With the change in weather a lot of us (me included) are getting run down and this is a short article that will arm you with the tools and know-how to get through it.
Number 1 – If you’re really ill it’s probably not the best idea to train.
Even if you do have a cold there are a few simple yet effective things you can do to reduce the time you are ill and actually fight off the infection as opposed to just masking symptoms ensuring your hard work at the gym isn’t in vein.
Increased Zinc consumption within 24 hours of symptoms has been shown to significantly reduce the time of your cold – foods such as Eggs, Spinach, Beef, Kidney beans and Garlic are all good sources.
Snack on yoghurt – rich in probiotics. Yoghurt helps reduce the body’s inflammatory response which reduces duration and symptoms alike, recommendations are whole natural yoghurt with less than 15g of sugar per 100g i.e. Greek yoghurt or Skyr (Icelandic yoghurt)
Eat Chicken soup – Your Mum was right. Chicken soup calms congestion and thins the mucus on your lungs Bonus: supermarket brands as well as homemade soup do the trick
Increase your Vitamin C consumption – Vitamin C aids in immune system function to help get rid of your rotten cold, foods such as strawberries, broccoli and citrus fruits are the best sources.
And lastly, my magic formula that silences your cough and acts as a significant symptom release!
Hot water, teaspoon of natural honey, large lemon slice and finely chopped chunk of ginger does the trick, drink every few hours and you’ll feel better in no time
Much love,
James Allen (BSc Exercise Specialist)
