Thinking we’ve escaped the cold and flu season with the departure of below zero temperatures and snowstorms, many people are shocked to experience scratchy throats, runny noses, and stuffy heads as the snow melts and the days become warmer. In fact, the beginning of spring is a time when many of us are susceptible to acute viral infections, also known as the common cold.

At the fist sign of a cold, here are some tips to ease the symptoms and encourage a speedy recovery:

• Rest. Your immune system functions best in the parasympathetic state, when you are not active. Every hour of sleep before midnight is worth two hours.

• Keep hydrated. Dry mucus membranes are the perfect environment for viruses to thrive. Warm drinks help to soothe a sore throat and increase body temperature to help fight infection:
  • Hot lemon water - high in vitamin C; antiseptic; replenishes electrolytes
  • Rosehip tea - high in vitamin C; eases headaches
  • Rooisbos tea - rich in antioxidants; relieves stomach complaints; contains zinc
  • Echinacae tea - immune modulating; anti-flu; shortens the duration of colds
  • Ginger tea - helps to ward off colds; speeds recovery time

• Eat more fruits and vegetables, especially soups and stews. Use miso paste or chicken stalk as the base, and add lots of garlic, onions, fresh gingerroot, shitake mushrooms, carrots, celery, and parsley (all of which benefit your immune system.)

• Avoid orange juice. Although vitamin C is great for your immune system, juice will promote mucus production and the sugar will depress your immune system. It is better to supplement with vitamin C powder or drink the above-mentioned teas.

• Eliminate dairy. It is a common food allergen, which will increase mucus production and depress the immune system.

• Supplement with zinc. It provides relief from sore throats; increases immune function; kills viruses; decreases the duration of the illness. Lozenges are better than tablets since saliva activates zinc. Take with food to prevent nausea.

• Contrast showers. End each shower with 30 seconds as hot as tolerable, followed by 10 seconds as cold as tolerable. Do this three times on your chest and three times on your back. Always make sure to end the shower with cold. This helps to push the symptoms out of your chest and allows the sinuses to drain.

As a final note, always remember to follow the directions on the label when taking supplements.

Good luck for a speedy recovery!