The common cold is a common illness which can be caused by over 200 different kinds of viruses. It is highly contagious disease. Symptoms of common cold include sneezing, cough, nasal congestion or runny nose, and sore throat.

It can also be accompanied with a fever and headache. If you are afflicted with common cold it may make you feel very tired.

Taking medications to fight cold may help you at present but if it is not supplemented with nutritious diet then medication treatment can not give you protection against the future infections. You can build your immune system and also fight against the common cold by consuming a nutrient-rich healthy diet. If you are susceptible to getting colds you can benefit from the dietary suggestions on ‘diet for common cold’ given below.

Consume plenty of hot and cold fluids to expel the toxic substances out of your body. If you drink some hot fluids your throat will be warmed up and eventually prevent viral replication. Hot fluids also produce a mild decongestant effect on your body and help in giving you relief from nasal congestion.

Ginger tea possesses anti viral and heating effects on your body system hence it is considered very beneficial for common cold. Other fluids to be included in your diet are water, fresh fruit juice, caffeine-free tea, and broth based soups. But you should avoid taking fluids that possess anti diuretic properties such as caffeinated tea, soda drinks and coffee.

Eating spicy foods can help you in fighting against your common cold. Spicy foods that make your eyes watery are effective in breaking up your nasal congestion. Indian and Hot Mexican foods are regarded as superb congestion busters. Chicken soup is effective for cold.

Do not consume milk and other dairy products, ice cream and cream based soups because they are believed to increase phlegm production. Alcohol is dehydrating and depletes Vitamin C in your body. It also exerts extra strain on your liver. Hence avoid taking alcoholic drinks when you are afflicted with common cold.

You should also avoid tinned fruits, bananas, starchy foods, refined foods, flesh foods, pickles, fried foods, sugar, and indigestible foods such as pastries, red meat and cheese.

You can also take supplements to fulfill your recommended dietary allowances for B Vitamins, Vitamin A, Vitamin C and minerals like copper and zinc. Take proper rest to get well soon!