It's something we all try to avoid: catching
a cold.
And even though there's no known cure for
it, researchers at the University of Alberta
in Canada think they've found the best way
to stay healthy.
"You know what they found?"
"What?"
"If you wash your hands, it is an extremely
effective way to stay healthy."
"How much did they pay for this thing?"
(Via WFLX)
Yes, after reviewing 67 randomized controlled
trials, researchers determined hand-washing
is the most effective way to prevent a cold,
Red Orbit reports.
That and taking zinc supplements.
Study leader Dr. Michael Allan says not to
take zinc on a regular basis, though, because
it can cause nausea.
One WLNY anchor has a tip to help with that.
(Via Flickr / Simon Berry)
"Maybe this is just me, the whole deal with
zinc, zinc clearly works, but it's a little
hard on your tummy.
So I like to take it with some food, you know,
if you're going to do the zinc."
(Via WLNY)
The study also mentioned probiotics showed
signs of preventing colds, but vitamin C,
not so much.
If you've already caught a cold, researchers
suggest acetaminophen, ibuprofen and decongestants
help with congestion, sore throats and fevers.
(Via Flickr / Derrick Coetzee, Flickr / Ovais
Shaikh)
But HealthDay News points out antihistamines
alone don't do much.
Combining those with decongestants and pain
relievers is more effective for those older
than 5.
The study was published in the Canadian Medical
Association Journal.
