Myths about the Common Cold and How to Prevent a Cold
A few months ago I wrote an article about 10 ways to prevent a cold. Today I came across a list of 10 myths about the common cold.
Those myths don’t seem to conflict with the 10 ways I listed to prevent a cold, with two possible exceptions.
Weakened Immune System
My advice to keep the stress level low seems to conflict with myth #8 (weak immune system).
Way #3 – Keep the Stress Level Low
“Studies have shown that people experiencing emotional stress have weakened immune systems and are more likely to catch a cold. If you feel stressed out at work or at home, take a deep breath and calm down.”
Myth #8 – Weak Immune System
“A weakened immune system does not heighten the risks of catching a cold. Healthy and unhealthy people exhibit the same amount of susceptibility to colds in studies that have been done. Interestingly, the same study found that 95% of people who had the cold virus directly applied to their nasal membranes became infected, but only 75% of them exhibited any symptoms of the cold. This is called an “asymptomatic infection”.”
Vitamins and Minerals
My advice to take supplements seems to conflict with myth #7 (Vitamin C).
Way #5 – Take Supplements
“A healthy dose of Zinc, Goldenseal, Chamomile, Echinacea, garlic and Vitamins B, C and E can reduce your chance of catching a cold or reduce its impact. You don’t necessarily have to take tablets, some of these are also available in the form of herbal teas.”
Myth #7 – Vitamin C
“It is a myth that loads of vitamin c and zinc help to stave off (or cure) a cold. While it is often a good idea to take vitamin and mineral supplements, they have no effect on the cold virus. Once the cold hits, you are better off taking painkillers and waiting it out.”
My Advice
In both cases you can’t go wrong with my advice. It might not always keep off the cold, but in my opinion it certainly keeps you healthier.
You don’t necessarily have to follow my advice. Look at both lists and form your own opinion. Let me know what you think on this subject in the comments below.
Take care,
Gerber
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I once heard a doctor state that it’s a myth that getting too cold can make you catch a cold.
Pretty nice post. I just stumbled upon your blog and wanted to say
that I’ve really liked browsing your blog posts. In any case
I’ll be subscribing to your blog and I hope you post again soon!
Hi, Maria. Great to have you here!
@Paul Maurice Martin: Yes, I’ve also read that in the top 10 myths. It’s myth #3. I’ve also read about that in my psychology course. My psychology teacher said that more people catch a cold when it’s cold because everyone stays closer together, like when you’re waiting for a bus. Especially when it’s cold and it rains. That makes it easier for the cold to spread.
common cold is caused by virus so the logical thing to do is to boost our immune system by eating fruits that are high in Vitamin-C. this would reduce our chances of catching the common cold
the easiest way to prevent common cold is to take Vitamin-C from food supplements or natural fruit juice.
I usually take lots of Vitamin-C and Citrus Fruit to avoid getting the Common Cold. Exercise also helps a lot in boosting the immune system.
the best thing to do to avoid getting Common cold is to keep your immune system at optimum level by taking lots of vitamin-c and also avoiding stress.