5 Common Winter Health Problems And Their Solutions! Part 2 – *Catching A Virus*

While the cold weather doesn’t have a direct effect on your chances of contracting a virus, it does force people indoors with centralized heating. The close proximity of many human beings can allow viruses to spread easily.

Solutions:

1. Wash your hands

Dr Nicola Goddard, clinical scientist at the Public Health Laboratory Service, says: ‘Although most infections are mainly carried in the air and transmitted by the “aerosol” effect when someone sneezes, germs can be transmitted by physical contact and enter the body when infected hands touch vulnerable parts like our eyes, mouths and noses.

2. Zinc, Garlic, and Vitamin C

The mineral zinc is essential to help fight colds and provide a boost to a flagging immune system. Good food sources include meat, oysters, eggs, seafood, tofu, black- eyed peas and wheat germ.

Vitamin C also helps to boost up your immune system. Try eating bell peppers, strawberries, oranges, broccoli, tomatoes, or kiwi to get your dose of Vitamin C!

Garlic helps ease chest complaints, and small amounts taken daily may also reduce the frequency of colds and flu.

3. Drink Plenty

Doctors recommend we drink about eight glasses of water a day to stay healthy. Rehydration expert Dr Susan Shirreffs says: ‘Water helps the kidneys function properly and flushes out the toxins that accumulate in our bodies.’

If you have a cold, being dehydrated makes your mucus drier and thicker and less able to cope against invading bacteria and viruses. If you’ve already caught a cold, drinking plenty of fluids will help flush out the infection.

Source: Ways To Avoid Cold And Flu

Hint for Part 3: the cold dry winter air may cause your chest to be tight and may make it hard for a person to breathe. What do you think is next?!

Is Your Life in “Mint” Condition?

Ever since I went to this diner for breakfast with my husband in the Bronx (forgot the name) and I decided to order peppermint tea, I’ve been drinking it on the regular ever since!

I’ve been loving the  Tazo Refresh Mint Tea! It has a nice smooth Peppermint taste that is not overpowering and very enjoyable! I usually add a spoonful of honey for a little sweetness!  It taste so good! Yum!

Anyhoo, here are 9 Benefits of Peppermint Tea!

1. Fever Reducer

Since menthol is the main component of Peppermint tea, you may sweat a little externally while being cooled down internally by the menthol. This is said to “break” the fever and reduce inflammation and discomfort.

2. Good for Digestion

PT (Peppermint tea) is considered a carminative, which means that it helps to move gas through the body as it accumulates. PT also stimulates bile flow to promote healthy bowel movements. 

3. and 4.  Nausea and Vomiting

PT is an antispasmodic so it reduces the chances of vomiting and nausea. It also reduces stomachaches and queasiness if you are experiencing motion sickness.

5. Respiratory Issues

Since PT is an antispasmodic, it also helps with that sensation that makes you want to cough. It relaxes the muscles of the throats and chest. 

6. Immune System

PT has antibacterial properties which helps reduce the chances of getting sick. 

7. Bad Breath

The antibacterial elements helps kill germs that lead to bad breath and the menthol will leave your breath smelling real nice! 

8. Weight Loss

The smell of peppermint can help eliminate your appetite and reduce overeating. 

9. Stress Levels

The menthol does a good job at relieving mental stress. The anti inflammatory element can lower blood pressure and body temperature which allows you to relax!

CAUTION: 

Despite the benefits of Peppermint Tea, there may be some side effects. Menthol could possibly cause heartburn or may be an allergen for some people. The reactions, if any, are said to be mild, but double check with your doctor about any allergies you may have before consuming. 

Happy Tea Sipping! =)



Source: Benefits of Peppermint Tea

Photo by: Just Brittany Moments