Oct 18, 2012

Colds and Flu

     We associate these viral diseases with winter or with a change of season, but you can catch a cold or the flu any time.

     What's the difference? Both cause respiratory distress, fever, coughing, headaches, sore throats, aching muscles and fatigue, but the flu (short for influenza) is usually more severe, faster developing and involves more of the body.

    Vomiting and diarrhea are common flu symptoms. If you're serious about staying well, it makes sense to improve your diet, reduce the stress in your life and avoid the foods, drugs and pollutants that suppress immunity. These include sugars, junk foods and cigarettes, as well as chemicals, pesticides and air pollutants. Left alone, most colds go away by themselves within a week, but with the help of certain herbs, your symptoms should disappear much faster.