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During a season of holidays, parties and celebrations, it’s easy to fall behind on sleep, nutrition, and overall health.
If you find yourself coming down with a cold this season, here are 5 at-home remedies to soothe your symptoms and get back on track.
1. Zinc
Studies show that zinc supplements may reduce the duration and severity of a cold if it’s taken early on. As soon as you start to feel symptoms, reach for a zinc supplement or load up on zinc-packed foods like meat, shellfish and legumes.
2. Warm Ginger Water
The gingerol in ginger root has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. To soothe dry coughs and sore throats, simply add a few slices of fresh ginger to a pot of boiling water and sip on at least 3 cups throughout the day.
3. Broth
Whether it’s made from chicken, vegetable or bone, broths are a nutrient-dense option to help relieve cold symptoms. Broths retain water-soluble vitamins and minerals that are otherwise tossed aside when steaming or boiling food. If you’re not making your own, just avoid buying anything with MSG or “natural flavors” which are typically chemical flavors created in labs.
4. Turmeric
This bright yellow spice has been used to treat inflammation for centuries. Studies show that the curcumin in turmeric has antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties that can help prevent and fight infections. To enjoy turmeric, mix a teaspoon into warm nut or oat milk. Add cinnamon, honey or ginger for added benefits and taste!
5. Red, blue and purple fruits
Anthocyanins are water-soluble vacuolar pigments that make foods like pomegranates and berries red, blue or purple. These fruits are anti-inflammatory, stimulate your immune system and can prevent viruses and bacteria from making you sick.
