6 Strange Secrets To Avoiding Winter Colds

But perhaps sticking to these unusual health hacks could be the added boost your immune system needs.

1. Chewing Garlic
   Your friends won’t appreciate it, but if it prevents a runny nose or troublesome chesty cough, it’s worth it. Garlic contains antiviral properties (like alliin) which experts believe can relieve symptoms and ward off a cold in its early stages.
   But if the thought of snacking on this strong-smelling herb makes your stomach turn, you could try adding it to honey (which also has antiviral properties) or use it to flavour your evening meals.

2. Wet Socks

   After years of hearing ‘wet clothes cause a cold’ we’re now being told otherwise. Naturopathic professionals recommend the ‘wet sock treatment;’ a process that involves sleeping (that’s right, sleeping) in cold, wet socks to stimulate our immune system and fight infection.

   The National Health Advisory tells us that the wet sock approach “rallies the body’s defences, increases circulation and decreases congestion in the upper respiratory passages, head and throat.”

   If you’re brave enough to try this unconventional approach to cold busting, grab your best pair of thin white socks, dip them in a bowl of icy water and pop them on. It’s advised that you soak your feet in warm water for 10 minutes beforehand to ensure maximum effectiveness, and to also layer up with a thicker pair of socks once the wet socks have been applied.

3. Turn up the volume

   Reports claim that listening to relaxing music increases our level of important antibodies, including immunoglobulin A. This bug-busting protein strengthens the immune system and enhances our natural defences.

   For this to work, leave the Iron Maiden album to one side. It’s advised that you listen to soothing sounds, like stress-busting ‘environmental music’ or 30 minutes of jazz. Relax and unwind to your favourite tracks – mediation works wonders for your health.

4. Sex

   A little action between the sheets can do more than reduce stress, lower blood pressure and keep you looking trim. Like music, it also increases levels of immunoglobulin A and improves our immunity.

   However, don’t go overboard. According to the Daily Mail, too much sex can have the opposite effect on your immune system and even reduce levels of essential antibodies. They recommend that you limit your bedroom activity to once or twice a week if you want to show that winter cold who’s boss.

5. Mingle

   It’s party season, and soon enough you’ll be hitting the office Christmas party; the perfect place to pick up a cold. Yet according to experts, for our immune system to withstand the trials and tribulations of the common cold, we have to mingle.

   Wrap yourself up in cotton wool and your immune system will become weak and more susceptible to illness.  Socialising is a certified mood booster, so don’t be afraid to see friends, dance and live a little.

   Contrary to popular opinion, some believe that alcohol is beneficial too. Studies have shown that the occasional glass of wine can actually aid cardiovascular functioning rather than hinder it; helping to fight infection and keep colds away. It’s a long shot, but you never know!

6. Laugh

   They say laughter’s the best medicine, and this applies to fighting colds and flu too. Its boosts your immunity, lowers stress, decreases pain and encourages a positive outlook on life – the whole package.

   This feel good factor can be a miracle cure when you’re feeling down in the dumps; another excuse to call up close friends. And don’t forget, laughter’s contagious (in a good way), so whilst you’re improving your own health, you’re helping others to avoid those wretched winter bugs too – how lovely!

Bonus Secret: Gargle

If all else fails, do as the Japanese do and gargle cold water to avoid catching the sniffles.  A study conducted by Kyoto University’s Department of Public Health found that those who gargled water each day had fewer colds than those who didn’t. Many still swear by this oldwives tale, so don’t rule it out.