Worst cold ever remedy: 6 tips and tricks to fight off the COVID-like illness

Though colds usually clear up on their own after a few days, pesky symptoms can be hard to deal with especially when you have work, school and other time consuming responsibilities to juggle.

So here are six tips and tricks to take into account when fighting off a cold in the coming months.

More garlic in your life

Don't let the bad breath scare you, this stuff is packed with health benefits. Garlic has been known for being able to naturally boost your immune system. Nutritionist Cassandra Barns explains:

Garlic is known for its protective properties and has been used for centuries to help with your immunity. Acting as a powerful immune supporter, garlic boosts natural killer-cell activity and increases the efficiency of antibody production.

Break a sweat!

Though this might sound like a no-brainer, many people actually avoid exercise when they have a cold as a way of saving the little energy they have left. Doing even just a small amount of exercise can help boost your immune system.

Exercise also reduces the impact of stress hormones which ultimately render our bodies less vulnerable to colds and flus.

Watch your alcohol

Consuming less alcohol, whether fighting off a cold or not, is generally a good idea as too much of it can actually have a dampening effect on one's immune system—much like sugar does.

Stress less

Keeping your stress levels at a minimum will make a big difference in your recovery time. Dr. Barns says:

Stress suppresses your immune system. Prioritise time for relaxation. This could be a formal relaxation practice such as meditation, or just time set aside every day to do something you find enjoyable or fun.

Sleep, sleep and sleep

If you are ill make sure you get proper rest. The less sleep you get the more likely you are to develop an illness as it means your immune system is probably running low.

Your body must recharge and the only way of doing so if by getting some proper shut-eye.

Eat the good stuff

Say hello to fruits, vegetables and all the omega 3s you can get your hands on. Dr Marilyn Glenville, a nutritionist and author of The Natural Health Bible for Women, said:

Nutrients are needed for every part of your immune system, including renewal, repair and defense against infection and illness, so its strength will depend on the quality of your diet.