This is how you don't get sick in a house where everyone is sick
Now that we are in the middle of winter, there is surely someone you know who is sick. That sniffling and coughing follows you everywhere you go, even into your own home. Because yes: your partner, family, children, or housemates must have caught a little flu. Do you have an important appointment and really want to avoid getting sick at all costs? Then I have gathered some tips for you. This way, you won't get sick in a house where everyone is sick, trust me.
1. Use a vocal steamer
Yes, you know: that thing you always see singers using in documentaries to keep their voice nice. Only you use it to avoid getting sick. That might sound a bit strange, but it really helps. Fill it with a physiological saline solution (better known as saline solution) and enjoy steaming. Do this before you catch a cold to prevent it, or at the moment you start to feel the first symptoms.
A steamer gives you the ability to bring warm, moist air directly to your irritated throat and nose. This helps loosen the mucus in your airways, soothes your dry throat, and even relaxes the muscles in your neck. This device alone alleviates your symptoms, but especially that saline solution will help you. It reduces and removes mucus, thereby decreasing viruses, allergens, and inflammation. So say goodbye to that cough and runny nose. With this, you are directly fighting the infection.
2. Take seamoss gel
Sea moss is seen as a natural remedy for various ailments. It doesn't taste great, but many people say it helps improve their skin and also gives their immune system a boost. Although it is not fully proven, it has research shown that similar seaweeds can reduce depressive symptoms and give your immune system a lift. See sea moss gel as one of those (let's be honest: disgusting) superfood ginger shots: you have to get through it, but it works wonders for your body.
3. Start taking vitamin D and B12
When you are about to get sick, it never hurts to increase your vitamin intake. These substances are key to keeping you as healthy as possible. Vitamin D, for example, supports your immune system and can slightly reduce your risk of respiratory infections. B12 is also one of those aids that activates the immune cells in your immune system. This is essential for your energy balance, allowing your body to better fight viruses — especially if you are deficient and that flu is lurking.
4. Try Shatavari
This plant has been used for over two thousand years in areas like India and Africa. Ancient texts from the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita show that it was used for rejuvenating and uplifting drinks for women. By now, the whole world knows what this superplant can do. It is a natural antioxidant that can help repair your cells, reduce stress, inhibit inflammation, alleviate diarrhea, and also give your immune system a boost. In India, they still widely give shatavari juice as a cough remedy. And we know this not only from holistic doctors but also from scientific studies. So yes: taking these tablets can seriously help you avoid getting sick and recover faster.
5. Go for acupuncture
Okay, honestly? This can't prevent complaints, but acupuncture can reduce your symptoms when they start to arise. It might sound a bit... not like exact science, but it can't hurt to try it. The worst that can happen is that you still get sick, but then a bit more relaxed from this experience. During a treatment, they massage the sides of your nose against the cartilage, between your eyebrows, at your hairline, and the outer corners of your eyebrows. They do this to reduce the feeling of a full head.
Additionally, they can massage your hand to lower your fever. The point on the back of your hand, on the soft spot between your thumb and index finger, is said to help with this. By massaging and possibly giving some pricks, this stimulates your body to heal.
6. Avoid caffeine
Drinking a cold iced latte is very nice, I know that. If anyone is guilty of ‘just quickly grabbing a coffee’, it's me. But if you have a cold, you better skip it. Coffee can worsen dehydration because it makes you urinate more. Additionally, it can irritate your throat, cause the mucous membranes in your nose to swell, and (uh... it's not very classy) worsen your congestion. So believe me: skip it for now and save some money too.
7. Eat healthy
This is probably one of the most logical tips, but eating healthy is really a big factor in whether you get sick or not. If you only stuff yourself with cookies, cola, and a Big Mac meal, you won't get the nutrients you need to keep your immune system healthy. Right now, you need all the vitamins and minerals you can get. So you better eat plenty of vegetables, fruits, and good fats. They don't have to be five-star meals; it can also be simple by just eating more consciously. Invest in good ingredients and you'll naturally avoid that cold.
So you know it: is everyone in your house sniffling? Then get a vocal steamer and those vitamins as soon as possible. Who knows, you might just beat the germs and stay feeling great.
Image: Instagram | Zaargoedemans
