7 common misconceptions about colds

Every adult has two to four colds per year. Just as well-known and widespread as this infection are various misconceptions about this topic. Here, I'll clear up the seven most common misconceptions and give you tips on how you can effectively strengthen your body against the threat of a cold.





Misconception No. 1: I have a cold because I stood in the cold for a long time.


Truth: The common cold is not caused by cold. It is caused by viruses and arises through infection. Nevertheless, it makes sense not to stand in the cold for too long, because this can weaken the immune system. This opens the door to infection.



Misconception #2: I can't get a cold because I've been vaccinated against flu.


Truth: Although cold viruses and flu viruses cause similar symptoms, they are different pathogens. Vaccination against flu activates the immune system against the flu, but a cold can still occur.



Misconception #3: As long as I feel fine, I can go around people. After all, it's not contagious.


Truth: A cold is a viral disease and is transmitted by contagion. Whether you get sick depends, of course, on the strength of your own immune system. Nevertheless, you can reduce the risk of infection by taking measures such as washing your hands, keeping your distance and ventilating well.



Misconception No. 4: I've already had a cold this year, I can't catch it again.


Truth: There are thousands of different cold viruses. That's why one cold does not protect you from catching another one.



Misconception No. 5: The doctor gives me antibiotics and I am quickly healthy again.


Truth: Antibiotics are ineffective against a cold. Colds are caused by viruses, antibiotics help against bacteria. They are sometimes prescribed anyway, because it is not uncommon for a second illness caused by bacteria to attack the lungs in parallel, for example.



Misconception No. 6: I put in an extra unit of sport and then I sweat out the cold.


Truth: Sport strengthens the organism, but the immune system is initially weakened immediately after the training session, which can make the infection even stronger. During an infection, sports are not recommended, because the pathogens can migrate and cause, for example, myocarditis. In the same way, by the way, a sauna session weakens the immune system for a short time due to the intense heat, which is why these should only be used for prevention.



Misconception No. 7: Vitamin C fights the common cold


Truth: Vitamin C does not actively fight the common cold. However, it is true that the body needs vitamin C for the immune system to function. In a deficiency, the defenses are weakened, which is why it makes sense to make sure you have a good supply of vitamin C every day, especially in the winter. By the way, red peppers, kohlrabi and broccoli are particularly rich in vitamin C.





Cornerstones for good health


Many of these myths persist. But it is much more important to know what you can do to prevent infection and how you can survive an infection if the worst comes to the worst.



It is important to ensure a sufficient supply of fluids on a permanent basis. You should drink 1.5 to 2 liters of unsweetened beverages per day to prevent your mucous membranes from drying out and to maintain their function as the first protective barrier against pathogens.

The dry heating air in winter is hard on the mucous membranes. It dries them out and makes them more susceptible. Therefore, you should air your rooms regularly and take a walk in nature as often as possible. This directly brings two more positive aspects, because in addition to 10,000 steps that you should move in everyday life, sunlight is also very important. Perfect are 15 - 20 minutes in the sun. A balanced diet provides the necessary energy. Especially fruits and vegetables should be integrated into the diet, because they provide vitamins as well as a lot of valuable secondary plant substances. It is particularly important to ensure a good supply of vitamin C, zinc, vitamin B12 and folate, as these are necessary for the function of the immune system.

The whole thing is rounded off by sufficient restful sleep. Even 3 hours of sleep deprivation weakens the immune system and increases susceptibility to infections.



If it is too late and the cold has already caught you, do your best to support your body in its fight against the viruses. Allow it to rest and give it the time to concentrate fully on the fight against the viruses. Medication from the doctor can only help to ease the symptoms, there is no real cure for the disease. But already a hot tea and a steaming inhalation bath with sea salt or essential oils can provide relief. With a little rest, a good and nutritious diet and an exciting book, this infection can also be fought within a few days.



Get through the winter healthy!



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