Can You Conquer the Common Cold?

The common cold has no cure at this time. It is caused by a virus and antibiotics don't work. Antibiotics are used for bacterial infections and do absolutely nothing for the common cold. So what can you do? Do you just suffer with the symptoms? Can you stop the cold before it starts? 

Here are some steps you can take to prevent the common cold from attacking you.

1. Get proper amount of rest. Getting the proper amount of sleep will allow your immune system to remain strong and able to fight off viruses and infections.

2. Be sure to stay warm. Staying warm will allow your immune system the ability to focus on fighting off infections instead of trying to stay warm.

3. Eat a proper diet. Eating a properly balanced diet will fuel your body to maintain its immune system. A proper diet consists of eating a consist amount of vegetables, fruits and protein.

4. Don't smoke. Smoking affects the lungs and reduces the effectiveness of the cilia. Smoking also decreases the immune system function.

5. Drink plenty of fluids. Drinking six to eight glasses of water, juice, or other clear liquids will maintain proper hydration and keeps the immune system functioning properly.

6. Take Vitamin C. Vitamin C has been shown to shorten the time a cold lingers. It can reduce the length of infection from one week to 3 days. Taking 500mg of Vitamin C 3-4 times a day can reduce cold symptoms by 50%. The best way to get the proper amount of vitamin C is to eat or drink it - oranges, grapefruits, and craberries are excellent sources of Vitamin C. However, someitmes that is not possible so a daily supplement can be taken daily.

7. Use over the counter medication. If you do decide to take over the counter cold remedies, be sure to follow the instructions carefully and be sure to buy the medication that addresses the symptoms that you are suffering from.  

There may be no cure for the common cold but there are measures you can do to help prevent the common cold from making you miserbale. If you do get a cold, getting plenty of rest, fluids and taking vitamin C can help reduce symptoms. You will be back on your feet in no time.