For the past four days I've been in bed, laid out by a summer cold. By that, I mean constant sneezing, aches and pains, and tons of mucus. (Yeah, right? GROSS!)
They say summer colds can last as long as ten days (YIKES!) before you're clear of the virus. To get on the mend more quickly, here's what I'll need to do—and you too if you are unfortunate enough to catch one:
Get plenty of rest.
Your body needs time to heal!
Drink plenty of water.
Fever helps fight infection. However, it causes sweating, which drains your body of water. Dehydration slows your body's chemical reactions, so replenish with lots of fluids.
Eat healthy.
If you feel like eating at all (I didn't!) don't be tempted by comfort foods. Poor nutrition weakens your immune response, so be sure to fuel your recovery with a balanced diet.
Avoid alcohol and smoking.
The goal is to keep your immune system strong and responsive, so no cocktails or sneaking smokes.
Take supplements.
Vitamin C and zinc can shorten the time in which you're down and out. At the same time, they boost your immunity. (However, consult your doctor before starting any supplements or medications.)
Use a humidifier.
While they don’t cure colds, humidifiers ease symptoms like congestion, sore throat, and coughing by adding moisture to the air.
Best yet, avoid one altogether. For that, prevention is key.
If you're warned that someone is ill, it's okay to avoid close contact. If can't, certainly wear a mask. And YES, wash your hands!
If you're sick, STAY HOME. That way, you avoid the nickname “Typhoid (Your Name Here)."'
