Treat the common cold by strengthening your immune system with zinc

Do work out

Regular exercise is a great secret to staying healthy and it actually helps to boost your immune system. Incorporate 15-30 minutes of exercise into your day to get maximal benefits. No time for the gym? Take a walk or dance to some music. The more the cardio – the better you will feel and stronger your immune system will be.

Do increase your zinc gluconate intake

Zinc Gluconate is clinically proven to shorten the duration of a cold by nearly half. If you start feeling symptoms of cold, take a cold remedy product that contains Zinc Gluconate, such as Cold-EEZE Cold Remedy, which release zinc into the throat and upper respiratory system to prevent the cold virus from spreading. Other foods rich in zinc include oysters, dark chocolate, lamb, and peanuts.

Do get enough vitamins

Regular intake of Vitamin C (500 mg daily), Calcium (1000mg -1500 mg depending on your age) Vitamin A (600-900 mcg depending on your age and sex) and Vitamin D (400-800 IU) can help keep your immune system strong. These vitamins not only strengthen your immune system, but they are easy to get a hold of. A glass of milk, orange juice, carrots, or a quick trip the pharmacy for some vitamins can help you prevent the winter cold.

Do drink water

Drinking water regularly is an easy inexpensive way of keeping your body hydrated and your skin intact. Your skin and linings of your respiratory tract are your body’s first and largest defense against bacteria and viruses.

Do have fun

Of course, stressing out is one of the best ways to weaken your immune system. Stress increases your body’s cortisol level, a hormone to help you handle stress. Cortisol inhibits the cells in your body that help fight off bacteria and viruses. How can you decrease your stress levels? Laugh, play and have lots of fun with friends and loved ones! Laughter reduces stress and the less stress you have helps your immune system function effectively.

Do not forget to wash your hands

Washing your hands on a regularly basis is the easiest way to prevent yourself from getting sick. Use soap and water to scrub your hands for at least 15-20 seconds. If water’s not available, use an alcohol based substitute to kill viruses and bacteria until you can get to a sink. Try to keep your hands away from your eyes, nose, and mouth. These are entry points for bacteria and viruses into your body.

Do not smoke

This goes without saying – quitting tobacco may be one of the most difficult things you do, but is one of the best gifts you can give to yourself. Here are 2 tips to help you on your way. Choose a quit date and tell your friends and loved ones that you are quitting so they can support you. Increase your ingestion of fruit, vegetables and juice; these foods tend to make cigarettes taste less appealing. Alcohol, coffee and sweets can enhance the way a cigarette tastes. Talk to your doctor about tools you can use to quit.

Do not deprive yourself of sleep

Sleep plays a vital role in good health and avoiding the cold! Getting 8 hours of sleep on regular basis is important and can help protect your physical and mental health. Staying up late and waking up early doesn’t allow for your body to get the rest it needs to fight off germs.

Do not sneeze into your hands

Generations of parents and teachers have told children to cover their mouths and noses when they sneeze or cough. The rule still applies, but instead you should aim for your elbows or sleeves. Your hands touch everything all day and can pass germs onto others and yourself.

Do not drink alcohol

When you have the cold or flu, alcohol can dehydrate you. Instead of drinking alcohol, you should take a break and increase your intake of hot teas, water, and juices when you’re sick.