Some interesting facts about Cold and Flu:

Aaachoooo! Sniff sniff…. Sound familiar? Every year millions of people suffer from cold or flu symptoms that affect their ability to function optimally. Even though there is no known cure for colds and flu, there are ways available to treat the symptoms.

* Typical cold symptoms are:

• Headache
• Nasal stuffiness / congestion
• Sore throat
• Runny nose
• Coughing
• Sneezing
  

Colds and flu are caused by viruses which you can get through:

• Touching a contaminated area (door handles, toilets, etc.)
  
• Coming into contact with someone who has the virus.

These viruses are spread via mucus droplets in the air and on surfaces, and because none of us can survive without human contact it is close to impossible to avoid getting exposed. There are, however, ways to boost our body’s defense against and relieve the symptoms of the common cold and flu.

The common cold normally lasts for about 7 – 10 days and you will start showing symptoms about 3 days after you were infected.

The flu typically lasts about 5 – 7 days and normally you will start showing symptoms about 2 days after you were infected.

Typical flu symptoms are:

• Chills
• Fever
• Muscle and joint pain
• Tiredness
• Respiratory problems

I have cold and flu symptoms. What now?

The best remedy is to get some rest. Your body is hard at work trying to get rid of the virus and would prefer doing so in peace and quiet, so going for a hike or a session at the gym is definitely not a good idea.

TIP:
Exercising while you are sick could cause long-term damage to your heart muscle.

You will start feeling better once you have symptom relief.

How can I prevent getting the virus?

Wash your hands at least 6 times a day.
This might sound excessive to some of you, but think about it: You should wash your hands before a meal (generally 3 times a day), after you go to the toilet (generally 3 times a day) and after you have sneezed. Washing your hands frequently rids them of germs that you might have come into contact with.

Boost your immune system.
Our immune system can be seen as our internal doctor. It regulates our health based on the condition that it is in. By eating healthily, exercising, not smoking and limiting your alcohol consumption, you are allowing your immune system to function at its best. Because none of us can ask our immune system, “Hey, how’re you doing?” we will only realize that it is in bad shape when we are sick.

Be extra sure that your immune system has everything it needs in order to keep you healthy by:
• Getting enough sleep (8 hours a day is recommended)
• Eating a healthy balanced diet (including all food groups)
• Exercising regularly
• Supplementing with vitamins and minerals

Here are some essential immune boosting vitamins, minerals and herbs (although many assist in the maintenance of a healthy immune system, these are known primarily for boosting the immune system):

Vitamins : Vitamin C | Minerals : Zinc and Selenium | Herbs : Echinacea and Garlic

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