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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at FIU chapter.

All I had to do was walk for about five minutes in the rain to wake up the very next morning feeling like I’ve been sick for months. Unfortunately, there is no cure for a cold, but there are some ways to make this horrible germ-filled period go by a little faster.

When you start seeing the signs of a cold, do not dismiss them. Your body is giving you these warnings for a reason so LISTEN to them. I usually just wait until my body cannot handle it anymore find myself looking for cold medication to relive the symptoms but that is absolutely the worst way to be taking care of yourself!

1. Drink lots and lots of fluids

I’ve seen that having a powerful breakfast alongside a cup of orange juice not only gives you energy but it has the exact elements your body needs to fight. Vitamin C is crucial for your immune system to be strong enough to keep you healthy. I am also an extreme advocate of tea. Hot fluids, such as herbal teas, help loosen sinuses and help clear up congestion.

2. Stay Clean

Make sure to avoid any extra bacteria you might be surrounded with. I am sure you do not want this cold to spread or get worse so make sure to keep your hands clean. Be cautious of what you touch and remember to wash your hands whenever you get a chance.

3. Throw Away Your Toothbrush

Toothbrushes are power houses for keeping certain bacteria we do not want in our mouths. You should be throwing away your toothbrush periodically but in the case you are not, now is the time. After you get sick, toss it and get a new one because you will get sick again.

4. Eat healthy meals

You might lose your appetite but if there is one thing I can assure you, it is that you must eat. Your body is already weakening by fighting off this cold so you will need the proper nutrients to help your body. Fruits, nuts, salads + your choice of protein will do the trick.

5. Get Medicine

There are plenty of cold and flu medication at your local pharmacy. Even if it’s only been a day, the sooner you treat a possible cold the better you will feel in the long run. Emergency-C is the fastest way to jump start your clean bill of health.

6. Listen to your body.

If you feel like you need to rest, or you need an hour or two more of sleep, get it. Keep in mind that the less hours of sleep you get, the weaker your immune system will be. The healthier you keep your body during this season the less time you’ll have to spend with snot and soup.

If you’re sick already, I hope you feel better, and if not guard your bodies now more than ever with these few ways on how to avoid getting sick!

Xoxo,

N