10 Foods to Cure a Cold

Common cold is an infectious disease of the upper respiratory tract caused after a viral infection. The principal virus groups causing common cold are corona virus and rhinovirus. Children of 5-12 years are generally affected by common cold, but it can affect any age group. Common cold is characterized by running nose or nasal blockage, sore throat, generalized body ache, muscle cramps and loss of appetite. It’s a self-limiting disease and usually wanes off after 7-10 days. There are some foods that can help to prevent cold. Here is the list of 10 foods to cure a cold attack.

• Lemon – lemon is full of Vitamin C (ascorbic acid). This weak acid helps the immune system of our body to prevent cell wall synthesis of the common cold virus. If you suffer from cold, a glassful of fresh lime juice daily will hasten the cure.

• Amla (Indian gooseberry) – it is also rich in Vitamin C. Amla can be taken as dried or in powdered form. 3-4 pieces of dried amla should be soaked in a cup of water and left for overnight. In the morning, the water along with the pieces of amla should be taken in empty stomach.

• Oranges – oranges are also full of Vitamin C. Besides, oranges are good source of Vitamin A, which is a potent antioxidant. Antioxidants help our body in any infectious disease by improving our immunity.

• Garlic – garlic is a potent immunity stimulator. A clove of garlic everyday will definitely increase the functioning of immune system. Its pungent smell and the typical taste help to clear out throat. The essential oils present in garlic can clear the blocked nose as well.

• Fresh green vegetables – broccoli, spinach and sprouts are good source of Vitamin A and Vitamin C. these also full of Selenium and Zinc. All these are powerful antioxidants and immune system modulators. They help to find the common cold virus early in the infection time and help in the formation of specific Killer T cells.

• Hot tea – a cup of hot tea when you are having running nose will help you in instant relief. Although it is a symptomatic relief and will not stay for long, but the immediate respite also helps when you are not in a position to breathe freely.

• Hot and spicy soup – this is again a temporary relief from cold. Hot chicken or hot garlic soup will dilate the tiny blood vessels of the nose. Even hot vegetable soup will also do the same. This in turn will slow down the mucous secretion from the glands.

• Honey – one tsp of honey early in the morning with some lukewarm water will also help in reducing symptoms.

• Apple cider vinegar – this weak acid when taken with honey or lukewarm water, can reduce the symptoms of running nose and sore throat.

• Green tea – this contain enough polyphenols which is a potent antioxidant. Regular intake of green tea is a better way to cure cold.

All these foods are thought to cure common cold in a natural way.