Getting sick with a cold is not a pleasant experience. It can make you feel weak, miserable, and hinder your day-to-day activities. While there is no cure for the common cold, there are various remedies that people swear by, including drinking water. But does drinking water really help you get over a cold? Let’s find out.
The Importance of Staying Hydrated
Water is crucial for our overall health. Our body is composed of about 60% water, and it is essential for carrying out various bodily functions, including regulating body temperature, transporting nutrients, and flushing out toxins. When it comes to treating a cold, staying hydrated becomes even more crucial.
When we have a cold, our body produces more mucus to trap the virus and get it out of our system. This increase in mucus production can lead to dehydration, making us feel even worse. Drinking plenty of water helps thin out the mucus, making it easier to get rid of it. It also helps keep our body hydrated, which can help us feel better.
In addition to water, other fluids like herbal teas, fruit juices, and broths can also help with hydration and provide relief from cold symptoms. Avoid sugary drinks and alcohol as they can have a dehydrating effect on the body.
Flush Out Toxins
Drinking water not only helps with thinning the mucus but also helps flush out toxins from our body. When we are sick, our body is working hard to fight off the infection. This can lead to the buildup of toxins, which can make us feel even worse. By drinking water, we can help our body eliminate these toxins and ultimately feel better.
Some studies have shown that drinking water can also help boost our immune system by aiding in the production of lymph, which carries white blood cells that fight off infections.
How Much Water Should You Drink When You Have a Cold?
The recommended daily water intake for adults is about 8 glasses or 64 ounces of water. However, when we are sick, our body may require more water to help with hydration and flushing out toxins. It is recommended to drink water at regular intervals throughout the day and increase your intake if you feel dehydrated.
It is also essential to listen to your body and drink as much water as you need. If you are experiencing symptoms like fever, vomiting, or diarrhea, you may need to increase your fluid intake to prevent dehydration.
Other Ways to Relieve Cold Symptoms
While drinking water is essential when you have a cold, it is not the only remedy. There are other things you can do to relieve your symptoms and help you get over a cold faster. These include:
- Resting and getting plenty of sleep
- Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables
- Gargling with salt water to soothe a sore throat
- Using a humidifier to add moisture to the air and help with congestion
- Taking over-the-counter medication for symptom relief
Remember to always consult with your doctor before taking any medication, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
In Conclusion
While drinking water may not be a cure for the common cold, it is an important aspect of relieving symptoms and helping our body fight off the infection. Keep yourself hydrated, get plenty of rest, and try other remedies to get over a cold faster. And most importantly, always listen to your body and give it the time and care it needs to heal.
Disclaimer
The information in this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.
