Down the Lemsip! Natural Cold Remedies

Image Name: Sip Honey and Lemon

We all know the chaos that comes with sniffle season, but the occasional cold doesn’t necessarily mean you have a weak immune system. In fact, it’s a natural part of life, especially during the colder months when germs tend to spread more easily. The way your body responds to these invaders, however, is what really counts. When a cold virus or bacteria enters your body, your immune system jumps into action, sending white blood cells and chemicals to begin the recovery process. A more accurate indicator of your immune health is how quickly you recover from feeling ill, rather than the fact that you got sick in the first place.

While it’s normal to catch a cold from time to time, there are things you can do to help your body bounce back faster. From natural remedies to dietary adjustments, here are the real secret weapons to fight a cold and get back to feeling your best.

Sip Honey and Lemon for a Natural Remedy
Honey and lemon have long been known as a soothing combination for a cold, and for good reason. A study from the University of Oxford found that high-quality honey can be more effective in treating respiratory tract infections than many common medications. Honey is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which are known for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. These help to calm cold symptoms and promote quicker healing.

However, not all honey is created equal. Standard “pure” honey, often mass-produced and highly processed, lacks many of the beneficial nutrients. Instead, opt for varieties like Manuka, raw, or wildflower honey, which are known for their higher nutrient content. For an even stronger effect, consider adding ginger and a sprinkle of ground turmeric to your honey and lemon mix. Both of these ingredients are potent anti-inflammatories, giving your body an extra boost when fighting off that nasty cold.

Swap Oranges for Strawberries to Boost Vitamin C
Vitamin C is often associated with immunity, and while orange juice is the go-to for many, it may not be the best option when you’re under the weather. Studies show that fruits like strawberries and kiwi actually contain more vitamin C than oranges. In fact, juicing fruits like oranges can strip them of fiber, turning them into a sugary beverage that may not be as healthy as you think.

A better option would be to blend up a protein smoothie with kiwi, strawberries, avocado, cucumber, and a scoop of protein powder. This smoothie provides vitamin C and fiber, which can help support your immune system without spiking your blood sugar levels. Plus, the protein keeps you feeling full and helps support your body’s healing process.

Megadose Vitamin C for Faster Relief
While dietary sources of vitamin C can help support your immune system, vitamin C supplements can provide an even greater boost. Some studies suggest that vitamin C supplements are more effective than popular over-the-counter cold medications like Lemsip. Rather than just masking symptoms, vitamin C helps your body fight the virus and recover more quickly.

A study conducted by researchers at the University of Helsinki found that taking 6g of vitamin C per day shortened cold symptoms by 17%, which is twice the benefit of a 3g dose. Keep in mind that vitamin C should be taken in high doses to be most effective, but it’s also important to note that this supplement can be contraindicated for certain medical conditions. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

Image Name: Probiotic to Support Gut Health

Load Up on Garlic for Its Immunity-Boosting Benefits
Garlic is not just great for flavor—it’s a powerful immunity booster. Research published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews shows that people who took a garlic supplement for 12 weeks reduced their chances of catching a cold by 60% compared to those who took a placebo. If you don’t want to take garlic supplements, you can still reap the benefits by adding garlic to your meals. Just make sure to crush or mince your garlic before using it, as this helps release allicin, a potent active ingredient responsible for many of garlic’s health benefits.

Suck a Zinc Lozenge to Shorten Cold Duration
Zinc has long been associated with cold relief, and there’s solid evidence supporting its use. A study published in the Journal of Family Practice found that zinc lozenges helped reduce both the duration and severity of a cold by as much as 48% when taken early. It’s best to take zinc in doses of 75mg or more for the most effective results. Zinc can sometimes cause stomach discomfort, so it’s wise to have a small snack or meal before taking a lozenge.

You can also add zinc-rich foods to your diet, such as pumpkin seeds and seafood, particularly oysters. Incorporating these into your meals can help provide ongoing immune support throughout the cold season.

Pop a Probiotic to Support Gut Health
Your gut plays a major role in immune health. In fact, around 70% of your immune cells are located in your gut, meaning poor digestive health can leave you more vulnerable to colds and other illnesses. Taking a probiotic supplement can help support the balance of good bacteria in your gut, which can in turn help boost your immune system. Look for probiotics that contain the strains Lactiplantibacillus plantarum HEAL9 and Lacticaseibacillus paracasei 8700:2, as these have shown positive effects in clinical trials as a preventative measure for colds.

Other Helpful Tips for Cold Relief
In addition to these remedies, there are other simple steps you can take to relieve cold symptoms and recover more quickly:

Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water, herbal teas, and clear broths to help thin mucus and keep your throat moist.
Get plenty of rest: Allow your body to recover by getting sufficient sleep. Your immune system works best when you’re well-rested.
Stay warm: Keeping your body at a comfortable temperature can help prevent chills and reduce the severity of symptoms.

Conclusion
While over-the-counter medications like Lemsip and First Defence may offer temporary relief, they often just mask the symptoms of a cold without addressing the underlying cause. Instead, focus on proven, natural remedies like honey and lemon, vitamin C, garlic, zinc, and probiotics to help your body fight off infections and recover more quickly. By supporting your immune system with these natural tools, you’ll be able to bounce back faster and enjoy better health year-round.