Cold is a common illness that almost everyone gets once in a while. In the western part of the world, the winter months are often referred to as the “cold and flu” season.
Facts about common colds
Common colds are the considered as the most frequently occurring illness in the world. It is estimated that people in the United States suffer 1 billion colds per year, with approximately 22 million days of school absences recorded annually.
Common cold is caused by different viruses. The virus is transmitted by infected airborne droplets or by direct contact with the secretion.
Symptoms of the common colds include cough, congestion, scratchy throat, sneezing, and runny nose.
Common colds last for about a week or maybe longer, and are usually occurring in children, elderly, and people who are in poor health.
Relief for common colds
Most often, people rely on over-the-counter medications that may provide temporary relief of the common colds. Decongestants, antihistamines, or a combination of both are just a few of the medications people seek as soon as they feel cold is coming on. However, these products may cause adverse reaction to the body that is why many various herbs and other natural products received a lot of publicity as a treatment of colds. Here are the most common superfoods to help relieve common colds without drugs.
Garlic
Garlic contains compounds called allion and allicin, which gives an antiviral effects to the body. According to Bryan Rade, a naturopathic doctor in Halifax, “If you happen to come in contact with a flu virus, garlic can help destroy it before it becomes a full-blown flu in the body.” Simply take a few cloves with your own teeth. If you want to have a more palatable method then crush up two cloves and let it rest for about 15 minutes then add honey.
Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits are packed full of vitamin C. Although vitamin C is not very well effective in treating colds, studies have shown that it reduces the cold’s duration about a day. Whether you are using orange, grapefruit, lemons or limes, these will surely keep you away from suffering common colds for a long period of time.
Tea
Whether it is black, white, or green, sipping on tea can help relieve chest congestion. Also, tea contains a powerful antioxidant known as catechins that is not only helpful in fighting flu but also boosts the overall immunity, metabolism, and protects against cancer and heart diseases.
Astragalus Root
Astragalus root has long been used in Chinese medicine to strengthen the immune system and prevents colds and flu. Many claims that astragalus root has antiviral properties that stimulates the immune system.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms contains different antioxidants that are known to boost the immune system, along with potassium, B vitamins, and fiber. There are various varieties of mushrooms including white button, Portobello, shiitake, and maitake.
Oats
Oats is a favorite breakfast food for many people. It is known for its cholesterol-lowering properties while containing fiber and other essential nutrients. In many studies, oats have proven to prevent upper respiratory tract infection due to its beta-glucan content.
Conclusion
The above mentioned superfoods are naturally safe for everyone but for pregnant women, nursing moms, children, people who are on blood thinners or other medication must consult a health care provider first before taking any of these foods.
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