Getting sick blows, and, at this time of year, catching a bug from someone is almost inevitable, especially when you’re always in the midst of a sea of students. Luckily, there are means of prevention, and if you have already caught something then there are ways around that too! In this week’s Friday Favourites list, I will show you my favourite remedies to help you survive the college plague.
1. Stay hydrated.
Drinking plenty of water is key to maintaining health and to get you out of a sick rut. If water isn’t doing it for you, try a throat coat tea. To get the most out of this tea, squeeze in some lemon juice, grate some ginger, and put some honey into it as well for a special immunization concoction!
Another homegrown tip I have learned from my parents is to make a shot mixed with honey, lemon juice, and minced garlic. It tastes awful, but it seriously does work.
2. Take a hot shower.
The steam from a shower will loosen up any congestion in your head and chest if you’re suffering from a cold. Another remedy to get those sinuses flowing is to use a Neti-pot – not the most glamorous way to clear up a cold, but it definitely helps.
3. Get a good sleep.
4. Have TONS of Vitamin C
Consuming vitamin C has been shown to shorten the duration of a cold or flu once it has begun. So if you feel a sickness coming on, have some kale, citrus fruits, or a supplement to help you out! Check out this orange creamsicle smoothie recipe for a burst of vitamin C
5. Gargle salt water
If you have a sore throat, gargling salt water will ease the pain. Salt reduces inflammation in your throat, and also flushes out bacteria and viruses. Prepare your mixture by adding half a tablespoon of salt to a cup of warm water.
6. Eat immunity-boosting foods.
If you want to avoid getting sick at all costs, then prevent it before it happens. Eating immunity-boosting foods such as garlic, yogurt, chicken soup, carrots, and yes even dark chocolate on a regular basis will keep you on a healthy track to avoid getting sick!
Stay healthy, Golden Hawks!