How to prevent the flu and the common cold?

Both the common cold and the seasonal flu are common conditions affecting people of all ages, genders and nationalities. [1] The end of the summer season and the arrival of autumn, with all the sudden change in weather conditions, is quite often accompanied by the appearance of symptoms that could mean that a respiratory infection has knocked on our door.

Cold Vs Flu: what’s the difference?

Colds and the flu are viral respiratory infections which, although they share some common symptoms, are caused by different viruses and vary in severity. [1]

People often confuse the above conditions, which are on the rise during the winter season and affect both adults and infants and children. Many, in fact, believe that they have the flu, while it is more likely that they are dealing with a cold.

The flu is caused by influenza viruses, mainly types A and B, while the common cold can be caused by 200 different viruses, with approximately 50% of them being rhinoviruses. [1]

The common cold does not cause significant discomfort and lasts for about a week. The average adult gets sick about 2 times a year, while children are more likely to get it 3-4 times a year. [1]

Influenza, on the other hand, is a potentially dangerous health condition and requires more attention. It is important to follow the preventive measures (e.g. regular hand washing) as well as the instructions given from the attending physician.

Common cold: symptoms

Cold symptoms usually last for a week to 10 days, but may last longer in certain groups of people (e.g. smokers). [2]

The most common symptoms involve the nose and mouth area and are as follows: [2]

• Runny nose
• Nasal congestion (stuffy nose)
• Sneezing
• Lacrimation (watery eyes)
• Mild cough
• Sore throat
• Mild headache
• Low grade fever
• Mild discomfort

Flu: symptoms

In flu, the symptoms appear more abruptly, compared to a cold, and they are also more intense. Sick people feel noticeably weakened and need rest. [3]

Usually, a severe cough is observed 24-48 hours after infection with the virus, which is important to be treated immediately, always in consultation with the attending physician.

Especially with regard to children, the elderly and high risk groups, it is important not to neglect the appropriate treatment. [3]

The main symptoms accompanying the flu are the following: [3]

• General weakness (exhaustion)
• Intense cough
• High fever
• Musculoskeletal pains
• Headache
• Chest pain

Prevention

Prevention is the best strategy to protect health, especially when it comes to infectious diseases. The transmission of flu and cold viruses is largely through hands and contact with frequently used objects such as mobile phones, doorknobs and switches.

It is of the utmost importance to follow some basic rules that protect against the uncontrolled spread of viruses, such as the following: [1]

• Avoid contact with sick people
• Regular hand washing with soap for at least ½ minute (under the nails too)
• Frequent ventilation of closed areas
• Use of hand sanitizers (when washing with soap and water is not possible)
• Disinfecting surfaces and objects that are touched by many people
• Avoid contact of hands with eyes-nose-mouth (unless they have been freshly washed)

Of course, it is very important to be in the best possible physical condition to protect yourself from flu and cold viruses.

To achieve this, the following are recommended: [1]

• Maintaining a balanced diet (rich in fruits and vegetables)
• Daily exercise (at least 30 minutes)
• Good quality sleep (at least 7 hours daily)
• Stress management (meditation, recreation)

All of the above play a key role in strengthening the body’s defenses. As far as nutritional support is concerned, there is also the possibility of additional support by taking special dietary supplements.

Vitamins for the immune system

Many ingredients have been shown to contribute to the prevention and treatment of diseases, by strengthening our defenses and protecting against oxidative damage.

• Maitake mushroom

Maitake is a type of mushroom widely used in Asian medicine and beyond. It is considered to strengthen the immune system, thanks to its special nutritional value. [4]

It contains beta-glucans, whose structure significantly supports the body’s defenses, combined with vitamins (C, D, B2, B3, etc.), minerals such as potassium and phosphorus, as well as amino acids. [4]

Its antioxidant and immunostimulating components make it a valuable ally, especially during periods of viral outbreaks. In addition, it seems that its consumption also helps in various diseases (e.g. diabetes, obesity). [4]

• Vitamin C

This water-soluble vitamin is widely known for its various actions in our body. It is proven that it supports the immune system and that it contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue, while it protects cells from oxidative stress, which can cause serious damage to human health.

• Elderberry (Sambucus)

Many have associated the elderberry with the treatment of colds. This purple berry is rich in nutrients and especially in antioxidant compounds (e.g. polyphenols).

It has been used for years as an herbal aid to optimally manage the early symptoms of the common cold, and it can also help prevent it.

• Pomegranate

Pomegranate stands out for its high content of powerful antioxidants, with ellagic acid as a typical example, whose importance for health is proven by more and more studies.

• Turmeric 

Turmeric (Curcuma longa), in addition to being an excellent spice, is also an important ally for our health. Its most important active substance is curcumin, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

It is also worth noting that turmeric has traditionally been used as a digestive aid, offering relief to many people with indigestion.

• Indian gooseberry or Amla

Indian gooseberry has a very strong antioxidant effect, contributing both to the effective protection of the body and to the slowing down of aging. It also provides an anti-inflammatory effect, while many believe that it significantly protects against diseases that come with old age (e.g. dementia, eye diseases). [5]

What is Nutramins Selfdefence?

All of the above ingredients, and more, are contained in the innovative formula of Selfdefence, a dietary supplement from Nutramins!

Its effective composition with ingredients that act as antioxidants and support the immune system is a real ally during flu and cold periods.

It contains two patented plant extracts (MaitakeGold® & Capros®), combined with orange, elderberry, pomegranate, turmeric and vitamin C.

• MaitakeGold® is not a common Maitake mushroom extract, but one that has the highest Maitake content, providing the optimal therapeutic effect.
• Capros® is a titrated extract of Indian Gooseberry, which has been proven to provide very strong antioxidant protection, thanks to its high content of water-soluble tannins.

The composition also contains orange extract, which is rich in hesperidin, a polyphenol with a significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect.

All in all, we understand that there are many nutrients and herbs in nature that can help us by strengthening our immune system, so that we can prevent or easily deal with a flu or the common cold!

Find at Vita4you.gr Nutramins Selfdefence supplement for your immune system!

Sources

1. The Common Cold and the Flu
2. Common cold: Symptoms and Causes
3. Influenza (flu): Symptoms and Causes
4. Maitake Mushroom: Health Benefits, Nutrition, and Uses
5. Health Benefits of Amla (Indian Gooseberry)