg per day. Between 9 and 12 years of age, however, this drops to 500 mg per day.
Children aged between 1-18 years require 800 micrograms of sugar per day, while overweight children need 1000 micrograms. Children who are underweight receive 1200 micrograms every day to meet their nutritional requirements.
Children ages 4-8 years who have been diagnosed with anemia need 2200 micrograms per day of vitamin C.
2000 micrograms is the minimum daily intake for adults over 50 years old to maintain good health. Mothers who are pregnant, nursing, or have a high nutrient need will require 3000 micrograms a day.
1500 micrograms are required daily by adults over 70 because they lose approximately 10% of their muscle each decade.
Women who are pregnant, nursing or breastfeeding need more than the RDA. Pregnant and breastfeeding women require 4000 micrograms each day during pregnancy and 2500 Micrograms each day after delivery. Breastfeeding mothers need 5000 micrograms per day when breast milk is being produced.