No Diet Liquid Protein Cold and Flu Myths Busted.
When winter comes we become more conscious of colds and the onset of the flu season - along with increased advertising of various brand name cough and cold medications in capsule or liquid form. It also brings up all those old sayings and wives tales of how to cure or reduce the effects of colds and flu.
And, let's face it - when your head feels like its full of cotton wool, your nose drips like a faucet and your sinuses feel like they have nails driven into them - we all, at times, succumb to trying anything just to get some alleviation.
So what works and what doesn't - what cold and flu myths can we believe and what are a complete waste of time?
"An Apple A Day Keeps The Doctor Away"
Well, this isn't as hoary as it may seem. Red apple skin has more anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects than berries and these may boost the immune system and help protect against flu.
The key here is 'immune system' - if we are keeping our bodies at optimal health levels then it is better able to combat the invasion of those nasty respiratory bugs.
The lesson: keep up those two fruits a day as part of good nutrition - and especially encourage the kids to do likewise.
"Surgical Masks"
Yes, they do have some benefit - if worn properly as they help prevent inhalation of expelled droplets when you are around people who carry the infection.
"Only Coughs and Sneezes Spread Disease"
Wrong! The most common way that flu and colds are spread is when hands are in contact with contaminated surfaces and you transfer the bug to your face etc.
Washing hands thoroughly and regularly is advised, especially if a family member has a bug already. It is the rubbing action of washing that removes bugs, more than any anti-bacterial soap. Also, keep the surfaces (kitchen benches etc) clean and disinfected.
Vitamins Can Help reduce the effects of a cold
Most medicos say there is no substantive evidence that taking vitamins will prevent or reduce the effects of a cold. My experience says otherwise - this is something you can test yourself.
However, just taking them when you get a cold isn't much help - you need to be on a good regular intake for most benefit. See fruits above - that may be the answer
Chicken Soup
Well, this is a lot tastier than many over the counter syrups and probably more effective. Colds attack the upper respiratory tract and this becomes inflamed. Chicken soup possesses anti-inflammatory properties. It may also alleviate throat soreness and possibly prevent the movement of white blood cells that encourage the flow of mucous.
It could be a combination of the heat, the vegies and proteins and the anti-inflammatory properties.
Getting Caught in the Rain will Cause a Cold
No it doesn't - nor does being stuck in wet clothes. Colds and flu are viral and if the virus is in your system then that's how you get it. Just being cold and wet does not of itself 'breed' the virus.
The best preventative? A well balanced and nutritious diet - incorporating 5 veg and two fruits, plus regular exercise. Plus, if applicable, no tobacco. BTW, flu vaccines do not give you the flu as they do not contain any live virus.
No Diet Liquid Protein.