Daily Dish
Fight the Common Cold
With winter in full swing, it's likely that you'll be hit with a cold in the coming months. If you start to sneeze and experience a stuffy or runny nose, a sore throat, and a mild cough, chances are you'll have contracted one of the 200-plus viruses that cause the common cold. And although following a healthy lifestyle like the South Beach Diet — which involves eating nutrient-dense foods and getting regular activity — does help bolster your immune system, everyone gets colds from time to time, and unfortunately, there is no magic cure.

One of the most simple and effective ways to prevent getting a cold is regular hand washing. Engage in this habit often — especially if you've been in contact with someone who is coughing or sneezing, or you've handled public objects (like shopping carts and handrails). If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. If you do get a cold, it will probably clear up in 7 to 10 days. In the meantime, you can take steps to manage your symptoms and make life a little more bearable.

Here are a few tips from Dr. Agatston on how to treat a cold, South Beach Diet–style:
Drink plenty of fluids. Water is the obvious choice, but other sugar-free beverages — and even a clear consommé or broth — will keep you hydrated, too. In addition, hot herbal tea may soothe a sore throat.
Choose a medication in pill or sugar-free liquid form. Pills do not contain a significant amount of added sugars, and sugar-free cough drops and cough syrup are available at most pharmacies. These products are commonly made for diabetics; if you can't find them, ask your pharmacist where they are stocked. (Keep in mind that they may contain sugar alcohols, which should be consumed in moderation.) Also, remember that antibiotics are not effective against the common cold — or any other virus.
Get plenty of rest. Allowing your body the proper amount of rest — seven to nine hours per night for most adults — will help ensure a speedy recovery. And unless your doctor says otherwise (or if you have a fever), stick with your usual exercise routine if you feel up to it — there's no medical reason to skip it.

Go to: www.southbeachdiet.com for more tips!