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Keep boomerang virus at bay
Advice to beat this winter's persistent coughs and colds
This winter has brought a number of virulent viruses that are causing
long-term cold symptoms and, in particular, nasty coughs.
Some doctors are calling it the 'boomerang' virus for its ability to keep resurging.
Antibiotics are not effective in dealing with viruses, so trying natural alternatives is a better solution.
Taking positive action to keep your immune system working to its optimum will reduce the number of colds and infections you suffer, and help keep any residual viruses out of the body.
Consider:
Diet – eat a varied, wholesome, fresh diet
containing at least five portions of fruit and veg daily, which contain protective anti-oxidant vitamins and minerals, and drink up to eight glasses of water daily to encourage detoxification.
Avoid depressors of the immune system, such as cigarettes, alcohol, fried and fatty foods and excess coffee.
Keep stress to a minimum and counter the effects of stress with relaxing activity such as hobbies, yoga, exercise and massage or
reflexology.
Four exercise sessions a week are beneficial but any more or very strenuous activity may actually lower immunity.
Ensure restful, adequate sleep for an average seven to eight hours daily to give your body time to recover, repair and rest.
Keep body weight within recommended range, as being seriously overweight reduces your production of antibodies and white blood cells that fight infection.
Natural aids
Garlic is well renowned and documented for its antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties. Add to cooking, eat raw or buy in supplement form.
Echinacea is a herbal supplement known for boosting the immune system and detoxifying the blood. Take for up to six weeks at a time or at the first sign of colds, flu, skin infection, sore throats, sinusitis or bronchitis.
Tea tree oil is useful for fungal infections, virus and bacteria. Do not take internally. Add two drops to a tissue to inhale or four drops to a bath. You can also add two drops to a glass of warm water and use as a gargle for throat or mouth infection.
Take probiotics, either as a supplement or in live yogurts, to boost immunity.
Grapefruit seed extract is an effective antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral agent, particularly effective for stomach bugs,
diarrhoea and ear or throat infections.
This article does not replace medical advice – always seek professional guidance when ill.
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Weather for Bedford
Tuesday 14 February 2012
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 5 C to 8 C
Wind Speed: 20 mph
Wind direction: North west
Tomorrow
Cloudy
Temperature: 4 C to 10 C
Wind Speed: 20 mph
Wind direction: North west
