The Wellness of YOU! - # 151 - Got a Cold?
posted in Nutrition and Weight Loss |
This is the season for people to have a greater chance of catching a cold than the rest of the year. Sure, many people will get a cold in the warmer months, but it seems that it happens a lot more easily during the winter months.
If you’re sneezing — if you’re experiencing a stuffy or runny nose — if you have a sore throat or a mild cough, chances are you’ve picked up one of the more than 200-plus viruses that cause the common cold. Even though you may be a person who reads my blog faithfully — one who follows a good healthy lifestyle — or who eats nutrient-rich foods and gets plenty of exercise — everyone gets a cold from time to time. And, as you already know, there is no cure.
One of the best ways to avoid catching a cold is to be diligent with regular hand washing. This is such an important step and it should become a habit at all times of the year. If you are in contact with someone who has a cold — or if you have touched objects in public places like shopping cart handles or handrails — wash your hands. If you can’t get to soap and water make a habit of carrying those disinfectant moist towelletes. Most colds will clear up within 7 to ten days. (A friend of mine used to say, “Your cold will be gone in either a week or seven days — one or the other!”)
Here are some tips to make dealing with a cold a little more bearable …
* Drink plenty of fluids. Water is the obvious choice, but other sugar-free beverages — and even a clear consommé or broth — will keep you hydrated, too. In addition, hot herbal tea may soothe a sore throat.
* Choose a medication in pill or sugar-free liquid form. Pills do not contain a significant amount of added sugars, and sugar-free cough drops or cough syrup are available at most pharmacies. These products are commonly made for diabetics; if you can’t find them, ask your pharmacist where they are stocked. (Keep in mind that they may contain sugar alcohols, which should be consumed in moderation.) Also remember that antibiotics are not effective against the common cold — or other viruses.
* Get plenty of rest. Allowing your body proper time to rest — seven to nine hours per night for most adults — will help ensure a speedy recovery. And, unless your doctor says otherwise (or if you have a fever), if you’re feeling up to engaging in your usual exercise routine, there is no medical reason to skip it.
* Another thing that I always recommend is to take a good nutritional supplement like the one I take, Body Balance. See the blue box below to find out how you can get a free two-week supply to try for yourself.
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Got questions?
Contact me at: http://www.ronrink.com
My email and phone number are at that site. Feel free to contact me. I’m here to help you with your health, nutrition and fitness goals.
Have a healthy and nutritious day!
Shanti … (A sanscrit word meaning, “Let there be Peace. Peace, beautiful Peace. Peace within, Peace without. Peace in this world. Peace for all beings.”)
Ron
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