Unfailing Ways To Stop a Cold in the Harsh Winter Season

While you can develop a cold all year round, the harsh winter season may cause the illness to spread more quickly because of the humidity and the temperature. But how can you stop a cold if you feel you're coming down with it at the height of family gatherings and parties during the holiday break?

Here are some reasonable medical advice from the doctors:

1. Boost your body's immunity with vitamin D.

According to the experts, people who lack vitamin D are more susceptible to respiratory infections and could quickly develop a scratchy throat, cough, and stuffy nose. Doctors recommend a supplemental dose of 10 mcg or 400 IU daily of vitamin D to prevent respiratory infections. However, some doctors may recommend more than 600 IU a day for optimal health, especially if there is no vitamin D in the daily diet. Some food rich in vitamin D includes egg yolks, milk, cheese, salmon, and mushrooms.

2. Take zinc supplements.

Zinc helps the body stave off viruses or reduces the severity of the infection's symptoms so that the sick won't experience a terrible cold. According to the experts, 75 milligrams of zinc is what the body needs to fight off the cold virus, but at least eight 11 milligrams for daily nutrition is enough.

Zinc is in lentils, tofu, and chicken. However, if you feel a cold coming on, take zinc lozenges or syrup within 24 hours of the symptoms to stop the virus on its tracks. Per the Mayo Clinic, this will help shorten the illness.

3. Make a habit of adding probiotics to your diet.

Probiotics are found in sour-tasting food like yogurt, sauerkraut, or kimchi. They work to boost the immune system by balancing the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Probiotics create a barrier in the intestines that prevents the viruses from getting through and spreading on the body. It bears noting that over 70 percent of the body's immune system components are found in the gut.

A study in the Science and Medicine in Sport Journal proved that active athletes who take probiotic supplements experienced fewer episodes of colds and other infections than those who took placebo pills. Another study in the journal Nutrients showed that older adults placed on a probiotic-rich yogurt diet for 12 weeks had stronger immunities against the cold virus.

4. Investing in a diffuser and essential oils might help.

Pure and undiluted essential oils are seen as alternatives to medications, but they can also be another layer of protection from the common cold. Some oils are very effective against viral infections, such as oregano, lemon, tea tree, eucalyptus, and rosemary. These plant-based oils have both antiviral and antimicrobial elements that have been used as natural treatments for centuries.

A few drops of essential oil in a diffuser will do the trick, and it could also help with steam inhalation. However, some essential oils are too potent for kids or pets, so be sure not to diffuse when they are in the room. Ideally, you'll only need to diffuse for 20 minutes. Keeping the machine on for long hours is not recommended to keep the room scented.