Natural Cold Remedies that Stifle Seasonal Sniffles and Sneezes

Here we go again. Sniffles, sneezes, sore throats and coughs. It's that time of year as we head into the holiday season. But before you head to the pharmacy for medicated throat lozenges and cough drops, you can alleviate cold symptoms and even shorten the duration with a list of natural (drug-free) remedies.

· Vitamin C vs. Colds and Allergies. If you are prone to colds and allergies that lead to bronchitis, asthma and other respiratory problems, you may want to increase your intake of vitamin C, according to the editors of FC&A Medical Publishing, authors of the book Super Life, Super Health (2004, Frank W. Cawood and Associates, Inc.). They mention that some research shows that vitamin C "doesn't prevent colds, but it may relieve your symptoms and make you feel better faster," and they list some excellent dietary sources of vitamin C that include citrus fruits such as oranges and orange juice, grapefruits, tangerines and lemons, and other fruits and vegetables such as strawberries, peppers, kiwis, broccoli, tomatoes, potatoes, papayas, mangoes, guava, cantaloupe, kale, cabbage and spinach.

· Zap Colds With Zinc. The editors also discuss how the mineral zinc "may not be the miracle cure for the common cold, but it may provide quicker relief from the symptoms." Foods rich in zinc include seafood, red meat, poultry, whole grains, and legumes.

· Drink Plenty of Water. In Unleash The Inner Healing Power Of Foods (2003, Frank W. Cawood and Associates, Inc.), it mentions how drinking ample amounts of water can shorten a cold's duration. "Most importantly, drink plenty of water to replace the fluid you are losing. Water will also help keep your throat lining moist and supple so it won't crack and let viruses in. Drink eight glasses a day, enough to turn your urine almost clear."