Tips to prevent and treat colds.
We are in the middle of winter, which is when most people will catch a cold, here a few tips for preventing and treating blocked and runny nose.
First of all, there is to say that in the middle of winter we don’t get much sun (Vit D) here in the UK and our immune system becomes weaker.
There are few things to boost the immune system that in turn will help your body fight off colds and flu:
eat green vegetables that are rich in vitamins, they are rich in fibers and help your body keep healthy.
go out when the sun is out and expose some of your skin to help to get Vitamin D, necessary for many body functions including your ability to fight illnesses. . This is more difficult to expose your skin to the sun when we all wrapped up or closed indoor, the alternative is to take supplement.,
keep moving, yoga is amazing to boost the immune system and Jumping on a trampoline Your lymphatic system doesn’t have a pump as blood does; to circulate, it relies on you moving.
keep warm, either by exercising or with clothing. Make sure you sweat a little every day.. Sweating is one of the detox treatment in Ayurveda. Sweat room, hot bath or infrared sauna are a great way to temporarily increase your body temperature and kill bugs.
take turmeric with a pinch of black pepper, this herb has many healing effects including detoxification, anti-inflammatory, and immune buster.
Epsom salt baths or make a strong solution of water and magnesium powder and apply under the armpit for absorption. Magnesium is involved in many chemical reactions in the body, it supports nerve function, muscles, and energy production. A modern diet rich in processed food, caffeine, alcohol, carbonated drinks, etc. stops the absorption of magnesium. Phosphates, refined sugars, stress, all strips the magnesium from your body and most people in today’s society is deficient. Nuts, seeds, whole grains, beans, leafy vegetables, milk, natural yogurt, and fortified foods are good sources. Just 1 ounce of almonds or cashews contains 20% of the daily magnesium an adult needs.
ayurvedic prevention is to use a few drops of ghee in the nose (this also prevents nose bleeds and spring allergies), and few drops of oil in the ears. Sesame oil as prevention or garlic oil for ear infection.
when you have a cold, steaming with few drops of olbas oil or eucalyptus in hot water really helps.
have a light diet, with lots of vegetables of all colors, eat seasonally
increase your vit C with fruit and vegetables or with supplement. The body does not accumulate Vit C, hence you need to make sure you are taking enough either from your diet (rose hips, acerola, thyme, parsley, yellow peppers, etc.) or with the addition of supplements. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient involved in the repair of tissue and the enzymatic production of certain neurotransmitters.
increase intake of zinc. It helps the immune system fight off invading bacteria and viruses, it is vital for correctly synthesizing DNA, promoting healthy growth during childhood, and healing wounds. Studies have shown that the intake of Zinc lozenges can reduce the length of a cold by 40%. Natural sources are lean organic meat, beans, peas, and pecan for example.
rest and sleep. Stress and lack of sleep will decrease your immune system.
practice meditation or relaxation. Laughter, singing, and dancing does boost your immune system too.