TIPS AGAINST COLDS: PUT AN END TO COLDS, COUGHS & CO.

the temperatures drop, the immune system tends to go weak. Because now is the peak season for viruses. At least 150 different types of cold viruses circulate every year in fall and winter. The symptoms of a cold weaken the body, and accompanying symptoms such as a sore throat or swollen mucous membranes are annoying everyday companions, especially in the cold season. The good news is that there is a lot you can do about it...

One of the most important tips against colds - whether as a preventative measure or during an acute phase of illness: eat lots of fresh fruit and vegetables, especially those with a high vitamin C content (e.g. lemons and peppers). Take at least 1g of vitamin C daily. We recommend our VITAMIN C 1000 mg capsules (with delayed release). With just one capsule a day, you are optimally supplied with vitamin C. At the first signs of a cold, take 1g of vitamin C per hour over a period of 5-6 hours (max. 6g per day). In this way, the immune system is boosted for a short time to such an extent that colds can often be avoided altogether or greatly reduced. Zinc and selenium - these two trace elements have long been regarded as important supporters of the immune system. Studies show that the duration of a cold is significantly shortened by treatment with zinc tablets. (Schumacher, 2013) We recommend the MULTI GREEN LIFE nutrient preparation, which contains high doses of zinc and selenium.

Drink as much as possible, at least 2 liters per day, to keep the mucous membranes moist. Mineral water or herbal teas (with honey) are best. Several herbs can be used to treat the symptoms of a cold, for example in the form of tea: Sage, thyme or ginger can support the body well during an acute cold. (Brenner, 2016) Inhalation helps to clear the airways, keep the mucous membranes moist and thus relieve colds and coughs or a scratchy throat. Another tip against colds: Nasal mucous membranes affected by heating air can be restored with salt water nasal spray from the pharmacy. An even simpler home remedy is to put some salt in a cup, add some tap water, stir, pour into your hand and draw through your nose at the same time. You quickly get used to the salty taste. Clears the nose and moisturizes the mucous membranes.

An important tip against colds when it comes to nutrition: always eat as little fat as possible, as fat slows down immune cells and makes it harder for the body to fight off viruses and bacteria. Make sure your diet is rich in vitamins. A common household remedy for common cold symptoms is good old chicken soup. Although its effect has not been scientifically proven, the warmth of the broth alone can help to promote blood circulation and thus remove mucus from the upper respiratory tract. (Melzer, 2020)

In addition to a healthy diet and various household remedies, we have many other tips to combat colds - both measures for acute symptoms and proactive support for the immune system:

Go for a walk, jog or walk in the fresh air as often as possible, even if it's cold and grubby, because this toughens you up. Important: wear warm and waterproof clothing. Under no circumstances should you freeze.Fresh air is also good for your airways, as heated air dries them out.

Get plenty of sleep: The sleep that you missed during the summer due to the numerous visits to the beer garden should now be made up for. Sleeping is also good for the immune system.A lack of sleep weakens the body and makes it more susceptible to colds and other illnesses.

Take time out twice a week for a long sauna session.Saunas improve well-being and also support the normal functioning of the immune system.

Hot/cold alternating showers harden the body and stimulate circulation (which is scientifically proven). Always start with warm water, then after two to three minutes shower with cold water for about ten to 15 seconds. Repeat this about three times. Always end the shower with cold water! Always direct the shower head from the legs and arms to the heart. You should avoid alternating showers during an infectious disease. Prerequisite for alternating showers:A healthy circulation!

To stay in good spirits even in the "dark season", you need light!Spending at least 15 minutes outdoors during the day boosts the production of happiness hormones and supports the immune system.

It's old hat that smoking weakens the immune system. Especially in the fall and winter, non-smokers should avoid places where people smoke heavily, as the airways of passive smokers suffer particularly from cigarette smoke at this time.If you are a smoker yourself, this is one more reason to give up smoking.

Takea hot bath with essential oils in the evening.It warms the body, relaxes and clears the airways (not if you have a fever!).

Ventilate several times a day. It is essential to regularly replace stale, dry heating air with fresh air. Make sure you are not sitting in a draught.When airing a room (preferably "shock ventilation"), it is better to leave the room and close the door.

Easy to say, but still important: people who go through life optimistically and cheerfully are less susceptible to illness. Various studies have proven this.In other words: think positively, solve problems that you may have been putting off for a long time and laugh as much as possible.

Rest instead of sport: endurance athletes should take a long break, especially if they have a fever. Rest completely and only start exercising again when you feel really well again.If you start too early, you risk permanent damage to your cardiovascular system!

Incidentally, a flu-like infection and the flu are not the same thing.You can be vaccinated against the latter - your family doctor is the right person to contact here.

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