5 Foods To Help You Fight Cold

As the name suggests, the common cold is perhaps one of the most prevalent ailments. Virtually everyone has come down with the common cold at some point in their lives, making it one grand shared experience, an experience most of us can do without.

A common cold is generally perceived as a minor inconvenience until you fall victim to it. While some people brave it better than others, “being under the weather” can really drain the life out of you. Something as effortless as breathing can seem like a laborious task as long as the infection lasts.Some 200 viruses can cause common colds, with the rhinoviruses being the most widespread culprit. This highly contagious viral infection primarily affects the upper part of the respiratory system including the nose and the throat. It spreads mostly through coughing and sneezing.

* Green Tea

Green tea is loaded with disease-fighting antioxidants as well as antiviral and antibacterial properties that help fight colds.In particular, a group of antioxidants known as catechins has been shown to inhibit the activity of the common cold virus as well as certain influenza viruses. The antioxidants in green tea can help protect your body against free radicals and similar compounds in the body, helping the immune system function normally. Healthy immune systems are better at handling infections overall.Enjoy 2 or 3 cups of green tea daily to prevent or fight the common cold. You can add lemon and honey to enhance the taste, but avoid adding milk.

* Garlic

Garlic is well known for it’s strong antiviral and antibacterial properties and has been used for ages to fight the common cold and many of its symptoms.Plus, it contains allicin, a sulfuric compound that produces potent antioxidants and offers many medicinal benefits.Also, garlic is one of the best immune-boosting foods that help the body ward off and fight infections. Eat one to two raw garlic cloves or add a few drops of garlic oil in your food and drinks regularly to prevent and fight common colds.

* Oranges

Oranges contain a high amount of vitamin C and can help deal with different types of viral infections, including the common cold.Scientific research has yielded conflicting results regarding the efficacy of vitamin C in improving cold symptoms. Some studies failed to demonstrate any noteworthy benefit of taking vitamin C with respect to the common cold. However, there are studies that indicate that vitamin C intake can reduce the duration of the infection, specifically in those who exercise regularly.

* Blueberries

Blueberries are known for a variety of benefits. In 2013, researchers at Oregon State University conducted an analysis of 446 compounds for their ability to boost the innate immune system in humans. Researchers discovered a compound called pterostilbene from blueberries that stood out in terms of modulating the immune system. Blueberries also contain many antioxidants, so they can be helpful in the prevention of the common cold as well.

* Mushrooms

In traditional Chinese medicine, mushrooms are often used to fight the common cold and other types of viral infections. Mushrooms increase the production of cytokines, which help keep infections at bay. Plus, mushrooms contain polysaccharides that support the immune system. Mushrooms are also known for their strong antiviral and antibacterial properties, and they contain many essential nutrients. It’s best to switch up the variety of mushrooms you consume to reap all the benefits that different ones have to offer.