Here it comes again … the cold weather, bringing with it coughs, colds and sneezes. How often do we remark on how scientists can do so many amazing things, but they still can’t cure the common cold? Well, you may not be able to cure a cold, but there are several steps that you can take to try to prevent them, or shorten the duration. I haven’t tested all of them personally, but it’s worth a try …
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I once met someone who was convinced that eating large quantities of garlic regularly stopped them catching colds. If there was any truth to this, it was probably down to the repellent effect – as we all know, garlic certainly keeps other people away! I did have to request him not to breathe in my direction …
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This is the method I swear by, and one I stumbled across by accident. If I use chillis in cooking every day, I catch very few colds. If I don’t, then I spend a lot of time sneezing. So I’ve got my supply ready in the cupboard – hopefully it will work as well this year.
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The jury is still out on this one. Some doctors believe that a daily dose of high concentration Vitamin C acts to prevent colds. Others think that there is no truth to this, and that high doses have no effect at all. You be the judge!
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Recently I was told that if you finish a shower with a spray of cold water, then it will help prevent colds. Presumably the thinking is that it will strengthen your immune system by acclimatising you to feeling cold. Whatever the reason, I am not brave enough to try this one – I’ll stick to chillis instead!
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Echinacea is a herbal remedy that has long been reputed to help with preventing colds and flu. According to studies, in otherwise healthy people it is best used to reduce the length of a cold, rather than taking it continually. If the immune system is already reduced, then it can be taken continually.
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I don’t like to be paranoid about catching germs, but they can survive for several hours on surfaces. So washing your hands is a good way of reducing your chances of catching a cold. Also try not to touch your eyes or nose, as this can transmit colds.
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Stress is known to compromise your immune system, so if you are feeling worried or are working too hard, you become more vulnerable to catching germs. Try to find time for relaxation, and deal with whatever is bothering you.
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Yes, that means no smoking, sensible drinking, healthy diet etc. Taking moderate exercise and getting enough sleep also helps boost your immune system (the body repairs itself while we sleep).
Which methods do you swear by for preventing colds? Do you have any folk remedies passed on from Granny? Or has nothing worked, and you spend the entire winter coughing and sneezing?
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