I know when a cold is coming on. The left side of my throat starts to ache a smidge and sinus pressure sets in. I may also get a tingling feeling on my lips (a sure sign of an impending cold sore). It’s the worst BUT once I observe one of these hints, I get right to work to combat the cold as much as I can!
I am in no way a doctor (nor do I portray one on TV – sorry, that was corny but I just had to say that…) but here are some tried and true tips to stop a cold before it truly sets in!
SALTWATER GARGLE
Gargling with a combination of salt and warm water will help to kill some bacteria, thin out mucus and help soothe your sore throat. All you need to do is mix one quarter to one half of a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and gargle for a few minutes. I learned that the salt actually draws water from the tissues within your throat, easing inflammation!
HYDRATION IS KEY!
I am all about proper hydration when we are healthy, and it is even more so important when you’re feeling a bit under the weather. Your body’s mucus is a transporter of bacteria and germs – I know, EWWWW! Tea, juice (OJ is my fave), and water help to decrease the amount of mucus in your body (it actually helps to thin it out).
YOU’RE NEVER TOO SWEET FOR SOME HONEY
Did you know that honey, especially local honey, is an antimicrobial and contains antioxidants that help with healing? I mention using local honey especially if you have allergies. Local honey comes from local honeybees and contains local pollen, which can strengthen your immune system.
REST
Seriously…if you can rest, you should. I know I am guilty of not listening to that same advice but rest is so important when you start to feel under the weather. Your body is working super hard to fight whatever is invading your system, so the rest allows you to recharge!
CHICKEN SOUP
I can attest that chicken soup is good for more than just your soul. Aside from it being one of my favorite comfort foods, there is something about chicken soup that is medicinal. I think that the warm liquid helps with my congestion and there is a study by Mount Sinai researchers here in Miami that proves it! This study shows that chicken soup helps more than hot water, to move the yucky mucus along.
These are just 5 tips that can hopefully scare away or greatly reduce the downfall of an impending cold. What do you do when you feel a cold coming on?
(On an aside, if you feel that tingling in your lip I highly recommend you hightail over to the nearest pharmacy or supermarket and pick yourself up a tube of Abreva…it helps!)
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