The common cold is one of the most irritating illnesses that strikes in the autumn. The change in season can often catch us off guard, and when we return to the office after our summer holidays our immune systems are often weaker, meaning germs can take hold. If you want to avoid getting the sniffles this September, discover our five top tips for how to prevent a cold this autumn.
1. Practice good hygiene at work and home
It might not be the sexiest tip but being cleanly will drastically decrease your chances of catching the dreaded common cold. Wash your hands often, especially after shaking hands or touching public areas like tube escalators or office door handles. Keep a tube of hand sanitiser or antibacterial wipes in your bag and use them when you can’t get to a sink. Be sure to avoid biting your nails too, many studies have proven harmful bacteria lies under our nails.
2. Make sure you get your eight hours
Sleep is your body’s time to reboot and recover so if you think you might be susceptible to getting a cold try and have a few good nights sleep. Your body needs all the energy it can get when it’s trying to fight off bacteria so while it might not be the most fun solution, a couple of quiet nights in could really benefit you.
3. Pack in the nutrients where you can
A healthy diet is important all year round, but when the weather starts turning colder we’re less inclined to eat fresh fruits and salad and instead turn to warming winter dishes like pies and puddings. Be sure to eat as balanced as possible, even if you feel a cold coming. That means carbs, proteins and plenty of vitamins and minerals. If you’re struggling consider taking a multivitamin to make sure your body’s getting all the nutrients it needs.
4. Drink as much water as you can
Dehydration makes any kind of ailment much worse so try and drink as many glasses of water as you can. Even if you’re feeling fine taking onboard more fluids will help keep everything in the body flowing, loosening any mucus that could be building in your body.
5. Get a flu jab and protect yourself
If you’re eligible for a free flu jab, take it. There’s also a lot to be said for hot water, lemon and honey if you start feeling a sore throat coming on. If your partner has a cold, try and keep contact to a minimum. Of course you may be on lemsip duty but make sure they’re the ones getting rid of the pile of tissues that builds up on the beside table.
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