Common cold: 5 ways to prevent cold before it starts
How to prevent cold in winters
There is a surge in common cold cases, which isn't surprising this time of the year. A runny nose, headache, body pain and sore throat can make it quite uncomfortable to perform our daily tasks, and all we want to do is curl in the bed and sip some hot beverage. On top of that, the chilly wind makes the symptoms even worse, throwing us off the track for several days.
Honestly, nobody likes being sick and staying in bed all day long. So, rather than popping pills and taking steam later to relieve the congested nose, it is better to stop a cold before it even begins. Here are some tips to prevent colds this winter and stay fit and active.
Wash hands regularly
The
pandemic taught an important lesson of washing our hands nicely before
eating or touching our face to reduce the risk of COVID infection. We
just have to carry on with it even in the winter season. Cold-causing
viruses are spread from coughs and sneezes of an infected person, which
can survive on hands and surfaces for 24 hours. So, wash your hands
nicely with soap and water before eating or touching your face to avoid
falling sick.
Stay hydrated
In
winters generally, your daily water intake level decreases. Due to cold
weather, we do not feel thirsty, so we do not drink much water. That is
what you have to avoid this season. Water helps to flush out toxins
from the body and prevent us from falling sick. So, even if you want to
stay healthy, drink at least 2 litres of water in a day. You can even
have soup and bone broth to up your fluid intake level.
Eat healthily
Eat
a healthy and well-balanced diet during the season. It will help you
get an ample amount of nutrients and keep you fit. Pay special attention
to your zinc and vitamin D intake levels. These two nutrients help to
boost immunity and reduce the risk of falling sick. Eat more leafy
greens, whole grains, nuts and fruits.
Get enough sleep
Getting
enough sleep is essential for us to fight and prevent a cold.
Sleeplessness or poor quality of sleep makes it harder for the body to
fight viruses and infection. When we get quality sleep at night, our
body produces and releases cytokines, types of proteins that target
infection and inflammation. So, make sure you sleep for 7 to 8 hours
daily to keep your immune system active.
Exercise
Exercising is not only essential for shedding kilos or building muscles. It even helps to boost immunity and prevent a cold. Studies suggest that exercising helps our immune cells travel more quickly around your body as it improves your circulation. This way, it helps the body to fight infection in a better way. Stay active by following a regular exercise routine like walking, yoga, meditation, running and strength training.