Kick The Common Cold Now!

By Cassandra Hope · On October 17, 2012

Forget what your mama told you! Some of those old fashioned remedies will only make it worse. Follow my advice and side-step sickness — or at least prevent those sniffles from getting worse.

Lay low. “Going to the gym will make me stronger and help me fight the bug.” Wrong! I advise my clients to take a day or two off until they feel back to themselves. Your body needs its strength to fight the virus, not repair muscles. Forget the guilt. You’ll be back in the gym in no time!
Skip the O.J. Stay away from orange juice and other fruit juices. O.J. is high in vitamin C but it’s also very high in sugar. Studies show ½ a teaspoon of sugar lowers immunity for 3 hours so stick to vegetables, tea and soup.
Mind the meds. Unless you’re in really bad shape, avoid over the counter cold medications. These acid forming drugs cause a lot of damage to the digestive system. They are also extremely hard on the liver. Your liver and gut play extremely important roles in keeping you strong and healthy. Be good to them. If you’re really congested, place a towel over your head and breathe in the steam from a pot of boiling water with diced onion, ginger and lime. Once you’re done, drink it. It will open you right up and help break your fever.
Eliminate foods high in acidity. Keep your body alkaline so it can fight the bug. Bacteria and viruses LOVE acidic environments so fill your belly with alkaline-forming green leafy vegetables and water with fresh squeezed lemon. Avoid fruits, tomatoes and meat until you’re well.
Sleep. Your body really needs rest to repair and fight the virus. A good night’s sleep is key to recovery so turn the phone off once you’re home. And remember, rest isn’t only when you’re sleeping. It’s important to give your nervous system a break any chance you get. Get some R&R on your subway ride or lunch break with a few deep breaths and a good book.

Being a hero can help win many battles but when it comes to fighting a cold, remember that killing it with kindness – to yourself – is the very best remedy.

Cassandra Hope

Cassandra Hope is a certified fitness and nutrition expert. She owns and operates her own private studio in the heart of Toronto. She specializes in interval training and weight loss. Cassandra works with a diverse range of clientele including Moms, pre-teens, weekend warriors and pro athletes. She also appears regularly on the Marilyn Dennis show and owns her own office wellness website.