Now that summer is nothing more than a distant memory, it seems as though it is time to embrace the cooler temperatures and the change in pace. The days feel shorter thanks to it getting darker earlier, bundling up becomes a necessity as you prepare to leave the house, and unfortunately, this also sparks the start of cold and flu season. The common cold is something that can hit anyone, of any age, and any health, leaving you feeling miserable for a few days, or a couple of weeks depending on the severity of the bug.
Before the season kicks into high gear, it may be useful to arm yourself with some hacks that will help you to recover from your cold quicker and more effectively. Preventative measures can be taken, as well as handy tips during your bout of the common cold. Let’s take a closer look.
It Starts with Preventative Measures
Obviously, the best way to kick a cold is to not catch one in the first place. Of course, this is a whole lot easier said than done, especially if everyone around you seems to be down for the count. With that said there are some simple preventative measures that you can take that will help boost your immune system so you can better ward off the germs. Preventative measures include:
- Eating a healthy well-balanced diet filled with vitamins and nutrients
- Getting enough sleep each and every night
- Getting at least 30 minutes of exercise or activity each day
- Practice good hand-washing techniques at all times
- Stop touching your face (eyes, mouth, and nose), as this is a way to expose germs to your body
- Don’t smoke
- Make sure you disinfect household surfaces if others in the house are sick
- Don’t share utensils and cups/glasses with other members in the household
Introduce Supplements to Your Lifestyle
Another tip is to look into supplements that you can take on a regular daily basis that will also help to give your body a boost your health needs. Take, for example, the celery juice powder from Basik Nutrition, it doesn’t get much more convenient than this product. This powder will hydrate your body and also provide you with a powerful dose of vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, and antioxidants. The product works to protect your blood vessels, cells, organs, and aid in healthy digestion.
And it doesn’t stop there. There are a number of other supplements you can take that will help fight a cold. These include zinc, Echinacea, garlic, probiotics, vitamin D, and more.
Know When It’s Time to Take a Break
Sometimes it can feel like a cold is lingering for what feels like forever. Even if you’ve taken the preventative measures, are taking supplements, it can still linger. This is when it’s important to listen to your body and take a break.
Nothing beats good old fashioned rest and down-time when you are sick. Your body needs the strength and time to heal itself, and this is best done by you resting and giving yourself that chance to fully recover. If that means taking a day or two off to lie in bed and simply do nothing, then that is the best plan for your health.
Stay Well Hydrated
The final tip is to ensure you are staying while hydrated if you have a cold. When you are stuffed up, blowing your nose constantly, and have a fever, you will be losing water at a faster pace. You’ll need to drink in order to re-hydrate, plus that hydration will help to flush your system and loosen up mucus that is clogging up your respiratory system. Opt for clear fluids like broth and water for the best results.
By using these hacks you’ll be able to recover in no time at all.